Essaouira

The medina of Essaouira (formerly "Mogador") is a UNESCO World Heritage listed city, as an example of a late-18th century fortified town. 

Essaouira was founded in 1765. The oldest tombs date from 1776. Contrary to Jewish tradition and Mosaic Law, the tombs are sculptured with very marked human forms. The marble, granite, and sandstone memorial markers are rough stones or boulders, flat, shaped stones, finely smoothed and inscribed stones, and mausoleums. Some have traces of painting on their surfaces. Inscriptions are in Hebrew and French. The local Jewish community owns the site. The sea is adjacent to the cemetery.
Tour Essaouira's Jewish Mellah:



Essaouira's mellah covers over 10 percent of the town, but Jews constituted almost 40 percent of the population in the late 1880's. Jewish stars on the doors to the mellah show the degree to which Jews were accepted in Essaouira, to the point that some of the richer Jews did not even live in the mellah. Commemorative plaques indicate the buildings in which synagogues were located. 


Essaouria is a fun-filled and relaxing day trip from Marrakech. After breakfast at your hotel, depart for Essaouira. The journey to this former Portuguese fishing village offers up only a few roadside towns and the occasional Berber village. In the ’60s and ’70s, Essaouira was a pitstop on the hippie trek from Marrakesh. Jimi Hendrix made the pilgrimage, as did Bob Marley and Cat Stevens. Essaouira was the inspiration for Hendrix’s song “Castles Made of Sand”.

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Souks of Morocco Tour

This fun-filled Shop the Souks of Morocco Private Tour is for the Moroccan traveler (Book a Tour or call (800) 787-8806) who wants to learn how local crafts are made with opportunities to explore and buy. Let us be your guide to Morocco Travel.



Shopping in Morocco is a unique and exciting experience. No visit to Morocco would be complete without exploring the medinas (walled cities with maze-like streets) of Marrakech, Fès and Ouarzazate.

 Unlike shopping in the West, where people tend to visit local retailers, in Morocco a shopping trip involves visiting the old medina, and various souks (markets) within them that sell specific goods ranging from clothing, to fabrics, shoes, food and carpets. Since most foreign currencies are strong in comparison to the Moroccan dirham, you can go on an extensive shopping spree and purchase various local Moroccan handicrafts such as Moroccan leather work, carpets, jewelry of silver, gold and copper along with ancient embroideries and basketwork.



Souks and markets are a major featurein Moroccan life, and among the country’s greatest attractions. Each major city and town in Morocco has a special souk quarter. Villages in the country side also have local souks which are usually held one day each week in an open field or outside the towns kasbah walls. Large cities like Marrakesh and Fès have labyrinths of individual souks (each filling a street or square that is devoted tone particular craft). The city of Marrakesh, Fès and Ouarzazate are famous for their beautiful souks- which are Morocco’s posh and huge shopping centers. Some of the best buys in Morocco are dates, leather ware, handicrafts, carpets, pottery, wood carvings, traditional dress (djellabas) and various food products.


Souks and markets are also a daily destination where locals shop for fresh meat, vegetables, household goods and other items that Americans for example, purchase at Wal-Mart or Target. In the country side, you can find large numbers of weekly souks (markets). A new alternative to souks in Morocco is Marjane, a Moroccan hypermarket chain, found in large cities like Marrakech, Casablanca, Agadir, Fès, Tétouan and Tangier. Marjane is the “Moroccan Target” and sells a wide variety of items such as food, clothing, liquor, electronics and other household goods.
Whether or not you are a big shopper, visiting a souk is a cultural experience that should not be missed on a trip to Morocco.



Fès is separated into three parts, Fès el Bali (the old, walled city), Fes-Jdid (new Fes, home of the Mellah), and the Ville Nouvelle (the French-created, newest section of Fes). The Medina of Fès el Bali is believed to be the largest contiguous car-free urban area in the world. To enter the medina, you will pass through the Bab Boujeloud gateYou will explore the medina’s narrow streets lined with local shops and stalls of fresh fruit, mounds of spices, intricately woven Berber carpets and many other Moroccan handicrafts and home goods.

 Fès has two main streets, “Rue Talaa Kebira “ and the “Rue Talaa Seghira “ which are utilized as the main throughways when exploring the medina- and the mysterious maze-like streets in between. The Fès medina is a labyrinth of sloping, winding alleyways are crammed full of stalls and workshops.

This area is known as the famed Kissaria -the commercial centerFès Medina produces its own specialty goods: cobalt blue enameled pottery, carpets, wrought iron ... one looks on as the dyer stirs his yarns, steeped in their multitude of colors, as the tanner tramples his skins under an open sky -skins that the leather-worker will eventually adorn with fine gilt for book-binding.

.A multitude of locally produced goods are on sale including cotton fabric, silk, brocade work, slippers, and many more. Each district in the , with its decoration of blue and green faiences.



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The Best Time To Visit Morocco on a Private Tour

Morocco is often referred to as a cold country with a hot sun. The Best Time to visit on a Morocco Private Tour is spring and fall. Morocco's summers are exceptionally hot and winters can be chill to the bone. Morocco’sranges of climates greatly fluctuate due to the country’s geographic location between Europe, Asia, and Africa. Morocco’s unique weather patterns make it possible to find an ideal area to take a Morocco Tour year round, however, recommended months to experience Morocco fall between October and May. Traveling through Morocco during Ramadan can a little tricky because many shops and tourist sites close early or permanently to observe the month long holiday.

Spring (April and May) and Fall (September and October) are perhaps the best overall time to take a Moroccco Tour. With a summer climate in the south and in the mountains, as well as on the Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts. Winter can be perfect by day in the south, though desert nights can get very cold. If you’re planning to hike in the mountains, it’s best to keep to the months from April to October unless you have some experience in snow conditions.

Holidays in Morocco in 2017

Morocco is a country in North Africa, which combines a multitude of different cultural influences into one unique blend. On a holiday to Morocco you will have the chance to explore a multitude of different experiences, from bustling markets to idyllic beaches.

