Tangier
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Get in
For most visitors arriving by ferry from Spain, Tangier is their first taste of Morocco. Unfortunately, the experience is often embittered by the hordes of touts and faux guides that prey on disoriented new arrivals, determined to part them and their precious money.
The guides have mostly been banned from the port area but you will still find a few. The area immediately outside the port is full of them but no different to other touristic areas like Ouarazatte or Marrakech
By plane
Tangier Boukhalef Souahel Airport (TNG) is located 12km (7.5 miles) from the city (travel time about 20 minutes). Taxi 100 Dh (10€) to Tangier (150 Dh (15€) at night)
By train
ONCF opened a new train station, Tanger Ville, in 2003, which is now the end of the line. While it's closer to the city center than Tanger Morora, the original end-of-the-line, it's still quite a long walk so take a petit taxi for 15dhs or so.
Europe and North America (New York and Montreal) serve Morocco Rail The country has an excellent railway system with 1,893km (1,176mi) of track and a fine intercity passenger service utilizing 669,637 passenger cars. Overnight train services running throughout Europe can connect with Morocco.
By car
When coming into Tangier by car, be careful of hustlers on motorbikes who will ride alongside you and attempt all manner of dodginess.
By bus
Tangier has two long distance bus stations. The first, at the CTM offices near the port, is the arrival point of most CTM buses. Some other CTM buses, and those from other companies, arrive at the station on Place Jamia el-Arabia.
By boat
The port is located beside the medina, and a few hundred metres from the ville nouvelle. Although the government has been partially successful in reducing the number of touts, money changers, taxi drivers and faux guides hassling people arriving by boat, expect to be mobbed. Look like you know where you're going, politely refuse any offers of help, or if you really feel like you need to escape jump in a taxi to escape the throng; just make sure that the taxi driver is no worse than the mob you are trying to escape.
Get around
Walking is perhaps the best way to see the relatively compact Tangier. Petit taxis are common, but if it is unmetered make sure you agree on a price first.
See
The Tangier American Legation Museum (TALM), a thriving cultural center, museum, conference center and library in the heart of the old medina in Tangier, is housed in the only historic landmark of the Unted States located abroad. The museum exhibts a large collection of art and historical items. It also houses the Paul Bowles Museum dedicated to the writer and composer who lived most of his adult life in Tangier.
You can see most of the main sights of Tangier in a day, but you will need a longer time to properly absorb the ambience of the place and to make at least one excursion. Steep stairways and streets, as well as wide boulevards, make it a city ideal for strolling. Breathtaking views over the Straits of Gibraltar to Spain are one of the many attractions.
Sights and events: You can see most of the main sights of Tangier in a day, but you will need a longer time to properly absorb the ambience of the place and to make at least one excursion. Steep stairways and streets, as well as wide boulevards, make it a city ideal for strolling. Breathtaking views over the Straits of Gibraltar to Spain are one of the many attractions.
The medina: A dense maze of houses, shops and narrow, steep streets, the medina is centred on the Petit Socco (The Small Souk) - a charming square lined with hotels, restaurants and cafés. Sampling a mint tea in one of these cafés is another highlight of Tangier.
The Grand Socco: (The Big Souk) is where the medina begins - stalls and shops, vibrant with the bright colours of the fruit, pottery and cloth that they display for sale.
The Kasbah, constructed on the highest point of the medina, was fortified in Roman days and was the traditional residence of sultans.
The Dar-el-Makhzen palace was founded in the 17th century. Its marble arches and cedar ceilings now house the Museum of Moroccan Art, the Museum of Antiquities and the Musée de la Kasbah (Kasbah Museum). The Sultan’s gardens are also well worth a visit.
Sidi Bou Abid mosque - don’t miss the tiled minaret. The Forbes Museum (owned by American tycoon Malcolm Forbes) - see 115,000 lead soldiers re-enact three of the major battles of history - Waterloo, the Somme and the battle of the Three Kings. The museum also has magnificent gardens.
The Mendoubia gardens - find a quiet place to relax in the shade of the centuries-old fig and dragon trees.
Excursions: You can reach Cap Malabata, 6 miles (10km) east of Tangier, by a magnificent road that winds its way up through the hills and along a succession of sandy creeks and beaches. A visit in the morning to see the sunrise is a must.
Cap Spartel is the northwest extremity of Africa’s Atlantic coast. It is a dramatic nine-mile (14km) drive west from Tangier. The area is a favourite destination for bird watchers. The sunsets from this vantage point are breathtaking.
The Caves of Hercules are natural limestone formations that were extended by quarrying for millstones until the 1920s. Tangier’s rich and famous once partied here. There is a breathtaking view of the ocean through an Africa-shaped window.
The four seaside resorts of Restinga Smir, M’Diq, Cabo Negro and Martil have beautiful sandy beaches, washed by the translucent waters of the Mediterranean.
