Morocco is a gateway to Africa, and a country of
dazzling diversity. From Saharan dunes to the peaks of the High Atlas, rugged
coastlines, waterfalls, caves in forested hills, and the mighty desert, Morocco
could have been tailor-made for travellers.
Just
a few hours from main European cities, Morocco has everything to overwhelm you
with the amazing colours, smells and sounds of Islamic Africa. Imagine bustling
souqs and spice markets, stunning mosques, white-washed sea side towns and
medieval city centres, no-one ever has to be bored in this beautiful country.
The local currency is the Moroccan Dirham
and in the big cities there is often an ATM near the main gates, and even one
or two inside the large souqs. Modern Standard Arabic is the first official
language, and is frequently used in administrative offices etc. However, the
vernacular is Moroccan Arabic. As far as the climate goes, it is better to
visit the south – or at least the desert routes – outside midsummer, when for
most of the day it’s far too hot for casual exploration. July and August can be
wonderful on the coast, however, while in the mountains there are no set rules.