Morocco Pavilion


Morocco Pavilion

Morocco PavilionMorocco Pavilion

The Morocco Pavilion in Epcot’s World Showcase is one of my personal favorites. It seems to get overlooked by a lot of folks and that’s a shame because it is not only quite beautiful and intricate, it is perhaps the most accurate rendition of the country represented than any other pavilion. Here are a few interesting facts about the pavilion and a bit about Morocco:
Morocco PavilionMorocco Pavilion
It is the only pavilion in the World Showcase actually sponsored by a country.
The King of Morocco sent his Royal Architect to Florida to supervise construction to ensure accuracy.
All of the mosaics found in the pavilion were done by a team of Moroccan Artisans sent over by the King.
The buildings in the Morocco pavilion represent religious structures and therefore are not lit during Illuminations. Take a look it’s the only pavilion not lit.
The prayer tower is a replica of a religious shrine in Marrakesh.
All of the mosaics and arches have a defect in them that was purposely placed there. The reason, only Allah can create perfection and therefore all man made objects must be flawed in some way.
Morocco and the United States have a very long history. Morocco was the first country worldwide to recognize the United States as a sovereign nation.
O.K. that’s enough about history and trivia, let’s talk about the beauty of the pavilion as illustrated in some of my photos:









Unfortunately, I think a majority of visitors give this pavilion (and probably several others) a cursory exploration. If you take the time to explore it more deeply you will not only be rewarded with the beauty shown above but inside these buildings there are wonderful things to experience.



After you have finished your exploring and shopping there are still many surprises left in store for you. Two of the better restaurants in the World Showcase, one table service and one counter service, are in this pavilion. Restaurant Marrakesh, the table service venue, has an outstanding menu with a lot of variety. Don’t worry about the food being too exotic (no – they don’t serve goat’s  eyes or monkey brains) it is delightfully seasoned and delicious. My wife is an extraordinarily picky eater who only likes “regular food” and she has always been delighted with her meal at Restaurant Marrakesh. They also have an authentic Moroccan band and a “G” rated belly dancer for your enjoyment.
Morocco Pavilion
The counter service location. the Tangierine Cafe, serves food every bit as good as Marrakesh but with a bit more limited menu. Be aware, the portions are quite large so you may want to consider sharing.

After you have eaten you can get some Baklava for desert at the stand along the promenade in front of the pavilion – YUM!! While you are enjoying your dessert you just might catch a show from Mo’ Rockin, a lively and talented group of musicians who perform several times daily.

Please do yourself a favor and spend some time in this pavilion, you will be rewarded with experiences you won’t soon forget. As always, enjoy your visit to Walt Disney World!!



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Resources - Useful Facts About Morocco


Resources - Useful Facts About Morocco


Morocco PavilionPassport / Visa Requirements
These Requirements are subject to change. Check with the embassy or consulate in your home country before you depart.
Travelers visiting Morocco need a passport valid for at least three months. Visas are not required of MOST Foreigners. A return or onward travel ticket is required.

Customs
Visitors are allowed to import, duty-free 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, or 250 grams of tobacco and 1 liter of spirits. All currency or traveler's checks must be Declared upon entry. It is illegal to import or export Moroccan currency.
Business Hours
Banks are open 8:30-11:30 AM and 2:30-4:30 PM Monday-Friday, along with a midday break on Friday. Shops are open various hours, DEPENDING on the season, and the personal preferences of the owner. Some close for lunch, drank Many are open later in the evening. Government offices are open 8:30 AM to Generally noon and 2:30-6:30 PM Monday-Friday, along with a midday break on Friday. During Ramadan and in the summer, hours are shorter Generally for banks and government offices.
Climate
Morocco's Mediterranean coast subtropical climate HAS tempered by oceanic influences the coastal cities That give moderate temperatures. Essaouira at temperatures average 16 ° C (61 ° F) in January and 22 ° C (72 ° F) in August. In the interior, winters are colder and summers warmer. The mean temperature in Fez is 10 ° C (50 ° F) in January and 27 ° C (81 ° F) in August. Mountain peaks are covered with snow falling on MOST of the year, and temperatures of less than -18 ° C (less than 0 ° F) are common in the Higher elevations.
Mainly Rain falls in winter and MOST heavily in the northwest. Average annual precipitation is about 96 centimeters (38 inches) in Tangier, 43 centimeters (17 inches) in Casablanca, 28 centimeters (11 inches) in Essaouira, and less than 10 centimeters (4 inches) in the Sahara.
Morocco Pavilion
Government & Economy
Morocco is a Muslim kingdom since 1999 Governed by King Mohamed VI, son of the late King Hassan II. The political structure is a social democratic and constitutional monarchy. Agriculture: Exports include fruits (oranges, tomatoes, figs), early vegetables, flowers (roses), preserved food ... Minerals: Three-quarters of the world's stock of phosphates, energy goal HAS to be imported.

