MOROCCO TRAVEL TIPS

   


Morocco is an Islamic country and it pays to understand what this means. Their religion is an integral part of their culture. Their holy book is the Koran, based on the teachings of the Prophet Mohammed. Each Muslim practices the five tenets, called the Pillars of Islam. These require that the faithful profess their faith, pray five times a day, practice charity, fast during Ramadan, and make a pilgrimage to Mecca.

If you visit you will encounter the faithful carrying out their duties throughout the country. If you respect their customs and restrictions you'll have no problems.

The main restriction a tourist will encounter is the prohibition on visiting mosques, unless you are Muslim. This is unfortunate since much of the most beautiful artistry in the country is inside these mosques. There are certain historic mosques which allow visitors and you should check for these wherever you visit.

If you visit during the month of Ramadan when the faithful fast each day until sunset, you are likely to have a somewhat different experience than a visit at other times of the year. However, you won't be expected to fast, and in most larger towns and cities you'll find places to eat during the day.

Morocco is by far one of the more liberal Islamic countries. They do allow the sale and consumption of alcohol, but it is strictly controlled. Hotel bars and upscale restaurants will almost always serve alcohol. You'll find many of the less than faithful getting drunk. These Moroccans are either the young or westernized. They will encourage you to drink with them. If this is your thing, you'll make friends easily. But never offer alcohol to a Muslim unless you are in a bar or they are already imbibing.

Muslims dress conservatively. This means both men and women usually cover their bodies completely. The exceptions are at the beach or doing heavy manual labor. Tourists who expose too much in town are likely to be viewed with disfavor, especially women. Don't offend the Moroccans with your clothes or lack thereof but in general, the Moroccans are very friendly and hospitable.

Money: The local currency is the Dirham, roughly 11 Dirhams to the euro. We recommend you bring traveler's checks and a good ATM card. US dollars or other currencies can be converted at most banks. Don't put your card in an ATM unless you see the symbol that matches your card on the machine. You might lose your card. So be sure you get enough cash to carry you until the next major city. BCM seems to be the best bank, accepting foreign cards in most of their ATMs.

Environment: Morocco has a diverse geography, from the coolern Mediterranean and Atlantic coast in the north, to the desperately hot, arid deserts and mountains of the south. You can encounter a wide range of climatic conditions and you should be prepared. Where ever you go in the country, you should carry bottled water with you, and drink as much as you can to ward off dehydration.

In the central valleys of the country a vast zone of agriculture produces far more than Morocco needs. This verdant farmland exports a wide range of produce to markets in Europe. In certain parts one is reminded of the French countryside.

By far the most interesting attractions besides the cities are Morocco's famous deserts, the Rif and Atlas mountains and the Atlantic and Mediterranean sea. There are many superb beaches in Morocco. Some are big tourist resorts, others completely empty and pristine.

Language: If you speak only English you may have difficulty outside the major cities and tourist areas. The best language to speak is the first language of every Moroccan, Arabic. If you don't do Arabic, French will serve you well in most cities and throughout the country except in the far north, where Spanish and Berber are spoken. We recommend a French/English dictionary to help out.

Bargaining The Moroccan game of buying and selling is an experience not to be missed. Unfortunately it quickly becomes tedious and costly to the visitor. You will never get a great bargain. That's it, accept it. You might get a better deal than some other tourist with less patience or experience. Just don't enter the game at the start of your trip. If you can, visit a fixed price shop right away to see what a fair price is and decide what you'd like to purchase during your trip. You might even pick up something at the fixed price shop.

The skill at which a shopkeeper can get you to not only pay several times what he would charge another Moroccan, but to get you to buy something you don't even want is amazing. All you have to do is show the slightest interest in something and it begins. Ask the price and you've bought it as far as he's concerned! Don't believe the stories that they start at double or triple the fair price (whatever that is!). They'll start at ten times a fair price if they think you'll pay it!

MOROCCAN HOME LIFE

MOROCCAN HOME LIFE



Being invited to a Moroccan home is an honor. Knowing what to expect can make the experience much more enjoyable.

Most people who go to Morocco go for the beaches or the souks of Marrakesh. Very few people seem to be able to get under the skin of the place and really explore it. The best way is, of course, by making friends with the locals.