Swimming, sailing, fishing and golfing are available at these resorts. Sample the catch of the day in the local restaurants, or stroll in the cool evening air and admire the yachts in the cosmopolitan ports of Marina-Smir or Kabila Marina.
Ancient Lixus is the second most important Roman site in Morocco after Volubilis. The site is a short distance from Tangier, near Larache, and can be visited in a day. In the baths at Lixus, you can see the ‘ocean god’, 60m2 of superb mosaics showing the austere and majestic features of Neptune, surrounded by shellfish motifs.
Charif is a guide for the likes of Maupintour and university alumni groups. He is very efficient and well organized, and Manages to locate and stop at a “necessary”, no matter how rural the area. his e.mail. [ viptour@gmail.com ]
Do
Ramadan, the Month of Fasting: Ramadan is a special month of the year for over one billion Muslims throughout the world. It is a time for inner reflection, devotion to God, and self-control. Muslims think of it as a kind of tune-up for their spiritual lives. There are as many meanings of Ramadan as there are Muslims. The third "pillar" or religious obligation of Islam fasting has many special benefits. Among these, the most important is that it is a means of learning self-control. Due to the lack of preoccupation with the satisfaction of bodily appetites during the daylight hours of fasting, a measure of ascendancy is given to one's spiritual nature, which becomes a means of coming closer to God. Ramadan is also a time of intensive worship, reading of the Qur'an, giving charity, purifying one's behavior, and doing good deeds. For Muslims (Submitters), Ramadan is not merely a holiday, but an opportunity to gain by giving up, to prosper by going without and to grow stronger by enduring weakness. As a secondary goal, fasting is a way of experiencing hunger and developing sympathy for the less fortunate, and learning to thankfulness and appreciation for all of God's bounties. Fasting is also beneficial to the health and provides a break in the cycle of rigid habits or overindulgence. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. The Islamic calendar is a lunar calendar. While many Muslim sects insist on the physical sighting of the moon, there is no such requirement in the Quran, the Muslims's holy book. The much-anticipated start of the month can now be based on the very accurate astronomical calculations. The end of the month is marked by the celebration of 'Eid-ul-Fitr, a traditional practice not a religious one.
The daily period of fasting starts at the breaking of dawn and ends at the setting of the sun. In between -- that is, during the daylight hours -- Muslims totally abstain from food, drink, smoking, and sex. The usual practice is to have a pre-fast meal (suhoor) before dawn and a post-fast meal (iftar) after sunset.
The Islamic lunar calendar, being 11 to 12 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar, migrates throughout the seasons. Thus, if Ramadan begins on January 20 one year, next year it will begin on January 9. In this way, the length of the day, and thus the fasting period, varies in length from place to place over the years. Every Muslim, no matter where he or she lives, will see an average Ramadan day of the approximately 13.5 hours. Muslims use many phrases in various languages to congratulate one another for the completion of the obligation of fasting and the 'Eid-ul-Fitr festival.
Learn
Morocco, a vast stretch of land situated at the extreme west of the Maghreb Desert, owes its uniqueness to its unusual geographical situation. The plains, the mountains, the deserts, and a coastline which borders both the Atlantic and the Mediterranean have fortunately been inhabited by people who have taken great pride in their particular region.
The geographical diversity of the area attracted the great conquerors, and the country became a melting pot of civilizations. Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, Andalusians and Africans all brought inestimable wealth to Morocco, both material and spiritual. Their legacy continues to contribute to the beauty and success of the region today. Tangier is set between two worlds, belonging fully to neither, it can be compared to a doorway opening onto all dreams and possibilities.
This strategic location, however, has been coveted by European powers through the years. As a result, in 1923 Tangier became an international zone governed by a dozen diplomats along with a representative of the Sultan. Tangier prospered rapidly. Many adventurers, millionaires and artists settled there, as did modern "pirates" operating shadier enterprises. Overlooking the Straits of Gibraltar with a view of Spain's southern coast, Tangier is set upon a spectacular bay and has been a magnet for travelers for centuries. Since independence, tourism has flourished. Attracted to the beauty of the setting and the mildness of the climate, wealthy Moroccans still chose Tangier as their holiday resort.
Today the city is primarily a shipping center. It is frequently on the itinerary of day-tripping tourists on package tours of Spain. Open-air markets throughout Morocco are piled high with rugs, woodwork, and jewelry. The country's main product is leather, which is said to be the softest in the world. Tangier has been called the Gateway to Morocco and was designated as the country's summer capital by King Hassan II. In Tangier, a city of contrasts, the East comes together with the West in a colorful medley. Tangier is the ideal starting point for the traveler to Africa. An easy hop from Europe, it is a friendly, hectic and stimulating place to explore.