MARRAKECH

Exotic yet accessible, Marrakech is bursting at the seams with culture and is a real assault on the senses. In the heart of Morocco, nestled between mountain and desert, it’s unsurprising to find that this is a city of contrasts. The bustling atmosphere of the Djemaa el-Fna is far removed from the tranquillity of the various gardens; and the medina’s labyrinthine souk-lined streets wonderfully contradict the wide, treelined boulevards of the New Town. Marrakech offers excellent resort style accommodation as well as charming riads – traditional Moroccan style residences with inward-facing rooms and serene central courtyards. Providing a beautiful backdrop to the city are the snowcapped Atlas Mountains – the perfect territory for embarking on treks to hidden waterfalls, visiting Berber villages and soaking up the stunning views.

ATLAS MOUNTAINS

Perfect for an enthralling day trip from Marrakech, a twincentre escape or a holiday in its own right, this stunning region is home to traditional Berber villagers perched on the mountainside, as well as herb and spice farms. But it’s the natural environment that’s the real highlight, with snowcapped peaks, dramatic gorges, cascading waterfalls and far-reaching views. Trekking is one of the most popular ways to discover the mountains, ranging from gentle strolls to more challenging climbs.

The High Atlas is the most easily reached section of the mountains, at a distance of one-to-two hours away from Marrakech. The serene Asni Valley lies at the foot of some of the highest peaks in Marrakech, while the charming Berber town of Imlil is an excellent starting point for trekking.

One of the most popular attractions in the mountains is the Ouzoud Falls; a four-tired waterfall with waters cascading from a height of over 100 metres. Relax by the flowing waters, or wander along the surrounding walkways that meander through the trees. The drive to Ouarzazate offers mesmerising views. This beautiful city is nicknamed ‘the door of the desert’ as it lies in the centre of a bare plateau, with the desert to the south. Take a tour of the ancient Kasbah complex of Ait Benhaddou and Kasbah Taourirt. The Ouarzazate area also has claims to fame, with a number of Hollywood film scenes having been shot at the Atlas Studios here, including Lawrence of Arabia, The Mummy, Gladiator and Salmon Fishing in the Yemen. See p16-17 for a selection of our Atlas Mountains experiences.

AGADIR

Basking in over 300 days of sunshine a year, Morocco’s largest beach resort is set on a sprawling protected beach. Once a traditional Moroccan town, Agadir was completely rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 1960 as is now a modern resort, its beach is home to a variety of watersports as well as horse and camel riding. Agadir can be a lively resort with many bars and restaurants and a great deal of entertainment, however it also offers a quieter district for those in search of relaxation.

Just south of Agadir, where the Souss River flows to the Atlantic, estuarine mud flats are home to a staggering 414 species of birds including greater flamingo, cormorants, little egret, bald ibis (in winter months) and black winged stilts. Best sightings are Feb-April and Sep-Nov. For something a little special, Imouzzer is a paradise like valley lined with towering palms and just 35 miles north east of Agadir whilst the nearby Berber village is renowned for its honey production and is celebrated.

ESSAOUIRA

One of the most beautiful Atlantic coastal towns, Essaouira is famous for its laidback atmosphere and long, sandy beach. Intimate and romantic, this seaside resort is a great choice for a relaxing break. The town has enjoyed a great love affair with the film industry having been the setting of Orson Welles’ Othello and Ridley Scott’s Kingdom of Heaven and after being frequented by the likes of Hendrix and Jefferson Airplane, Essaouira has become a ‘hip’ place to stay.

Today, going through a great revival Essaouira is now home to a number of chic boutique hotels, maison d’hotes and riads and is quickly becoming Morocco’s sought after beach destination, where you’ll find photographers, artists and the rich and famous making the most of the cooling winds of the Atlantic, its proximity to Marrakech, and the great atmosphere.



Morocco boasts a large number of international airports, most notably those at Rabat, Marrakech, Casablanca and Tangier. Flights from the UK to Morocco will take somewhere in the region of 3 hours.




Some of the more popular destinations on a holiday in Morocco include the cities of Agadir, Rabat, Casablanca, Marrakech, Tangier and Fez. Each has its own distinct flavour however, meaning that no two holidays to Morocco are going to be the same experience. Many of the coastal cities also boast fantastic beaches, and water sports are a regular attraction on holidays to Morocco.

Lovers of culture will be delighted by the wide array of museums, galleries and striking architecture that are on offer across this unique country; and with a history that has featured occupation by civilizations as diverse as the Romans, Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Jews and Arabs, you will have the chance to admire a broad range of complimentary styles and influences.




This same unique blend is apparent in Moroccan cuisine, which uses a diverse range of ingredients, including rich spices, Mediterranean fruits and fresh red meats. Should you travel to Marrakech during your holiday in Morocco, be sure to visit the breathtaking market at Djemaa El Fna to experience Moroccan cuisine at its finest. During the day this bustling market place is filled with a heady blend of fakirs, snake charmers and market stalls, but at night, it really comes to life as the food stalls open for business; you’ll have the chance to try hot stewed tagines, crisp salads, sweet pastries and curious delicacies, such as deep fried eel.




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Casablanca Beach

Immortalized in the film of the same name, Casablanca has, for many, a romantic and mystical attraction. In reality, however, modern Casablanca is a city with little time for romance; It is a contemporary urban sprawl of vibrant boulevards and noisy mists. Its port, which gradually progressed under French colonialism in the first half of the 20th century, is still one of the busiest in the region; Its financial center welcomes banks and international companies; And its global atmosphere is business-driven and forward-looking. For visitors, this is a good place to enjoy North Africa.



The best of the many beaches within easy reach of the city center is Ain Diab, on the edge of the chic suburb of Anfa, which has a completely urban atmosphere: cafes and beach clubs bordering the Boulevard de la Corniche Sea are the den of Young trend creators and local celebrities. While some people swim in the ocean here, it is often noisy and rough; The pools of beach clubs and beachfront hotels are a better and smarter bet. The clubs offer a membership for the day for visitors and some of the hotels will allow entry to non-residents for a fee.