Moroccans tend to be very hospitable and will spend their last dirham on providing a nice meal for a guest in their home. It might be tea and cakes but it will be served in the best teapot with the cakes on hand embroidered serviettes. And they won't be cakes bought in a shop. Oh no, everything is made from scratch. The women bake and cook daily and there seems to be an endless supply of cakes, biscuits and pastries.

The typical way of eating in Morocco might go like this: breakfast is coffee with plenty of sugar (Moroccans eat a lot of sugar) and a pastry of some sort. Lunch is the main meal of the day and will be eaten around 1pm. It might be a Tajine of lamb with broad beans and peas, eaten with the daily baked flat bread that is the staple of the Moroccan diet. Also served with the main meal might be side dishes of eggplant puree or a salad. Meals are eaten using the bread as the utensil to pick up the meat and vegetables. One advantage of everyone eating of the same platter is that one tends to eat less than one would if it were served individually on plates. Most Westerners who move to Morocco tend to lose weight over time. Partly from eating such healthy and fresh food and partly from eating smaller portions.

After the meal there will typically be a large bowl of seasonal fruit on the table and everyone takes a knife and peels or cuts the pieces they want. Sometimes there might be some yoghurt. Around 6pm, sweet, hot, green tea made with fresh mint is served with pastries, Msemen, also known as Rghaif (a sort of fried bread that can be savoury or sweet) and biscuits. Later on that night, from 9pm onwards, another supper is served. It might soup or spaghetti. Fruit will again be served afterwards and is typically the main dessert in Morocco.

The Moroccan diet, while high in sugar, is very healthy. The fruit and vegetables eaten daily are seasonal and always fresh. Most housewives shop every day for food so there is little that is kept in the way of leftovers. Bread is eaten with almost everything and knives and forks rarely used.

The Moroccan Salon

When visiting a Moroccan home, the first thing you do is take off your shoes. Most Moroccan women wear shoes that are open at the back so it's very easy to slip in and out of them. A Moroccan salon, where the family gather to eat, celebrate and greet guests is set up with sofas that are built into the walls and typically line at least three of the walls in a room. The more affluent families stuff the seats with sheep's wool which would be taken from the sheep that are sacrificed at Eid El Kebir each year. These seats are quite firm and, when the cushions that line the wall are taken off them, make wonderful beds. Indeed, this is where visiting family members will typically sleep. Some homes have two or more salons for a variety of uses. One for daily family use and one to use with visitors. These salons are often beautifully decorated with fabrics that complement each other. The richer the family, the more sumptuous the salon.

MOROCCAN FESTIVALS AND EVENTS FOR 2013

MOROCCAN FESTIVALS AND EVENTS FOR 2013



There are plenty of events and festivals going on throughout the year, many of which are colourful, have deep traditional roots and are highly entertaining.

January

Marrakech International Marathon The marathon takes place in the beautiful setting of Marrakech and sees competitors from all over the world competing around some superb scenery to complete this gruelling marathon.

February

Almond Blossom Festival This beautiful spectacle takes place in Tafraoute where the trees for only a short time are in full blossom and whose colours greatly admired. The festival includes singing, dancing and other performances by the locals.

March

International Magic Festival The annual magic festival is held in Marrakech and has several performances by both international and up and coming local artists. Many of the top performers delight audiences at the Royal Theatre in Marrakech and there are plenty of magic performances on the street as well.

April

The Sand Marathon The Sand Marathon is an incredibly gruelling marathon that covers 150 miles and lasts for 11 days. The marathon takes place in Ouarzazate, usually towards the beginning of April.

Grand Prix Hassan II This popular event attracts some the very best players on the ATP World Tour and takes place at the Complexe Al Amal in Casablanca.

May

Mawazine Festival This modern festival takes place in the city of Rabat and has several artists performing concerts that range from top international performers to local artists, past headliners include Elton John and Sting. Also on offer are art exhibitions and plenty of street entertainers to keep the huge crowds entertained.

Desert Music Festival The Desert music Festival offers an outstanding selection of music genres that ranges from traditional Moroccan music to music from international musicians from around the world. The event takes place annually in Errachidia.