Population: 554,000 (est.) Full country name: Kingdom of Morocco Capital city: Rabat People: 55% Arab, 44% Berber, 0.7% other Languages: Arabic (officially) with Berber dialects, as well as French, Spanish and English. Religion: 98% Muslim, 1% Christian, 1% Jewish Government: Constitutional monarchy King: King Mohammed VI Prime Minister: Abderrahmane El Youssoufi Major industries: Agriculture, manufacturing, fishing, tourism Major trading partners: EU, US, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Brazil Location: On the southern side of the western approaches to the Strait of Gibraltar. Port of Tangier: Situated in the Bay of Tangier about 7 n mi (13 km) east of Cape Spartel on the northern coast of Morocco. The port is protected by surrounding topography from south, southwest, east and west winds while a breakwater/passenger ship quay 3,970 ft. long shelters the port from the major effects of northwesterly winds. Time Zone: Greenwich Mean Time is observed throughout the year: Time in Tangier is 5 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time in New York. (6 hours ahead of central time in Chicago, etc.) Daylight Saving time is not observed. Tours: Hiking in the desert, travel to seaside resorts, trekking, camel back rides, camping in the Sahara are some of the many tour offerings. Check with your hotel. International Dialing Code: The city code is 09. When calling Tangier from another country, dial the international dialing code of that country, plus 212 + 9 + 6 digit number. Emergency: Call 19 to reach the police. Accessing email and the internet: El Cafe de Internet Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes 656 Tel.(+343) 4121915 / or 93 302 1154 Cyber Cafés and boutiques offering access to the internet are available in various parts of the city. Check with your hotel for addresses. Major hotels offer access also. Currency: The Moroccan currency is the dirham (DH). There are 200 DH, 100DH, 50DH, 20DH, and 10DH bills, and 10DH, and 5DH coins. Also there are smaller denominations of coins. The easiest method of securing cash at the best exchange rate is to make withdrawals using a US credit card from the ATM machines found at the major banks and stores. As in the U.S., some banks charge a fee and a transaction tax, so check with the banks to find the best value. Also check before inserting your card, as some machines accept only Moroccan credit cards. Passport: A full passport with at least 6 months validity is required. No visa is necessary for US citizens. Other travelers should check with the Moroccan consulate in their countries. Water: Drink only bottled or mineral water, and CONSUME NO ICE. Average Temperatures (In Fahrenheit):
High Low January - March 68F 46F April - June 78F 52F July - September 83F 62F October - December 77F 48F
Differences between day and night temperatures can be extreme, even in summer. It is advisable to take warm clothing. Be sure to take sunscreen for use during the day. National Holidays: Jan. 1 New Year's Day January 11 Declaration of Independence or National Day May 1 Labor Day May 23 National Day July 30 Feast of the Throne August 14 Oath of Allegiance of Oued ed-Dahab August 20 Festival of the Revolution, the King and the People August 21 Youth Day November 6 Green march Day November The month of Ramadan will last from November 16- December 14 of the year 2001 (varies from year to year according to Muslim calendar). December 6 Constitution Day November 18 Independence Day Note: During the month of Ramadan most bars and restaurants are closed during the day. Electricity: 110-V and 220-V plugs exist side by side in Tangier. Check with your hotel. How to get around: Bus Buses that operate in the city do not have air conditioning. City owned buses are often over crowded. There is no network map. There are bus signs in Arabic here and there. (It is best to use buses only if you already know the city). CTM (Compaigne des Transportes du Moroc) CTM, headquartered in Casablanca, owns a newer fleet of buses which are air conditioned and carry up to 56 passengers. They cover most of Morocco. tel. 02-45 80 00. Cars Morocco has one of the best road networks in Africa. There are also gas stations and repair shops conveniently located. Avoid driving at night. A car can often be included in one's airfare price. Be sure the price includes insurance and government tax. Road signs are in French and in Arabic. Ferries Boats or hovercraft cross from France (Sète) and Spain (Algeciras and Almeria) and Gibralter. Taxis Grand Taxis are collective, interurban "big" vehicles. Negotiate the fare before boarding. They usually wait until they are full before departing. Petits taxis are individual small taxis that can be found in every town. They are cheap and have a meter. Be sure the driver starts it as you start your journey, and that is set to the base rate. Air Royal Air Maroc is the national air carrier and provides domestic and international service. Many other foreign airlines serve Morocco, including Air France, British Airways and Saudia. Scheduled flights from all major cities in the Middle East,
Buy
Mobile "jawal" telephones: can be purchased in Tangier from Moroc Télécom (prepaid with a rechargeable card containing 30 min. of outgoing and 30 min. of incoming calls.
Eat
Budget
Mid-range
Star of India Sable D'or situated on Ave des FAR (on the beachfront opposite cafe Tropicana)- serving excellent authentic Indian food. If you like Kebabs, Curries and the like then this is the place. Extensive menu and wine list. There are many vegetarian dishes. You can eat outside in the garden overlooking the beach or inside the restaurant. There is a adjoining but separate bar/disco which opens around 11 pm until late.