The boulevards and apartment blocks with palm trees of Casablanca could have been transplanted from Marseille, but under the European veneer, a city is proud of its Maghreb culture. The main landmark is the huge Hassan II Mosque (Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah Boulevard), the largest outside Mecca, with a 200m (656 foot) minaret and a room for 25,000 faithful; Exceptionally for a Moroccan mosque, it is open to non-Muslim visitors. The artistic decoration buildings of the area around the place Mohammed V, meticulously arranged by colonial French in the 1930s, were added by the Moroccan modernists in the 1950s.

While Casablanca has few dedicated facilities for family visits, large hotels can offer beds, babysittings and children-friendly menus on request. Some hotels also have swimming pools, which can be a big hit for big and small children.

The capital of Morocco, Rabat, where you can admire some of the most impressive Arab monuments in Morocco, dating from the Almohad and Merenid dynasties. Highlights are the astonishing minaret of the Almohad mosque and the pretty ruins of Chellah, with Islamic tombs dating from the 13th century alongside the remains of a Roman forum and temple founded in 200 BC.

For a lunch to remember, treat yourself to a table in one of the best restaurants of the city, A Ma Bretagne (boulevard Ocà © e, Atlantique, Sidi Abderrahmane), which serves superb French-Moroccan dishes in a beautiful property. Seafront surrounded by well-kept private gardens. The ever-changing menu makes full use of local ingredients such as argan oil (with a delicate, slightly hazelnut flavor) and freshly caught fish, lobster, shrimp and squid

Casablanca beaches

Casablanca beaches 

Immortalisé dans le film du même nom, Casablanca a, pour beaucoup, un attrait romantique et mystique. En réalité, cependant, Casablanca moderne est une ville avec peu de temps pour la romance; C'est une étalement urbain contemporain et dynamique de boulevards animés et de brouillards bruyants. Son port, qui a progressivement progressé sous le colonialisme français dans la première moitié du 20ème siècle, est toujours l'un des plus occupés de la région; Son centre financier accueille des banques et des sociétés internationales; Et son atmosphère globale est axée sur les entreprises et tournée vers l'avenir. Pour les visiteurs, c'est un bon endroit pour profiter de l'Afrique du Nord.

Casablanca beaches 

La meilleure des nombreuses plages à portée de main du centre-ville est Ain Diab, au bord de la banlieue chic d'Anfa, qui a une ambiance complètement urbaine: les cafés et les clubs de plage bordant le boulevard de la Corniche en bord de mer sont le repaire de Les jeunes créateurs de tendances et les célébrités locales. Alors que certains habitants nagent dans l'océan ici, il est souvent bruyant et rugueux; Les piscines des clubs de plage et les hôtels en bord de mer sont un pari meilleur et plus intelligent. Les clubs offrent une adhésion à la journée pour les visiteurs et certains des hôtels permettront l'entrée à des non-résidents moyennant des frais.

Casablanca beaches 

Les boulevards et les blocs d'appartements doués de palmiers de Casablanca auraient pu être transplantés de Marseille, mais sous le placage européen, une ville est fière de sa culture maghrébine. Le point de repère principal est l'immense mosquée Hassan II (boulevard Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah), le plus grand à l'extérieur de la Mecque, avec un minaret de 200m (656 pieds) et une salle pour 25 000 fidèles; Exceptionnellement pour une mosquée marocaine, elle est ouverte aux visiteurs non-musulmans. Les bâtiments artistiques de déco de la région autour de l'endroit Mohammed V, méticuleusement aménagés par le français colonial dans les années 1930, ont été ajoutés par les modernistes marocains dans les années 1950.

Alors que Casablanca a peu d'installations dédiées pour visiter les familles, les grands hôtels peuvent proposer des lits, des babysittings et des menus adaptés aux enfants sur demande. Certains hôtels disposent également de piscines, ce qui peut être un grand succès pour les grands et les petits enfants.

La capitale du Maroc, Rabat, où vous pourrez admirer certains des monuments arabes les plus impressionnants au Maroc, datant des dynasties almohade et merenid. Les points forts sont le minaret étonnant de la mosquée Almohad et les jolies ruines de Chellah, avec des tombes islamiques datant du 13ème siècle aux côtés des restes d'un forum et d'un temple romains fondés en 200 CB.

Casablanca beaches 

Pour un déjeuner à retenir, livrez-vous une table dans l'un des meilleurs restaurants de la ville, A Ma Bretagne (boulevard Oc & eacute, Atlantique, Sidi Abderrahmane), qui sert de superbes plats franco-marocains dans une belle propriété en bord de mer entourée de Jardins privés bien entretenus. Le menu en constante évolution utilise pleinement les ingrédients locaux tels que l'huile d'argan (avec une saveur délicate et légèrement noisette) et des poissons fraîchement pêchés, du homard, des crevettes et des calmars

International Festival of Raj of Oujda: The exquisite and venerable Latifa Raafat opens the ball

International Festival of Raj of Oujda: The exquisite and venerable Latifa Raafat opens the ball

Oujda- Exquisite and venerable, the diva of the Moroccan song Latifa Raafat opened Saturday evening at the Theater Mohammed VI the ball of the 10th edition of the International Festival of the Raï of Oujda (FIRO), offering to its music lovers a pleasant A musical moment, punctuated by the warmth of its timbre, the diversity of its repertory and the sympathy of its presence.
The singer, refined in style, has managed to create a contagious energy that gives an immediate impression of delicacy. It has thus sublimated the audience orjdi who has moved en masse to attend its concert, with a view to express with fervor the feelings of admiration and affection that they dedicate to their favorite star.