June

Fes Sacred Music Festival The festival offers a wide range of traditional music performed by both Moroccan musicians and those from around the world. The event takes place in the city of Fes annually during the month of June.

July

Marrakech Popular Arts Festival The festival features traditional Berber music, dancing, story tellers and entertainers and takes place in the vibrant and bustling city of Marrakech.

August

Imilchil Marriage Festival This unique event is steeped in tradition and takes place in the village of Imichil close to Marrakech. The event provides local Berbers the opportunity to meet and agree to marry, with everyone wearing traditional dress along with plenty of music, dancing and loads of atmosphere, the event is usually held around August or September.

September

Festival of Fantasia The Festival of Fantasia is a horse event that take place in Meknes usually towards the beginning of the month, and offers participants the chance to show off their horses, riding ability and timing.

October

Tissa Horse Festival The Tissa Horse Festival is held near Fes and provides the opportunity for hundreds of riders to compete against each other and show off their beautiful mounts and skills as horsemen.

November

Tan Tan Moussem This is a traditional festival gathering, of nomadic tribal members who come together in celebration of their culture and religion. The event takes place towards the end of November or beginning of December in the town of Tan Tan, to the south of Morocco.

Eid Al Adha Festival During this annual festival, the Prophet Abraham is honoured with the sacrifice of a ram, goat or cow.

December

Casablanca International Art Fair The art fair offers a huge selection of art forms such as sculptures and photography as well as workshops to participate in. The event takes place in the Exchange Office in Casablanca usually at the beginning of the month.
MOROCCAN FESTIVALS AND EVENTS FOR 2013
     
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14th January 2013: Moroccan Property News



There are plenty of events and festivals going on throughout the year, many of which are colourful, have deep traditional roots and are highly entertaining.

January

Marrakech International Marathon The marathon takes place in the beautiful setting of Marrakech and sees competitors from all over the world competing around some superb scenery to complete this gruelling marathon.

February

Almond Blossom Festival This beautiful spectacle takes place in Tafraoute where the trees for only a short time are in full blossom and whose colours greatly admired. The festival includes singing, dancing and other performances by the locals.

March

International Magic Festival The annual magic festival is held in Marrakech and has several performances by both international and up and coming local artists. Many of the top performers delight audiences at the Royal Theatre in Marrakech and there are plenty of magic performances on the street as well.

April

The Sand Marathon The Sand Marathon is an incredibly gruelling marathon that covers 150 miles and lasts for 11 days. The marathon takes place in Ouarzazate, usually towards the beginning of April.

Grand Prix Hassan II This popular event attracts some the very best players on the ATP World Tour and takes place at the Complexe Al Amal in Casablanca.

May

Mawazine Festival This modern festival takes place in the city of Rabat and has several artists performing concerts that range from top international performers to local artists, past headliners include Elton John and Sting. Also on offer are art exhibitions and plenty of street entertainers to keep the huge crowds entertained.

Desert Music Festival The Desert music Festival offers an outstanding selection of music genres that ranges from traditional Moroccan music to music from international musicians from around the world. The event takes place annually in Errachidia.

June

Fes Sacred Music Festival The festival offers a wide range of traditional music performed by both Moroccan musicians and those from around the world. The event takes place in the city of Fes annually during the month of June.

July

Marrakech Popular Arts Festival The festival features traditional Berber music, dancing, story tellers and entertainers and takes place in the vibrant and bustling city of Marrakech.

August

Imilchil Marriage Festival This unique event is steeped in tradition and takes place in the village of Imichil close to Marrakech. The event provides local Berbers the opportunity to meet and agree to marry, with everyone wearing traditional dress along with plenty of music, dancing and loads of atmosphere, the event is usually held around August or September.

September

Festival of Fantasia The Festival of Fantasia is a horse event that take place in Meknes usually towards the beginning of the month, and offers participants the chance to show off their horses, riding ability and timing.

October

Tissa Horse Festival The Tissa Horse Festival is held near Fes and provides the opportunity for hundreds of riders to compete against each other and show off their beautiful mounts and skills as horsemen.

