Sunday, October 30, 2011

Africa Tangier Morocco - The Culture Experience

This was a very interesting experience. We travelled across the Atlantic Ocean from Tarifa the most southern tip of Europe. Our destination via hoover craft was Tangier Morocco in the country of Africa. It was an adventure we will not forget in a hurry and a real culture experience for Aaron.
Reaching the port of Tangier the poverty within this country hit home very quickly. Armed guards maned the ports as men in their 20,s tried to escape over the border to get into Europe.
It was quite sad really.

During our time in Morocco we visited quite a few places.
Firstly we visited the caves of Hercules on the shores of the Atlantic. The cave was an amazing place with a lovely alcove looking out to the pounding waves of the ocean as it crashed against the rocks outside. Within the cave were little stalls were locals could sell their Worth's. The history of the cave goes back thousands of years but one recent tale was of Def Leppard the rock band using the cave for a concert and for a world record of playing in so many different countries in so many days.
Our next visit was a typical Moroccan experience. It was here Aaron got to ride on a camel totally fantastic. We also sat down to a typical Moroccan lunch of firstly vegetable soup then couscous with vegetables and lemon chicken. For afters we had Moroccan cookies. Washed down with red wine and water. It was lovely we even got to sit down around a typical Moroccan table.
We also were lucky enough to watch a typical traditional dress horsemanship display. The Arabian Fantasia show also showed us typical local entertainment including Belly dancing and local music. It was a truly wonderful experience of a very different culture.
Another trip took us to the town. We had a tour through the Medina ( old part of the town ) and also the souk ( market ). The tour guide pointed out many places of history. It was fascinating. It was here though the poverty within the country became very clear. Beggars sat on steps within the streets asking for money. Also we were surrounded by street hawkers offering their wears for sale, practically begging us to buy something. It was quite upsetting and scary. I kept a close eye on my bag as did Simon.
All in all though it was a brilliant experience visiting Morocco it just shows how lucky we are in the UK to be able to access the things we need and life's luxuries. It was a wonderful experience for us all especially Aaron. Look out for our up and coming next adventures.































































































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