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Morocco

Program Overview

Marhaba bikum fil-maghreb.
Squeezed between the cool blue waters of the Atlantic and the sweeping gold sands of the Sahara, the Kingdom of Morocco is perched on the northwest tip of the African continent. Shaped by generations of Berber, Roman, Phoenician, Arab, African, Spanish, and French settlers, Morocco has always been a crossroads of cultures, languages, religions, and arts. Today, Morocco is a country of rich cultural heritage, fascinating contrasts, and warm, welcoming people. Slide a traditional djellaba over your shoulders, hear the hypnotic beat of daily prayers, and prepare for an unforgettable month in Morocco.

Orientation in Rabat
You and your group learn about life in an Islamic culture through discussions about cultural differences, survival Arabic language lessons, city walks in the shadows of 1,000-year-old buildings, and activities in Rabat’s ancient Medina. Your orientation to Morocco concludes with a few days in magnificent Fès and an overnight in the Sahara.

Homestay and Arts in Rural Morocco
Become part of the fabric of a Moroccan family during your homestay in a rural community. Take part in a series of hands-on projects that immerse you in the artistic traditions of local artisans, musicians, and educators. Strolls along winding earthen paths with host siblings, discussions with local shopkeepers over cups of hot mint tea, and visits to open-air markets deepen your understanding of daily life. Learning how to cook traditional Moroccan meals, moving to ceremonial music, and creating authentic handicrafts through carpentry, wicker making, and weaving give you a deeper connection to the people and culture of rural Morocco.

Sample activities: Contribute your efforts to small-scale community service work; learn how to weave an oriental carpet; teach English to elementary school children; make your own Moroccan-style wicker basket; practice traditional dances; visit a colorful souk; practice your French, Berber, or Arabic language skills.

Travel and Exploration
Your journey through Morocco concludes with a visit to Marrakech and the coastal community of Essaouira or El Jadida.

Sample activities: Visit Marrakech’s famous Jama Lfna, a centuries-old market teeming with vendors from remote Atlas villages, storytellers, snake charmers, fortune tellers, dancers, and acrobats; rest on soft sand beaches and reflect on your monthlong adventure.

"All my senses were engaged in Morocco. My ears learned to love the Moroccan drums played outside at night. The rhythm acted as the lullaby that helped me sleep despite its energy. My taste buds learned to savor the new spices that were present in each meal. Most importantly, my eyes were able to take in scenes I will always remember. It was amazing how the sky changed hues and textures; it was almost like an art show all day and all night. I've never seen such a beautiful sky in my entire life."

-- Stephanie Contreras, Whitehall, Pennsylvania