Morocco is a North African country that borders Mauritania to the south, Algeria to the east and the Spanish North African territories of Melilla and Ceuta on the Mediterranean coast in the north. The country has a coastline on both the Mediterranean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean that sparkles beside red sands. If you look across the land to the distant horizon you will see the towering Atlas mountains in the distance and wonderful islamic minarets, and townships influenced by arabs, romans and europeans who have travelled here for hundreds of years.
Morocco has been independent throughout much of it's history but has remained open to influence and ideas from beyond it's borders. Walk a little way in a Moroccan town and you may hear spoken french, arabic or any of a dozen or more languages and local dialects. You will see monuments from various points in history and from many different cultural sources. Morocco is a kaleidoscope of Africa, Arabia and the Mediterranean, thrilling visitors with its atmosphere. Royal palaces, green oases and the amazing hospitality of its inhabitants and just some of the highlights of a visit to Morocco. Modern Morocco has many ways to spend the days from relaxing in guest houses, shopping for distinctive hand made trinkets or trekking to distant and traditional Berber villages where the lifestyle tells of a simpler time. Wherever you go you will always find Moroccans who will go out of their way to help you and welcome you.
Morocco gained its independence from France in 1956 and virtually annexed Western Sahara in the late 1970’s. Political reforms in the 1990’s resulted in the establishment of a bicameral legislature in 1997 however the king still possesses the actual political power.
There is no shortage of great attractions for any tourist in Morocco with its strong sense of culture and long and colourful history. From the cool, blue water lapping over the sandy beaches to the hot white sands of the desert, the greens of the valleys to the whites of the snow-capped Atlas Mountains, the country is romantic and mysterious making this one of the most popular tourist destinations in Africa.
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