Subjugated and conquered, the festival-goers who already learned his songs by heart, were in complete osmosis with the diva who did not fail to interpret brilliantly an anthology of his tubes drawn from his rich classical Moroccan repertoire, notably his famous titles, "Walou", "Maghyara", "Kouna W Kentou", "Twahachtek Bezaf" and "Awah Awah".
In keeping with the spirit of the FIRO and its vocation to promote cultural diversity, Latifa Raafat's concert was preceded, in the first part, by a performance by Aïn Beni Mathar's troupe under the Al Houria association. Dressed in white Takchitas (traditional Moroccan costumes) and equipped with bendirs, the women adorned with their most beautiful jewels, made their entrance with jerks accompanied by dances.
The troupe swung back and forth to the sound of an improvised chant. A musical theme that embroiders, a rhythm that takes hold of it immediately, giving it a form and a rigid contexture that the dance makes more flexible.
At a press conference held shortly before her concert, Latifa Raafat expressed her joy at being able to perform for the third time in Oujda in a festival that has managed to stand out, highlighting the place of the Moroccan song that has succeeded To preserve its identity.
Considered to be one of the greatest icons of music in the Arab world, the singer expressed her pride in remaining faithful to the style of the authentic Moroccan song that has established her notoriety on the Arab scene. She has always favored the choice of sincere words and refined melodies, ensuring its authenticity.
Throughout her artistic career, she has worked with great Moroccan musicians such as Abdelati Ammana, Jamal Al Amjad, Mohmoud El Idrissi and Ahmed Alaoui. She has also managed to raise the flag of Moroccan music as well as that of beauty and refinement in all countries of the Maghreb and the Middle East.
Named the new muse of a Swedish cosmetic brand and ambassador beauty, the icon of the Moroccan song offered a performance of magic and finesse, captivating the audience, who long praised, expressing his admiration for the quality of the show.
Native of Kenitra, Latifa has one of the finest discographies of the Moroccan song with titles such as "Donia", "Al Hamdo Li Llah", "Ya Hali Ya Aachrani" or "Ana fi Arek Ya Yama".
The opening ceremony of this festival, held under the patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI and organized by the Oujda Arts Association, was attended by the president of the Oriental Regional Council, the wali And the Ambassador of India, Dinesh Kuamar Patnaik, and was marked by a special tribute to the President of the EU-Morocco Friendship Group , Gilles Pargneaux.
For eight days, this 10th edition will bring together a wide range of artists of all genres, including big names from the Moroccan and Pan-Arab stage, in addition to internationally renowned stars, offering festival-goers an original, rich and eclectic programming that offers A striking overview of the musical creation Raï, spread on the stage of honor and stage scene Ziri Ibn Atia.
Models of caftans and takchita for brides 2016

Models of kaftans and takchita for brides 2017

Here are photos of a selection of 30 new models of caftans, collections 2017.

Patterns of caftans for the tessdira of brides presented at the Grand Salon of the Oriental Marriage, which took place in Paris, in November, and of which we spoke in a previous article here.

Models of caftans and takchita for brides 2017

Models of caftans and takchita for brides 2017
While for a few years, models of kaftans inspired by the outfits carried in the series hareem Al sultan, were particularly prized. We note in 2016, two strong trends emerging:

The fashion is to the caftans very worked, very (or too) loaded
The influence hareem Al sultan on our traditional outfits and tessdira of brides tends to be less marked or even less present, replaced by a return in force of Bollywood fashion
Models of caftans and takchita for brides 2017
When are the tessdira outfits Algerian, influenced by the Algerian tradition ...?

Models of caftan 2017 for brides.
Very (too) loaded caftans

Some models of caftans are really too busy, many overlays of fabrics and embroideries with imposing metallic gold or silver belts. This type of models can only be worn by the bride for her tessdira

Models of caftans and takchita for brides 2017 models of caftans and takchita for brides 2017
Models of caftans and takchita for brides 2017
Swarovski stones, embroideries and gallons in abundance


Models of caftans 2016-2017, inspired by the Indian sari

Models of caftans and takchita for brides 2017

A clear Indian influence for some models of caftans. Bollywood is back in fashion.


Models of caftans and takchita for brides 2017


Some models are more traditional and revive with what we usually see during Algerian or Moroccan weddings.


Models of caftans and takchita for brides 2017

Silk or fluid materials, ornamented with some embroidery. Some models of the caftans and takchita of these 2016 collections escape the fashion of the over-loaded!

Models of caftans and takchita for brides 2017

Models of caftans and takchita for brides 2017
Models of caftans and takchita for brides 2017
Some of these caftan models are both tailored enough to be worn by the bride on the day of her tessdira without being overloaded with embroidery and the like, so they can also be worn on other occasions.

Models of caftans and takchita for brides 2017

Models of caftans and takchita for brides 2017

modèles de caftans et takchita pour mariées 2016

Voici en photos une sélection de 30 nouveaux modèles de caftans, des collections 2016.

Des modèles de caftans pour les tessdira de mariées présentés lors du Grand Salon du Mariage Oriental, qui s’est déroulé à Paris, au mois de novembre, et dont nous avions parlé dans un précédent article ici.

Alors que depuis quelques années, les modèles de caftans inspirés des tenues portées dans la série hareem Al sultan, étaient particulièrement prisés. l’on remarque en 2016, deux fortes tendances qui se dégagent :

• La mode est aux caftans très travaillés, très (ou trop ) chargés

• l’influence hareem Al sultan sur nos tenues traditionnelles et tessdira de mariées tend à être moins marquée, voire moins présente, remplacée par un retour en force de la mode Bollywood

À quand les tenues de tessdira algériennes, influencées par la tradition algérienne … ?

Modèles de caftan 2016 pour mariées.
Des caftans très (trop) chargés

Certains modèles de caftans sont vraiment trop chargés, beaucoup de superpositions de tissus et de broderies avec d’imposantes ceintures métalliques Or ou argentées. Ce type de modèles ne peuvent être portés que par la mariée pour sa tessdira

Des pierres Swarovsky, des broderies et gallons à profusion

 

Des modèles de caftans 2015-2016, inspirés des sari indiens

Une nette influence indienne pour certains modèles de caftans. Bollywood est de nouveau à la mode.

 

 

 

Certains modèles sont plus traditionnels et renouent avec ce que l’on a l’habitude de voir durant les mariages algériens ou marocains.

 

 

De la soie ou des matières fluides, ornementées de quelques broderies. Certains modèles des caftans et takchita de ces collections 2016 échappent à la mode du trop-chargé !

Certains de ces modèles de caftans sont à la fois assez travaillés pour être portés par la mariée le jour de sa tessdira sans être surchargés en broderies et autres, de sorte qu’ils peuvent aussi être portés en d’autres occasions.

 

 

 

 

Quant aux caftans blancs qui sont souvent réservés à la mariée, en voici deux modèles

Moroccan recipes: Desserts & other recipes

Greetings, all, and welcome to today's chat! Hope you're enjoying all our recent coverage, including Tim Carman's gorgeous profile of the inimitable Joan Nathan; Julia Turshen's outstanding selection of recipes using our favorite spring ingredients; Paula Shoyer's take on pies for Passover; and more.

We have a real treat today: The wonderful Joan Nathan herself is joining our chat! Now's your chance to hit her with any question you might have related to Jewish -- or any other -- cooking! And the fantastic Julia Turshen will be joining us, too, and she can handle anything. 

And we regulars are no slouches, either, but you knew that. ;-) 

We'll have giveaway books for our favorite chatters: a SIGNED copy of Joan's new book, "King Solomon's Table," and "Everyday Seafood" by Nathan Outlaw, source of this week's Dinner in Minutes.

For you PostPoints members, here is this week's code: FR6226 . Remember, you'll record and enter it into the PostPoints site under Claim My Points to earn points. The code expires at midnight, so be sure to enter the code by 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday to get credit for participating.

OK, let's do this!

Hi! I bought a bag of shredded red cabbage to put on fish tacos last night. Made the tacos, but totally forgot about the cabbage until after dinner. Now I have a bag of unopened, nicely shredded red cabbage in the fridge and I have no idea what to do with it. Thoughts?? Thanks!

Sounds to me like a good excuse to make more fish tacos! You can also make a lovely, easy slaw or try substituting it for the radicchio in this 'All Red Salad'.  I also love tossing shredded cabbage with olive oil and salt and then roasting it at 425 until it's wilted and charred and then serving it as a side dish or folding it into an easy rice pilaf (there's a recipe for this in Small Victories).

When I saw the article on spring vegetables and then saw asparagus, I immediately thought of risotto. Unfortunately I seem to be risotto challenged. I've tried multiple recipes - stir constantly, almost no stir,etc., and I've spent the money for real risotto rice but none seem to end up with the kind of creamy delight I can find in restaurants. Do you have any suggestions for my next batch? What are your favorite methods for making it?

Oh an asparagus risotto would be wonderful! I learned to make risotto from the great chef Jody Williams when I worked with her on Buvette cookbook.  Here's her recipe which describes her technique.  I would follow those instructions and then fold in thinly sliced asparagus at the end with the components of the Italian version of my Shaved Asparagus Salad (so, pine nuts and Parmesan cheese).  I bet it'll be delicious.  You can also stir in a big spoonful of creme fraiche or marscarpone at the end to make it extra creamy and really stir it in aggressively to get all the starch in the rice to make itself known.

Many, many thanks to Post staff and readers who answered my question last week about which models of kitchen aid mixer to purchase. I'm still pondering the possibilities and aspects I had not considered (such as whether a mixer will fit between my countertop and cabinets,) and your advice is more helpful than I can express. Free Range is more than an online discussion - it is a community for which I am both grateful and proud to be a part. Thank you.

Vintage Moroccan Berber Runner 47909

A fascinating series of reds delights in this starkly simple mid-century Moroccan carpet.

Vintage Moroccan Berber Runner Rug, Country of Origin: Morocco, Circa Date: Mid-20th Century – Here is an intriguing vintage carpet – a mid-century Moroccan Berber runner, boasting a beautiful and straightforward design of gently contrasting tones. Brilliantly understated, this vintage Moroccan Berber carpet is an intriguing example of the power of minimalist design – for despite its non-embellished field, this carpet possesses a dynamic energy. With irregular bands of various shades of reds and red-browns appearing at seemingly random intervals, this carpet offers surprises and delights as the eye travels over it, all without distracting with any sort of decoration. Tremendously versatile, an authentic mid-century Moroccan runner such as this pleasing example suit an incredible range of interiors, from more classically composed spaces, to more mid-century modern geared interiors. A fascinating series of reds delights in this starkly simple mid-century Moroccan carpet.





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View Our Extensive Collection of Moroccan Berber Rugs

Moroccan Berber Rugs are unique and have a fascinating history as one of the most celebrated folk art rug styles. Moroccan Berber Rugs have been in continuous manufacture  since the seventh century A.D. From the very first example, the weaving of Moroccan Berber Rugs was the responsibility of the Berber women. Berber women were responsible for keeping and passing down the knowledge that went into making theses rugs, including secrets of family patterns, looping techniques, and the colors that should be used. All of this knowledge was passed down matrilineally, with each subsequent generation of girls being responsible for passing it on to the next. Berber carpets were used within tribal groups as blankets, horse covers, and a wide array of other utilities.

Over the centuries, Moroccan Berber Rugs gradually evolved. Eventually, demand for such carpets began to come from outside of Morocco. Moroccan Berber Rugs began to be seen as especially good gifts, with fine examples being placed in palaces and important sites throughout Europe and the Near East. Still more time passed, and, soon, Berber carpets were exceptionally popular wherever they could be found. The current renewed interest in mid-century modern works of art has returned vintage Berber carpets and Moroccan rugs to the forefront of the rug world once again, with the Moroccan shag rug style enjoying popularity. Today, vintage Berber carpets are among the more popular style of vintage rugs on the market.

Moroccan Berber Rugs, conceived of and woven by the Beni Ourain tribes-people of the Atlas Mountains, are one of the great cultural contributions Morocco has given to the world. These unique and beautiful works of art, with their exciting, energetic and enigmatic compositions entice us just as much today as they have enticed consumers for centuries. The all natural process that results in Moroccan Berber Rugs rugs utilizes local sheep’s wool and local vegetable dyes – making such pieces inherently Eco-friendly.

