Episodes
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Dan & Cierra McPherson travelled to Morocco with Destination Morocco and discovered far more than a generic tour experience. From secret stops to amazing cubbyhole restaurants, they received an authentic, unique exposure to Morocco’s people and culture.
Cierra & Dan had a tall order for Destination Morocco when they got in touch with Azdean, looking to travel to Morocco just a short time later. They wanted to see as much of the country as possible, but over just 11 days. Could it be done?
This episode recounts their journey. Thanks to Azdean and his team, these world travellers had an experience that ranked with the best of their many destinations.
Hear their stories about enjoying Tangia stew, Moroccan bread, and yes, a dish that consists of cooking (then eating) an entire sheep: head, eyes and all, that has been slow-cooked in a hole in the ground (Shoua).
They met Khalil, the blind tour guide of Hassan II Mosque, whom you've heard numerous guests rave about on the podcast. Their guide used his connections to allow them early access to the mosque, before the regular crowds arrived.
In Chefchaouen they sampled fresh peanuts, boiled in honey, and freshly-squeezed orange juice on the walk up to the Spanish mosque overlooking the city.
Thanks to their flexible schedule and efficient transport, they were able to visit both Volubilis and the camel hump town of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun on the same day, when most tour groups have to choose one or the other.
And learn about more local delicacies from their personal experience: Having tried a camel burger, which would you now choose, camel or beef?
Dan & Cierra were lodged along the way in Morocco's beautiful riads, which can accommodate no large groups, just a few guests at a time. A great opportunity to mingle and chat with the hosts and other travellers.
Meanwhile, it wasn't planned as a romantic trip, but in such a romantic country, they were swept up in the spirit. Dan & Cierra were treated to their own Moroccan wedding, with henna designs and Berber attire, and enjoyed memorable meal after memorable meal: breakfasts, lunch and dinner.
Whether on a private tour such as theirs, or on a small group tour that combines nimble flexibility with an affordable price, you can craft your own indelible Moroccan experience with Destination Morocco, and this episode gives you some tremendous ideas to add to your list.Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.
Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
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We've talked about scams in Morocco a few times on the podcast, from one of our early episodes (Scams! How to Understand and Avoid Them) to one of our recent Live Q&A sessions, (Latest Scams: Staying Safe While Traveling in Morocco).
It's a topic we often circle back to, because we want to make sure that all tourists, whether they travel with Destination Morocco or on their own, are staying safe and confident while visiting Morocco.
Some scams though are far more involved and intricate than overpaying for a taxi or a rug. They are the product of years of nurturing, patience and trust, trust which turns out to be a dangerous façade.
These scams prey on vulnerable tourists, people in moments of change and desperation in their lives, who can't, or refuse, to recognize the signs. They meet someone and form an emotional bond, and if that bond is made under false pretenses, it's not just money but so much more that comes under threat.
Today's episode is designed to help you know what to look out for, how to recognize the signs, think about your situation and listen to those close to you, who are giving you warnings from a different perspective.
And if you're listening and know of someone who might fit one of the scenarios we talk about, we want to give you the tools to help them be safe, and extricate them from that relationship.
Siham Essahiri, whom you'll remember from the impactful conversation last year, "Henna and the Strength of Moroccan Women," joins Azdean and Sam on this episode to share some of her first-hand experience in recognizing these dangerous scams. These moving stories will help you recognize just how deep these scams and false pretenses can go.
We recognize that this may sound like a very doom and gloom episode, that might put you off travel to Morocco. But as Siham points out, the vast majority of Moroccans, 99+%, are genuinely friendly, courteous and kind. Love stories and friendships do exist that are absolutely real and sincere. But we have seen enough of the opposite to want to make sure that all visitors to Morocco are simply aware that yes, it can happen, and we don't want it to happen to you.Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.
Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
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Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube, Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time. -
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This is an excerpt of the Live Q&A recording of Friday, May 8, "Finding a Morocco Tour at an Affordable Price."
Watch the full episode on our YouTube channel for even more details and tourist ideas, and particularly for the visuals that accompany our conversation. Maps, photos and more await you there!
Finding Morocco Private-Style Tours at an Affordable Price (YouTube)
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If you enjoy the convenience and security of group tours, but find large coach tours of 50 people a little less appealing, this live session replay is for you.
Or, if you enjoy the freedom and control of travelling solo, yet are looking for the safety and service that comes with a private tour, but at an affordable price, then this live session replay is also for you.
Destination Morocco has put together the best of both worlds to give you some amazing tour options in 2024: convenience, comfort, flexibility and personal attention, all at an affordable price.
Quick Sprinter vans enable you to skip the crowds and make the most of every minute. You'll come home with a greater understanding of Morocco, its culture, its people and its stunning landscape.
Each itinerary includes all accommodation stays, certain meals, local tours, a certified private driver, an award-winning nationally-certified tour leader, airport transfers, 24/7 in-destination support from our local office in Morocco, as well as further features.
We want you to see Morocco in 2024, before the crowds really increase. The World Cup is on the horizon, major airlines are adding new flights from North America and Europe, and Morocco is becoming more popular than ever.
Now is the time to experience the best Morocco has to offer, and we can take you there.Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.
Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
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Support the podcast with our new Supporter program!
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Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube, