Morocco (in Arabic: ‫المغرب‬, al-Maghrib, which means "The West") is a country in North Africa.

With its many oases and beautiful cities, it is one of the oldest countries in Africa. Morocco is
one of the most fascinating destinations in the world, with a little bit of everything, from
mountain skiing, to ancient cities full of history and beaches.

Understand

The great struggle for independence from France ended for Morocco in 1956. The
international city of Tangier became part of Morocco in the same year. Morocco annexed
Western Sahara during the late 1970s, and although the status of the territory remains
undetermined, Morocco considers it an integral part of its territory.

Political reforms in the 1990s resulted in the creation of a bicameral legislature in 1997,
although the king still has political power. The press is relatively free, although there is some
censorship regarding the Western Sahara case.

Holidays

January 1 - New Year

March 2 - Independence

May 1 - Labor Day

Of boat

Every year the cruise line Classic International Cruises organizes cruises, in which the language
on board is Portuguese, to Morocco with departures from Lisbon. It is a safe way to get a first
look at the country. Traditional destinations are: Agadir, Casablanca (Rabat & Marrakech) and
Tangier. For more information www.cic-cruises.com. In one trip you can visit several Moroccan
ports.

By car

The main roads are in good condition, however, they can be very narrow.

The main cities are connected by toll motorways, which are still being expanded.

The motorway between Casablanca and Rabat (A3) was completed in 1987.