Moroccan Berber Rugs – Berber rugs and carpets from Morocco are part of North Africa’s famous ethnic tribe weaving. The Moroccan Berber rugs are among the most prestigious modernist and folk art rugs in the world.

Woven from luxurious hand-spun wool, Berber rugs feature bold designs and incomparable textures. The Atlas and rugged, remote peaks of Morocco are home to a tenacious ethnic group known as the Berbers.

Now more than 25 million strong, the Berbers represent dozens of distinctive tribes. Even the renowned Beni Ourain group represents more than one dozen smaller tribes (about 17 of them) that each has its own symbolic dialect and weaving style.

Mid-century Moroccan Berber carpets are as unique and individual as the weavers who created them. The colors, patterns and woven designs are inextricably linked to the isolated villages where they originate.

In the Middle Atlas region, weavers create an amazing variety of geometric patterns, symbolic figures and plain weave stripes. Berber rugs represent a complete repertoire of Moroccan rug styles that includes flat-weave kilims, plush shag carpets, colorful fleecy carpets and posh monochromatic rugs decorated with minimalist designs and abstract patterns.

The stunning Berber rugs of North Africa are as popular today as they were during the mid-20th century when elite European designers first discovered their alluring beauty.

In addition, the older and vintage carpets that were made by the Berber tribes people are still considerably less expensive than almost any other type of carpet – even those that are new and contemporary! This makes them great decorative carpets that could be purchased and appreciated by people from all walks of life.

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The Little Atlas and Djbel (Montane)Sahara.

The Little Atlas and Djbel (Montane)Sahara.


Reg An inhospitable environment but here supporting a species of Acacia and desert hardy Deverra tortuosa
The Sahara desert is essentially a desert of herbs and small shrubs with larger shrubs and trees where moisture levels are higher. The dwarf-shrub community in the north comprises shrubs of less than 1m. in height (usually about 50 cm.)as dominants. The bushes are often widely spaced, with a considerable amount of bare stony ground between the clumps which gives the vegetation a very parched appearance in the summers. Typical plants are Zizyphus lotus, Ziziphus spina-christi, Tamarix spp., Acacia spp., Moringa aptera, Salvadora persica, Thymus spp., Artemisia herba-alba, Noaea mucronata, Helianthemum spp., BRaetama retam, Periploca aphylla, Suaeda spp., Salsola spp, Atriplex spp., Ephedra alata, Haloxylon articulatum, Pistacia atlantica and Achillea santolina.

In steppe areas where the scrub vegetation is hardly developed desert grasses of a multiplicity of species are the climax vegetation. Ephemerals are common in the north, halophytes in the sandy areas. Succulent plants are uncommon. The sandy desert has virtually no vegetation. With rain vegetation increases in wadis (oueds - vallies, gullies, or streambeds that remain dry except during the rainy season),depressions and wherever runoff water augments rainfall. The soils of the Sahara are formed of rock debris and desert detritus and are very weakly developed. The characteristic species of these true desert areas which decrease as desert scrub becomes reg and then sandy desert are:- 'Faidherbia albida, A.raddiana, A. seyal, A. tortilis, Achillea santolina, Alyssum macrocalyx, Anabasis aretoides, A. articulata, Androcymbium punctataum, Aristoides coerulescens, Aristida pungens, Artemisia herba-alba, A. monosperma, Astragulus tribuloides, Atriplex halimus, Balanites aegyptiaca, Caligonum comosum, Caltropis procera, Cenchrus ciliaris, Citrullus colocynthus, Danthonia forskalii, Ephedra alata, Euphorbia guyoniana, Deverra scoparia [1], D. chloranthus, Linaria aegyptica,Annarrhinum fruticosum [2], Haloxylon guyonianum, Maerua crassifolia, Nerium oleander, Olea europaea, Panicum turgidum, Phoenix dactylifera, Populus euphratica Populus euphratica, Prosopis stephaniana, Rhus oxyacanthae, Roetboellia hirsuta, Salsola foetida, S.inermis, Salvadora persica, Stipa tortilis, Suaeda fruticosa, S.vermiculata, Tamarix articulata, Zilla spinosa, Zygophyllum Zygophyllum coccineum, Z. decumbens, Z' dumosum, and Capparis spinosa.

list of native plants of morocco

Morocco provides a refuge for a rich and diverse flora with about 4,200 taxa, of which 22% (879 taxa) are endemic.[1] The phytogeographic zones of Morocco comprise 8 zones: the Mediterranean zone (central 0–500m, middle 500-1,000m and upper 1,100-1500m), the Cedar zone (1000-2000m), the sub-Alpine zone (2,000-2,500m), the Alpine zone (2,500m+), the semi-desert scrub zone, the Reg , the sandy desert zone and the oases.

Maquis and Garrique Mediterranean dry woodlands and steppe, Mediterranean woodlands and forests, lower Northern slopes of Rif and Tell Atlas.

The climax of the Mediterranean coast is a well-developed maquis commonly associated with Clematis, Smilax, Lonicera and Asparagus. Except in innaccessible or protected places the vegetation has been heavily grazed by domestic animals and this degraded maquis, called garrigue, is widespread. Poterium spinosum, various Salvia and Cistus are the dominant plants of the garrigue.A prominent feature of the coastal vegetation is the presence of a large exotic flora: Casuarina, Eucalyptus , Citrus, loquat and Opuntia ficus indica are examples. Several species of steppe Acacia are common elements. The cultivated area which is extensive is wholly artificial and imported plants dominate the landscape. The meadows, orchards and wetter places in the maquis support such plants as fennel.