Population
The original people of Morocco are the Berbers. The Arab population today is Concentrated in the North and in the cities. The population of Morocco is Estimated at 27 million people.

Language
Moroccan Arabic is the official language of the Kingdom first, although Many people speak dialects of the Berber language, Especially in and south of the High Atlas.

French is the second language, Commonly used on signposts Alongside Arabic, menus and in shops. English, German, Spanish or Italian is Understood Many hotels in gold or Wherever tourists markets are found.

Clothing
Between November and March, medium-weight clothing with a raincoat. Light-weight clothes are needed in summer. In DeLuxe hotels, guests Usually more formal clothes change into for dinner.

Religion
Islam is the state religion. However, the country HAS always beens tolerant Towards the other religions. The Largest Jewish community of the Arab world lives in Morocco.

Money
The Moroccan dirham (DH) is nominally Divided into 100 cents. It may not be imported or Exported. Visitors can import as much foreign currency (in cash or traveler's checks) as They wish. Their goal shoulds keep receipts for exchange foreign currency exchange back to before departure. Visa, American Express and Diner's credit cards are accepted in hotels and shops MOST.

Tipping
Taxi drivers shoulds not be tipped. Generally Restaurant waiters expect a tip, Which varies from 10 percent in more expensive restaurants to cafes in A Few dirham.
Electricity
Current is 220 volts AC, 50 Hz for newer buildings, 110 volts AC, 50 Hz for older ones. European-style two-pin plugs are standard.
Local Time
G.M.T. the whole year.

Electricity
Generally 220 volts supply. European plugs.



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Morocco Basic Facts: interesting fact morocco


Morocco Basic Facts:  interesting fact morocco

The Kingdom of Morocco is filled with cultural and natural treasures that will not disappoint even the most adventurous traveler. Morocco's fascinating medieval cities like Marrakech and Fez lie in between the great Sahara Desert and the Atlantic Ocean. The Atlas Mountains make up the backbone of Morocco, this is where traditional Berber culture still thrives today.
Location: Morocco is in Northern Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, between Algeria and Western Sahara; see map
Area: Morocco covers 446,550 sq km of land, slightly larger than California, and slightly smaller than Spain.
Capital City: Rabat
Population: Just over 32 million people live in Morocco.
Language: Arabic (official), Berber dialects, and French which is often the language of business, government, and diplomacy.
Religion: Muslim 98.7%, Christian 1.1%, Jewish 0.2%
Climate: Hot summers (June - September) and cool to cold winters (especially in the Atlas Mountains). Avoid the desert during the summer months and watch out for sand storms February to April. More about Morocco's climate and average temperatures...
When to Go: May to October for the beaches; November to April for the desert; April to October for the mountains, March to June and September to November to explore the imperial cities like Marrakech and Fes. More about "Best Time to Go to Morocco".
Currency: Moroccan Dirham, Click here for currency converter.