November

Tan Tan Moussem This is a traditional festival gathering, of nomadic tribal members who come together in celebration of their culture and religion. The event takes place towards the end of November or beginning of December in the town of Tan Tan, to the south of Morocco.

Eid Al Adha Festival During this annual festival, the Prophet Abraham is honoured with the sacrifice of a ram, goat or cow.

December

Casablanca International Art Fair The art fair offers a huge selection of art forms such as sculptures and photography as well as workshops to participate in. The event takes place in the Exchange Office in Casablanca usually at the beginning of the month.

WEALTHY INVESTORS BUY LUXURY MOROCCAN PROPERTY

WEALTHY INVESTORS BUY LUXURY MOROCCAN PROPERTY

The second home industry in Morocco is expanding and attracting domestic buyers as well as wealthy property investors from around the globe, according to a new report.

Over the last decade, Morocco has benefited from strong macroeconomic policies that have contributed to its economic growth, improving social indicators and expanding middle class, says the report from Aylesford International.

It points out that according to Wealth-X there are now 35 ultra high net worth individuals in Morocco, with a total wealth of US$5 billion who are interested in property as an investment.

Political reform introduced with a new constitution in July 2011 has meant Morocco has not experienced the social unrest of the wider north African region and as such, tourism and the second home industry have continued to expand, attracting both fashionable domestic clientele as well as the international elite, and have been key to driving the country’s economy.

The report also says that there is now a substantial expat community in Morocco. Foreign residents are primarily from Francophone countries and the UK, as well as those from much further afield. They are attracted to Morocco’s moderate property transaction costs, liberal inheritance laws, and supply of exceptional, high end properties.

Recently, however, slow growth in the European Union, particularly in France and Spain which are Morocco’s key export partners, has had an impact on economic performance, and the current deficit is thought to have increased to 8.8% of GDP in 2012, according to figures from the International Monetary Fund.

To that end, Morocco’s Budget in 2013 has sought to tax both high income earners as well as companies that produce large profits. Effective as of 01 January 2013 for three years until the end of 2015, the ‘social contribution’ applies to individuals whose net, Moroccan sourced salaries are above 360,000 dirhams (£28,200), at progressive rates from 2% to 6%. The highest rate is applied to salaries in excess of 840,000 dirhams or £65,800.

The report details what taxes are payable on buying and selling property in Morocco. When buying there is an agent commission of 2.5%, at Notary fee of 1% plus VAT at 10% plus a Notarial tax of 0.5%. There is also a land registration fee of 3% to 4% plus land registry tax of 1%.

When selling a property there is no inheritance tax as such but gift tax may be levied at a flat rate of 20%. Capital Gains Tax applies to the sale of a property unless it has been the owner’s principal residence for six years. Gains are subject to the tax on real estate profits at a 20% rate. The minimum tax is 3% of the transfer price. However, gains derived from the sale of property amounting to a maximum of MAD 140,000 per year are exempt.

As far as local property taxes are concerned owners face an annul urban tax from local municipalities which are progressive from 0.025% to 0.5%. There is a tax d’habitation which is an annual property tax based on 0% to 30% of the rental value of the property. Only 25% of the assessed rental property value is subject to tax when it is a primary residence.

Properties that are attracting wealthy buyers in Morocco include luxury villas in Marrakech on private estates which can boast 18 hole golf courses, luxury boutique hotels, and spas.

DISCOVERY TRIPS FROM €290

Our discovery trips are second to none in this industry. Unlike most companies we offer a bespoke viewing experience where you will have our total focus.

This ensures that following a consultation either in person or by telephone prior to your visit, we can tailor a portfolio of property completely to your requirements.

Areas in which we sell property in Morocco - Saidia, Marrakech, Tangier, Agadir, Essaouira and Casablanca.

Equally if you are on holiday just prefer to travel under your own steam we can provide the support you need when searching for the right property in Morocco. Our whole team know the area inside out - we are the specialists. We too have bought here and know how important it is to research the area thoroughly before you make a decision. With that in mind we will give you a comprehensive tour of the local area, beaches, shops, food and culture. All of which will enable you to make an informed choice.