Quercus suber the Cork Oak, a typical Mediterranean plant
Characteristic plants are Pinus halepensis, Erica arborea, Arbutus unedo, Pistacia lentiscus, Myrtus communis, Clematis cirrhosa, Asparagus acutifolius, Phlomis viscosa, Scilla autumnalis and Scilla peruviana, Narcissus tazetta, Iris palaestina, Colchicum stevenii, Arisarum vulgare , Quercus coccifera, Quercus ilex, Ceratonia siliqua, Pistacia atlantica, Pistacia terebinthus, Crataegus azarolus, Amygdalus communis, Rhamnus alaternus Nerprun alaterne, Cistus spp., especially Cistus monspeliensis, Cistus laurifolius and Cistus salviifolius, Juniperinus phoenicea, Phlomis spp. (Phlomis lychnitis), Helichrysum italicum, Salvia spp.,[2] Satureia spp.,[3] Poterium spp., Arabis spp., Reseda spp., Aristolochia pallida, A. boetica, A. longa paucinervis, A. fontanesi, A.rotunda, A.pistolochia fr:Aristoloche pistoloche , Lavandula stoechas Jasminium fruticans and Brassica spp.

Morocco offers much more than just long stretches of arid desert

Morocco offers much more than just long stretches of arid desert. Visit this North African country not only for its rich history, vibrant culture and long-standing traditions, but also for the beauty and intrigue of its landscape and wilderness. With more than 40 different ecosystems, Morocco is home to great animal and plant life diversity. Many of the animals in the country are endangered, in part to city expansion, but national parks and preserves as well as vast expanses of forest allow for numerous mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians.


Morocco's coastline stretches along both the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Coastal cities like Tangiers, Casablanca, Essaouira and Safi offer plenty of opportunities for tourists to view marine life, including dolphins, porpoises, sea birds and the extremely endangered Mediterranean monk seal. Souss-Massa National Park, a bird refuge, sits along the River Massa, which runs into the Atlantic Ocean. The endangered bald ibis is one of the park's frequent visitors. The river itself is home to large populations of ducks, including the marbled duck and the red-crested pochard, as well as mammals like the Algerian hedgehog, brown hare and African wild cat and a host of reptiles and amphibians.

Desert Wildlife
The western Sahara lies within Morocco and despite its extreme heat during the daylight hours, it is home to a wide variety of animal species. Tourists taking camel-trekking tours of the Moroccan desert may get the chance to see animals like the Dorcas gazelle, the smallest gazelle in the world, or the Fennec fox, the smallest fox in the world. These animals are often most active in the early mornings and the evenings, staying hidden during the day because of the scorching temperatures. Other Moroccan desert animals include rodents, snakes, gerbils, golden jackals, addax and lizards.

Atlas and Rif Mountains
Morocco's Atlas and Rif mountains were once home to the Barbary lion, now nearly extinct. Parc Zoologique National in Morocco's capital city, Rabat has a breeding program for this lion species. If you plan to take part in a mountain trekking tour, you may get an opportunity to see other indigenous, mountain-residing creatures like the Barbary macaque, a primate; wild boars; eagles; cardinals; lizards and butterflies.

Plant Life in Morocco
Morocco is home to diverse plant species that are found all throughout the country. Visitors to the coastal regions will likely encounter plants like casuarina, eucalyptus, loquat and acacia. Morocco's mountainous areas are home to forest plants and trees, including the cork oak, evergreen oak, holm oak, juniper, cedar, fir and pine. Visit the plains to find cork oaks, olive trees, argan-thorny trees, scrub brush and alfalfa grass.

Moroccan clothing

In cities with medinas the used clothes are more traditional, but still there are those who view much like the European.

In terms of traditional clothing, the djellaba is one of the most important pieces of Moroccan clothing. It is a traditional piece, wide, long and wide sleeves, which can be used by both men and women. It's kind of robe that may also have capucho with pointy tip, which protects from the sun and cold.

The djellabas can be made of wool or cotton, with different colors (men opt for very light colors), depending on the taste of each person. But traditionally, the colors chosen among the tribes, may indicate marital status, for example. The dark brown is used by bachelors.

The kaftan is another kind of tunic widely used, but mainly by Moroccan women. They can be simple day-to-day parts, but also are more produced for special events such as weddings and parties. The models of the kaftan have been adopted and are an inspiration for many designers of haute couture.

In the markets of the cities there are many stores selling traditional Moroccan clothing. They have many embroidery and different colors, shirts, dresses, kaftans and djellaba. Lots of variety, both for men and for women.

The clothes are normally all long and wide, but many women wear belts - made in the same fabric clothing to adelgaçarem silhouette at parties. On the street simply use the loose, comfortable clothing. Although the models look alike, they are always different pieces, with coordinated colors depending on the taste of each person.

But not only. There are also scarves and turbans of different colors and sizes. The latter are used both to heat and to protect the head on hot days or during the crossings in the desert.

And may the colors have any meaning. The desert Berbers use indigo blue turban, because they consider that protect them from evil spirits. While in the desert, also use them to cover the face, leaving only the eyes showing, to protect the strong sandstorms.

The shoes use a lot sandals and also the typical babouches. Comfortable shoes and made leather.

Fez (hairstyle)

the Fez

The fez (Arabic: فاس / FAS "Fez" Morocco's capital until 1927; Turkish: Fes) or tarbouche (Arabic: طربوش / ṭarbūš) is a hat male felt, often red, conical truncated, adorned with a black tassel attached to the top. This cap without edge, from ancient Greece, was adopted by many ethnic and religious groups during the following centuries and especially in the Ottoman Empire in the nineteenth century. In its long history, the fez was worn by many peoples, including the Greeks, Arabs, North Africans, Turks and various Muslim populations. Today, it is increasingly rare to see worn.

A variant of the fez was used by the Turkish army between etxviiie fifteenth centuries. He was then made of a metal cap around which was fastened a metal mesh to protect the neck and upper shoulders. The fez, probably padded, exceeded the cap of 2.5 to 5 cm, and served as protection against projectiles. He could also be surrounded by a turban. The red fez with a blue tassel was the hairstyle of the Turkish army from the 1840s until the introduction in 1910 of the khaki uniform and helmet without a visor. The only notable exceptions were the cavalry and artillery, the soldiers wore lambskin hats adorned with colorful fabric, and Albanian regiments who wore a white fez. During World War II, the fez is worn by naval reserve units and sometimes by soldiers on leave.