Morocco's Main Attractions:

Marrakech: The imperial city of Marrakech has a fascinating medina filled with tiny shops, artisans and cafe's. Stay in a converted Riad (boutique hotel) and enjoy the delights of the main square, the Djemma el Fnaa, every evening. More about Marrakech...
Fes: The oldest of Morocco's imperial cities, Fes is a living, breathing, chaotic and fascinating medieval city that is still brimming with energy and life. Labyrinth streets give way to gorgeous mosques and pungent tanneries. More about Fes...
Essaouira: A laid back coastal town with a lovely medina, excellent seafood and decent beaches has made Essaouira one of Morocco's up and coming attractions. More about Essaouira...
Chefchaouen: A personal favorite, this little mountain town, painted in brilliant hues of blue, is relaxing and simply gorgeous. More about Chefchaouen...
Western Sahara: Camel trekking is the order of the day in Morocco's golden, red sand dunes that seemingly stretch on for ever.
More about Morocco's top attractions ...
Travel to Morocco

Morocco's International Airport: Mohammed V International Airport (Airport code: CMN) is Morocco's main airport for long-haul flights. Marrakech also has a busy international airport, Al Menara Airport (Airport code: RAK), with service to many European destinations.
Getting to Morocco: Most people either fly into Morocco or arrive by ferry from Spain and France; details on getting to Morocco.
Morocco's Embassies/Visas: Most nationalities including those from the US, Canada and the UK do not need a visa to enter Morocco as a tourist. Click here for a list of Moroccan Embassies to double check.
Morocco's Tourist Information Office (ONMT): Angle Rue Oued El Makhazine et rue Zalaga, BP 1910100 Agdal, Rabat, Morocco E-mail: contact@onmt.org.ma, Web Site: http://www.visitmorocco.com/
More Morocco Practical Travel Tips

Morocco's Economy and Politics

Economy: Moroccan economic policies brought macroeconomic stability to the country in the early 1990s but have not spurred growth sufficient to reduce unemployment - nearing 20% in urban areas - despite the Moroccan Government's ongoing efforts to diversify the economy. Morocco's GDP growth rose to 5.9% in 2008, with the economy recovering from a drought in 2007 that severely reduced agricultural output and necessitated wheat imports at rising world prices. Moroccan authorities understand that reducing poverty and providing jobs are key to domestic security and development. In 2005, Morocco launched the National Initiative for Human Development (INDH), a $2 billion social development plan to address poverty and unemployment and to improve the living conditions of the country's urban slums. Moroccan authorities are implementing reform efforts to open the economy to international investors. Despite structural adjustment programs supported by the IMF, the World Bank, and the Paris Club, the dirham is only fully convertible for current account transactions. In 2000, Morocco entered an Association Agreement with the EU and, in 2006, entered a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the US. Long-term challenges include improving education and job prospects for Morocco's youth, and closing the income gap between the rich and the poor, which the government hopes to achieve by increasing tourist arrivals and boosting competitiveness in textiles.
History/Politics: In 788, about a century after the Arab conquest of North Africa, successive Moorish dynasties began to rule in Morocco. In the 16th century, the Sa'adi monarchy, particularly under Ahmad AL-Mansur (1578-1603), repelled foreign invaders and inaugurated a golden age. In 1860, Spain occupied northern Morocco and ushered in a half century of trade rivalry among European powers that saw Morocco's sovereignty steadily erode; in 1912, the French imposed a protectorate over the country. A protracted independence struggle with France ended successfully in 1956. The internationalized city of Tangier and most Spanish possessions were turned over to the new country that same year. Morocco virtually annexed Western Sahara during the late 1970s, but final resolution on the status of the territory remains unresolved. Gradual political reforms in the 1990s resulted in the establishment of a bicameral legislature, which first met in 1997. The country has made improvements in human rights under King Mohammed VI and its press is moderately free. Despite the continuing reforms, ultimate authority remains in the hands of the monarch.



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caftan jabador


Haute Couture Moroccan CAFTAN FES!

Are you looking for a kaftan, Takchita original? KAWTAR and Modes of Moroccan Caftan presents a beautiful and charming too Haute Couture Collection Moroccan and Eastern ..

CaftanFes is a boutique Moroccan Caftan Haute Couture moved to Fez, which gives you a wide choice of traditional Moroccan fashion dresses, Moroccan caftan, Moroccan Takchita, Jabador Moroccan and Moroccan Djallaba ..