Our discovery trips to Morocco range from between 2 - 4 days and run throughout the week and the year. With property viewing specialists and offices in Morocco, Spain and in the UK we can accommodate any viewing requirements you may have. Any cost relating to travel, food or accommodation when you are with us will be covered.

During our trips you will be under no-pressure to buy what so ever. We firmly believe that the area sells itself. We are a professional family company with property interests in the area and a friendly, impartial, all encompassing service. We do not work on commission.

All we ask for is a confirmation of available funds, a general knowledge of the area and definite requirements.

If you would like to book a trip with us to Morocco, please complete the following form and then sit back and relax while we take care of everything.

AL HOUARA APTS

Reference: TA150000
Price £128,000 • €150,000
Golf apartments from €151,488
Beach apartments from €268,800
Wide selection of luxury beach and golf property
Fantastic beachfront location
10 minutes from Tangiers international airport
By Qatari Diar – a major UAE developer
Comprehensive luxury facilities
3 x luxury hotels - Kempinski confirmed
Sports academy
Completion in August 2011
Interested? Contact us for further details

AL HOUARA RESORT: THE GOOD LIFE

Conveniently located within 20 minutes drive from Tangiers and its international airport, the Al Houara Resort offers a selection of truly luxurious accommodation designed to meet the expectations of discerning visitors.

Enjoy the Moroccan spa, equestrian centre or popular beach club and for those who would like a personal challenge, why not try out the 18-hole world-class golf course designed by Graham Marsh and Vijay Singh.

Oceanfront living has never been so luxurious and elegant. Select from a wide range of beach apartments or villas. Each offers a special view of a shimmering sandy beach. Golf residences are also available for those who prefer the view of a lush green.

THE KASBAH: A UNIQUE FIVE STAR RESORT

Al Houara’s 5 Star Kempinski hotel is the crowning glory of the resort, offering breathtaking comfort and refined elegance. The exotic Kasbah, is the perfect place to shop or just relax at one of the many restaurants, cafés and enjoy the good life. Improve muscle tone and let go of tensions in the spa, health club and swimming pools and, when night falls, move to an entirely different rhythm in the chic Al Houara nightclub.

THE DIAR CLUB: OWNERSHIP MADE EASY

The Diar Club gives you the option of remarkable and unexpected financial opportunities. With its affiliation to the Registry Collection, the Diar Club allows owners to exchange vacation time with owners of similar luxury resort properties in exotic locations around the world. Moreover, the Diar Club offers a rental service to generate income for owners whenever their properties are not being used. To top it off, its members automatically benefit from unlimited personalised concierge services to meet their every whim.

QATARI DIAR: TURNING VISION INTO VALUE

The State of Qatar has a vision of a tolerant, modern society, based on the latest knowledge and built of contemporary infrastructures, developed to the most exacting standards of excellence. It also has the investment resources to be truly innovative and forward thinking. Qatari Diar, a master real-estate developer, has been entrusted with realising this vision in a way that promotes sustainable growth and, through projects such as Al Houara, uplifts and nurtures entire communities. Qatari Diar accepts only the highest standards in design and construction. The Al Houara complex is bound to become a distinctive landmark, in elegant harmony with the unique historical surroundings of Morocco. Moreover, it will create long-term financial benefits for the people of the region. We invite you to be part of the amazing Al Houara cultural project.

OWNERSHIP OPTIONS:

The developer is offering two ownership models. The first one private - full freehold to use as you wish.

The 2nd an investment ownership option - Personal Use and Rental Exchange - This innovative ownership model is offered in conjunction with Wyndham Worldwide's Registry Collection, the world's largest rental company with a database of 9 million clients. Properties in this scheme are offered fully furnished and managed with an allocation for personal use and if you fancy a change you can exchange weeks in Al Houara for weeks in other Wyndham Resorts throughout the world.

FINANCE AND PAYMENT TERMS:

OPTION 1: 5,000€ to reserve, 20% down after 21 days (paid into an Escrow account), 30% at foundation (after one year), 20% at roof, 30% after two years on completion

OPTION 2: 5,000€ to reserve, 20% down after 21 days (paid into an Escrow account), 10% after one year. After this financing available from Moroccan Bank



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