Otto I, King of Greece, in the garb
of Evzones (c. 1835).

The regiments of the Greek army said Evzones (Light Infantry) had their own version of the fez, from 1837 to World War II. Today, it is part of the parade uniform of the presidential guard in Athens.

In the nineteenth century, the fez is widely used as uniforms of soldiers recruited locally in the settlements. French troops in North Africa, created as a result of the conquest of Algeria in 1831, wore similar headgear but not rigid: the fez, traditional hairstyle African troops. In felted woolen cloth of crimson, purplish, it became characteristic of the Zouaves (initially formed troupe of Algerian Kabyle soldiers, but exclusively European in 1842) as Algerian and Tunisian riflemen, African Hunters (mainly European ) as Algerian and Tunisian spahis and finally the body of native artillery troop.

Zouave soldier during the Crimean War (1853-1856).

During British rule (1858-1947), two Indian regiments recruited in Muslim areas wore fez (although the turban is widespread among the sepoys (in) and sowars, both Hindus and Muslims). LesKing's African Rifles English (recruited since 1902 in British East Africa) had red and black striped fez, while the Royal West African Frontier Force had smaller red. The Egyptian army had the classic Turkish model until 1950. The army regiment Caribbean britanniqueportait the fez as an integral element of his uniform until the unit was disbanded in 1928. The tradition maintained in the regiment of Barbados, with white turban wound around the base.

Belgian Public Force in the Congo (1885-1908) had large fez similar to those of the Senegalese riflemen or Companhias Portuguese Indigenas. LesAskaris in German East Africa (1885-1919) wore their khaki fez on all occasions. The regiments in the service of Italy from Somalia and Eritrea (colonialisées 1889) had high red fezzes adorned with pompons match the color of the unit. Libyan battalions and squadrons of the Italian colonial army wore smaller red fez with white caps. On European soil, infantry Bosnian Muslims (the Bosnisch-hercegovinische Infantry (de)) established in the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy in 1882, was characterized by the wearing of the fez in La Première World War. In World War II, the 13th Mountain Division SS Handschar, recruited from among the Bosnian Muslims, were also fez.

Soldiers of the 13th Waffen Mountain
 Division of the SS Handschar,
 reading an educational booklet,
Islam and Judaism (southern France, summer 1943).

The fez is a colorful and picturesque part of the uniform. However, it is impractical, and at different points of view. It must be covered, otherwise serve as a target to enemy fire, and provides little protection against the sun. Therefore, it was gradually relegated to parades or required permission during World War II. He was replaced by wide-brimmed hats or straw hats for other occasions. However, the colonial police continued to consider the military fez hat as for the natives.

The armies from colonization were fairly quickly freed from fez. However, it is still worn in the Red Guards in Senegal ceremonial uniforms as part of their holding spahi type and in some cases by Italian Bersaglieri (created in 1836). They adopted the fez as informal hairstyle through the influence of zouavesfrançais, alongside whom they fought in the Crimean War (1853-1856). Spanish Regulares (created in 1911 and composed of Moors) stationed in the Spanish enclaves in Morocco, Ceuta and Melilla have a dress uniform including traditional fez and white coat. The Border Forces of Liberia, independent since 1847, although not a colonial army, wore the fez until the 1940s the Philippines units briefly wore a black fez, the beginning of the dominance of the United States ( Originated in the years 1889-1899). A green fez was worn by fire hose Bahawalpur in Pakistan in the late 1960s.

Traditional dress of Morocco

Morocco is the gem of the North Africa having coastlines on both the North Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Morocco has tremendous culture due to the inhabitation of the multi-ethnic population. While traveling to Morocco, the colors of indigenous Berber community and Jewish and Muslim populace can easily be observed. The country is a reasonably huge country and its every part has its own cultural recognition. A Berber woman in her traditional dress ( Image: Angelas Travels ) A Berber woman in her traditional dress ( Image: Angelas Travels ) The Moroccan society is not conservative because Morocco is a peaceful and tourist friendly country. Morocco has no particular rules and regulation about the clothing but the Moroccans have kept alive the custom to wear the traditional dress of Morocco. A random capture of the Moroccons in their traditional dresses- Allan Old's Image Moroccans are overall a stylish and smart nation and they prefer to dress up with fashionable and impressive clothing. Both men and women wear a same traditional attire which is called djellaba; a long, loose, hooded garment with full sleeves.

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A Moroccon girl wearing traditional dress - Angelas Travels

The women of Morocco also wear Caftan or Kaftan which is without a hood unlike the djellaba. This dress is particularly decorated with the typical woman embroidery upon the dress openings and arms. Kaftan is usually worn on the festive occasions and wedding ceremonies by the Moroccan women.

Another traditional cloak made with a delicate fabric and mostly in white color is known as “Haik” which is used by the Moroccan village women. In addition to thatGandora is also used by the Moroccan women which have heavy and fancy stitching and adornments.

A pretty Moroccon woman dressed up with the ceremonial dress - ReebA's photo

For all of the Moroccan women the bright colored silks and other dainty fabrics are favorites. The craftsmen and tailors apply their special skills to make the women dresses attractive and graceful. The women of high class also use a traditional belt which has golden embroidery and exquisite decorations along the edges.

A Moroccon man wearing the traditional outfit and Fez - Grete Howard's Image

 Abernousse is a traditional red cap for the Moroccan men which they normally use in special occasions. Abernousse is commonly referred to as a Fez. Both men and women use Balgha, the typical Moroccan slippers without heels and often dyed with yellow.

A Moroccon water seller in his traditional costume - Richard Sharrocks image

The traditional dress of Morocco is the true reflection of the charming and fascinated Moroccan heritage. People of every class in Morocco are very conscious about their dress codes. The traditional loose fitting outfits are commonly worn by the folk artists during their presentations while the modern Moroccan population is also much influenced with the Western style of dressing.

A Moroccon Belly Dancer in her traditional dancing costume - Thomas Grim's Image