In Creation Haute Couture Caftan in Fez you can discover the Haute Couture Collection Caftans and takchitas and Djallaba.

Our workshops Couture Moroccan work closely to achieve for you Caftans Moroccans upscale, with a reasonable budget.

You clench the Welcome to the world of traditional takchitas and Caftans of Morocco!

CAFTANFES you find in many models Caftans Moroccans, takchitas Moroccans, Jabadors Moroccans and Moroccan Djellabas encors of your dreams in your standard size or custom.

The seam is provided by the master craftsmen of the medina of Fez, and Kaftans, takchitas, Jabadors and Djallabas be made and carried out, depending on your choice in various fabrics, Silk Satin, Taffeta, Orgnazas, Brocade, Lace ... by master craftsmen of the medina of Fez highly qualified.

Caftan Fez offers numerous models Caftan Morocco for your engagement, your wedding, your henna ceremonies, your baptisms, circumcisions you, we will create collections Takchita Caftan and tailor your waist to assist you in all your festivities and happy events.

We realize encors of Djellabas Jabadors and modern, refined and elegant while for everyday life, family visits, prayers at the mosque, and the prayers of Eid ...

Our collection of Kaftans, Takchita, Djallaba and Jabador your Moroccan provides the ability to customize your Caftan, Takchita, Djallaba, Jabador, tailor a Hijab, Veil, Burnous or Sulham. Our collection of Moroccan Caftan also gives you a great choice for your purchases Caftans Moroccans Takchita Moroccan Moroccan Jabador for all marketing budgets Caftan, Takchita and Jabador Morocco.

Kaoutar Maatallah is also at your disposal to make unique designs to your measurements and your image.

Do not hesitate to contact us for more information and help you in your choice in the New Moroccan Caftan Collection 2012.

 Caftan Mode and Design offers a wide selection of Moroccan caftans.
With a concept of 24h or 48h delivery when the item is in stock in your size.
Now you can afford to shop at the last minute!
For all your Christmas be assured of receiving a traditional Moroccan dress design, trendy and original.
Do not hesitate to contact us for any information on a takchita or caftan.
 jabador


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casablanca beach

casablanca beach

Lonely Planet review for Beaches
The affluent suburb of Aïn Diab runs along the Atlantic beachfront west of the centre and is home to the happening Blvd de la Corniche. Lined with beach clubs, upmarket hotels, restaurants, bars and clubs it is the entertainment hub of Casablanca and the place for young, chic professionals to see and be seen.

However, the promenade packed with walkers and joggers is really a potholed pavement and in between the busy beach clubs, the view is spoiled by abandoned pleasure grounds and concrete swimming pools filled with construction rubbish. The beach is still extremely popular though, and the easiest way to find an empty strip of sand is to visit one of the beach clubs. Bus 9 goes to Aïn Diab from Pl Oued al-Makhazine.



Read more: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/morocco/the-atlantic-coast/casablanca/sights/beach/beaches#ixzz2I3T8lLZX



Could there be a better spot for a weekend for the girls? And Hotel Tropical CasaBlanca is just the spot, located steps from Avenida Quinta, aka Fifth Avenue (the main drag). Tucked away from the street, it offers a tranquil vibe. Lush landscaping surrounds the pool and a small pond near the reception desk. The rooms are clean and simple but the location could not be better. And ask Nicola about the packages that include sessions with Ellen de Jonge at Yoga by the Way, a yoga studio just blocks away.

Recharge, renew and revive. Then hit the town to sample tamarind margaritas and chile rellenos. The boutiques stay open late so you can indulge your taste for shoe shopping, or meet the locals and dance at any of the clubs. Playa stays up late and the party always continues. And why not? Get up when you like, have a fresh watermelon juice with breakfast, then recharge and do it all over again. What happens in Playa, stays in Playa.



Read more: http://lodging.uptake.com/blog/hotel-tropical-casablanca.html#ixzz2I3SwiWtG



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dakhla tourism

dakhla tourism


Dakhla Dakhla Inauguration of an exhibition of local products
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An exhibition of local products that reflect the diversity of the potential of the region of Oued Ed-Dahab-Lagouira and wealth of local artisan opened Saturday on the ledge of Dakhla.