The kitchens of Morocco combine European infusion, Arab trade and age-old custom. These elements form a cuisine that reflects a vibrant and lively culture. The essence of Moroccan food -- from spiced couscous to sweet mint tea -- is captured and celebrated in this comprehensive guide. Whether you are travelling the country or expanding your own pantry, Morocco's true culinary spirit is here for the tasting.
-- the essential guide to the culture of eating & drinking in Morocco -- exploring cookery as a form of expression for Moroccan women -- the definitive culinary dictionary, quick-reference glossary and useful phrases for every food & drink occasion -- tantalising photography & recipes ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Harira - Ramadam Soup Celebrate the end of fasting with this delicious beany soup
Chicken Tagine with Olives and Preserved Lemons What dish could more perfectly reflect the staples and tastes of Morocco?
Preserved Lemons A time old technique of salting lemons to preserve them for up to 4 years
Pastilla with Bananas and Apples A delicious pastry desert with honey, almonds and fresh fruit
Couscous with Vegetables Delicious and simple dish, making use of roasted peppers, aubergine and tomato to make a nutritious vegetarian dish.
Fish Tagine Bass, prawns, calamari and mullet create a delicious seafood melee typical of Morocco's seaside towns.
Splurge
Drink
Sable D'or Bar situated on the beach (Avenue des FAR) opposite Hotel Solazure - this is a great Bar with live Moroccan music and dancing. Its popular with locals as well as foreigners. There is an Indian restaurant in the same complex and a garden to enjoy a few afternoon beers.....
Sleep
Budget
Mid-range
Hotel Continental 36 Rue Dar El Baroud Tel: 039-931024 This hotel, situated in the medina and within easy reach of the port, is very much in the 'former glory' category, with past guests including Degas, Churchill, Kerouac and friends. Definitely spend extra for a nicer room if given the opportunity, it is not a lot extra and the best rooms were absolutely palatial. Get one facing the port if you can. It has a really nice terrace out front where you can enjoy mint tea with spectacular views of the harbour. Make sure not to confuse it with the Intercontinental which is a more modern hotel and not as central. The price of 365-420 dirhams for a double translates to around €33-38.
Hotel Sherezade, Ave des FAR - next to Ramada. On the beachfront, clean and comfortable, cheap and cheerful (30-35€)
Hotel Solazure, Ave des FAR - On the beachfront but caters mostly to package tourists. Poor service and not particularly clean or cheap. About 50-60€
Splurge
Hotel Ramada on beachfront - excellent 4 star hotel. Modern and reasonably priced with sea facing rooms (about 80-100€). Good service.
Hotel Movenpick in Malabata - Expensive but brand new modern luxury hotel with an adjoining Casino. Typical 5 star luxury hotel - the best in Tangier (about 160-180€)
Hotel El Minzah near the Medina - centrally located but can be noisy. Decor is traditional Morroccan. This used to be the best hotel in Tangier but it now has a rival.
Hotel Omnia el Puerto opposite Ramada - not on the beachfront but is clean and comfortable 4 star hotel. Inconsistent service (about 70-80€)
Hotel Intercontinental (not the same as the international chain - and like all pretenders; a cheap imitation). This is situated in a remote suburb of Tangier where you have to take a Taxi to go anywhere. About 40-50€
Stay safe
Tangier is a relatively Rich city, and the City-Hall is Working to Make Tangier the Safest City in Morocco. Although you shouldn't face any major trouble, women may want to avoid walking alone at night, and consider giving the medina a wide berth during the early hours of the morning.
Cope
Assume that anyone that speaks English and approaches you to practise their English, translate a document, etc, is a faux guide who will ultimately latch on to you for the day. Do not engage in lengthy conversation, but smile and politely refuse offers of help. If a persistent local won't take no for an answer, make a beeline for the nearest police station, or tell him you're going to. If it all gets too much, find a tea shop and relax for a while.
On the other hand, the best way to avoid getting approached by strangers at every street corner is to find a local who can show you around and keep other guides at bay. Many will try to drag you into overpriced shops or restaurants but there are also honest people making a living on showing tourists around. They will expect a modest payment for their services. Be careful and trust your instincts as for whom to trust.
Get out
You can buy train, bus and ferry tickets at the stations and ports listed above, although you may find it easier to purchase ferry tickets from travel agents rather than face the gauntlet of touts at the port. You can also flag grand taxis at the major bus stations and ferry port.
External links
- http://www.tangiertour.tk a Web site for a National Tour Manager.
- http://www.legation.org Web site for this museum, cultural center, and library. It is located in the old medina of Tangier in a building that was an American diplomatic presence in Morocco for more than 150 years.