The City of Tangier

Tangier has long been romanticized by artists, Beat poets, and writers who have arrived
at its busy shores seeking adventure. Tangier is the gateway to Africa for many travelers.
Cruise ships often dock there on their way from the Atlantic to Mediterranean, and
travelers in Europe find it easy to take a ferry to Spain from the port of Tangier.

What to See in Tangier
Tangier doesn't have quite the offbeat charm it did in the 1940's and 1950's when you
could rub shoulders with the likes of Truman Capote, Paul Bowles and Tennessee
Williams, but if you give it some time, it will grow on you. Tangier is an interesting,
cosmopolitan mix of African and European influences. It's a port city and port cities are
always rough around the edges. Tangier is not very pleasant at night.
As with many cities in Morocco, there's an old town (Medina) and a new town (Ville
Nouvelle).

The Medina -- Tangier's Medina (old-walled city) is a lively place, its alleyways are
filled with shops, tea-houses, and brothels (it's a port city after all). Tourist trinkets are
plentiful here, if this is your only stop in Morocco, buy away. But if you plan to continue
traveling in Morocco, you'll find better deals elsewhere.
The American Legation - Morocco was the first nation to recognize American
independence, and the USA established a diplomatic mission in Tangier in 1821. Now a
museum, the American Legation is located in the southwest corner of the medina and
worth a look. The museum houses some fascinating art including a room dedicated to
Paul Bowles, and works by Eugene Delacroix, Yves Saint Laurent and James McBeay.
Place de France - is the heart of ville nouvelle and the social focal point for the middle
classes in Tangier. A good place to sip some tea and enjoy the sea view is the highly
recommended Terrasse des Paresseux just east of the Place.
The Kasbah - The Kasbah is located high on a hill in Tangier with some good views of
the ocean. The old Sultan's palace (built in the 17th Century) lies within the Kasbah's
walls, is known as Dar El Makhzen and is now a museum that houses fine examples of
Moroccan art.
Grand Socco A large square at the main entrance of the medina is a busy transport hub
and a good place to watch the chaos of traffic, carts and people go about their daily
routines.