Organized within the framework of the first international tournament Dakhla Kiteboard Pro World Tour (KPWT), held last Saturday and accounting for the 8th stage of the KPWT World Tour, this event includes booths showcasing the strengths of the region, especially in the fisheries, agriculture and livestock, as well as investment opportunities in these sectors and projects initiated to develop these resources.
According to the organizers, this event is an opportunity for visitors to discover the evolution of indicators of production and investment in high value sectors in the region, thanks to the actions taken to strengthen the basic infrastructure and meet the conditions for a genuine socio-economic takeoff.

The range of Dakhla
It also allows, through crafts presented (jewelry, leather goods and traditional articles of clothing), to show some aspects of the experience of local people and the expertise of local artisans and their efforts to sustain the cultural and civilizational heritage own the inhabitants of the region.
According to the explanations given on this occasion, the fisheries sector in the region has experienced a notable change, both in terms of fish landings, the evolution of the fleet of fishing techniques used. These results were made possible by the development plan developed to optimize performance and ensure a rational exploitation of fishery resources in the region.
The camel breeding in turn has made in recent years sustained development in the region of Oued Ed-Dahab-Lagouira, reaching more than 26,000 heads in the region of Oued Ed-Dahab-Lagouira, which also experienced in recent years a sustained development of irrigation systems intended primarily for the production of vegetables in greenhouses (500 ha), with annual returns of 35 000 tonnes.
Often called the "Jewel of the Desert" or "Pearl of the South", Dakhla also has built in recent years a worldwide reputation of "paradise for winter sports" and saw the scroll on its waves repeatedly times world champions windsurfing, kitesurfing and windsurfing.
The first international tournament Dakhla Kiteboard World Pro Tour Dakhla, held from 27 October to 3 current spot for the 8th stage of the Kiteboard Pro World Tour (KPWT), comprises more than 50 best kitesurfers in the world representing 46 countries.
In parallel with this sporting tournament, artistic evenings troops led by local music and parades of children were held throughout the week of the sporting event.
The inauguration of this exhibition space took place in the presence of Ministers of Tourism and Handicrafts, Mohamed Boussaid, Youth and Sports, Mr. Moncef Belkhayat, the director of the agency for the promotion and of social and economic development of the southern provinces, Ahmed Hajji, the Wali of the region of Oued Ed-Dahab-Lagouira, Governor of the province of Oued Ed-Dahab, Hamid Chabar, the governor of the province of Aousserd Mr. Al-Hassan Aboulaouane and elected leaders.




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moresque en tetuan-mauresque en tetuan

moresque en tetuan-mauresque en tetuan



In 1912 begins the protectorate established by the Spaniards. It will be spread over a period of forty years until Morocco's independence in 1956. Tetouan is characterized by its Andalusian influence. One of the main attractions is the medina with its white houses and green ceramic roofs. Many shops and religious buildings make up this town in the foothills of the Rif.

History

Tetouan was founded in the third century av.J.C. by Mauritanians who gave him the name Tamuda. In the first century, the city passed into the hands of the Romans who make a fortified town. In the fourteenth century dynasty mérinides seizes control Tamuda and built the new city Tetouan. But its instability due to growing influence of pirates and rebels destroys Tetouan Henry III of Castile in 1399.

Population grows and becomes Tetouan in the sixteenth century predominantly Muslim and Jewish. Piracy disappears but the prosperity of Tetouan linked to pirate activity declines. In the seventeenth century, the city occupied by the Spaniards during three years increases its activity through trade with Spain. It became a city in 1913 until the Spanish protectorate of Morocco's independence in 1956.

Tetouan, the capital of classical arts and traditions cuturelles Arab-Andalusian. Its history is marked by events that confirms this internationally recognized status for the dove the north. Socio-historical reasons are often given for the Proven Tetouan penchant for Arab and Islamic art.

The origins of the city are lost in the mists of time, objects extracted from excavations dating from the third century BC and the ancient city proviennnent Tamuda. The Phoenicians settled on them in their time counter at the mouth of Oued Martil.

It is in 1307 that Sultan Abu Thabet Merinid built the fortified city of Tetouan. The avowed purpose of this sultan was to build a forward base Sebta likely to recover.

Populated by soldiers, the city quickly became a fearsome pirate nest. Faced with their incessant attacks, the Spanish landed in Tetouan and destroyed in retaliation.

In 1492, the fall of Granada hunting southern Spain thousands of Muslim immigrants who settled on the ruins of the city: it is then reborn from its ashes and knows a sumptuous essort.

Under the reign of Moulay Ismail in the eighteenth century, Tetouan experiencing a new economic development due to its numerous exchanges with the West.

The Medina of Tetouan
She is in the eyes of experts first place all the medinas of Morocco. This means its size, quality and care taken never to pervert its authenticity.
She retained Andalusian soul which makes it the most Moorish Moroccan cities.
To access it, just go to the site Hassan II (Feddane) to the east of this place, in a doorway, the street begins Hadj Ahmed Torres which opens into the medina.
The Moorish style takes on its full dimension, especially in residential areas where the wrought iron bars of the windows give expression to all those thick immaculate facades.

Souk El Hots
Charming little square planted some trees where you can enjoy the beauty of the eyes exposed pottery on display. Backed by a former borj, it is dominated by a beautiful polygonal tower topped by merlons purposes. Passing under the arch opening up right, can cross the wall. A few meters away, the street jewelers reveals its many charms as crafts likely to succumb to the most demanding.

The souk tanners
This is the fabric market. In the Medina of Tetouan, Guersa el Kebira is the area of ​​draper and clothes. Richly colored fabrics, plain, lined and precious are a true wonder.
The colors and materials seem infinitely varied and compose your eyes a vivid picture.
At the center of the square, Rif women, dressed in their costumes are sitting behind stalls crowded with pieces of cloth striped red, white and blue.

Instead of USAA
Fountain mosaic, white houses and its beautiful rose renderont you the necessary energy to the continuation of the visit.






The Royal Palace
Returning to the Hassan II square (Feddane), you will see the Royal Palace built in the seventeenth century. The extensive restoration work that had to endure in the early twentieth century altérèrent nothing Moorish character. A vast place Mechouar was constructed in the center of Pali. This is the square where the main celebrations take place which the King participates, and which also serves to ensure the safety of the sovereign and his entourage.

Souk El Fouki (instead of bread)
The souks of Tetouan compete with other cities. Souk El Fouki is known as the "place of bread." Many workshops open to your visit perpetuate the tradition of gesture and careful work of many highly motivated children. They learn by weaving, brassware, metal engraving, work and wood paint, mosaic or ceramic for strong tradition. In the middle, many stalls offer traditional and flat round loaves that exude a delicious smell in the neighborhood.

The Archaeological Museum
On the Al Jala stands the Archaeological Museum where lies the ancient history of the city: luxury mosaics, Roman bronze figurines, statuettes of goddesses, numismatic collections of the Punic period. The museum consists of an Andalusian-style garden, a hall, three permanent exhibition rooms, a screening room, a small restoration shop, a store and administrative offices. The museum also offers visitors a window with an interesting sample of antique coins (maurétaniennes or Roman) found at Lixus and Tangier to Tamuda, a Roman bronze candelabra discovered Lixus, a knee of a large statue and a marble bust Cato of Utica. Visiting the Museum allows visitors to understand the habits and customs of the past and offers a concrete picture of the lifestyle of the region.

The beaches of Tetouan
Taking the road towards Ceuta, many golden sandy beaches are managed as well as many hotels that have been designed with a constant view of the landscape.
Restaurants and inns are numerous. Treat yourself to the pleasure of tasting a few steps from the beautiful beach, a beautiful fish, fresh out of the sea by the fishermen who face the sea or the frail Esquis taganabout.
You will undoubtedly spend a few pleasant days relaxing on the beach in Cabo Negro, Kabila, or Marina Smir, for example.



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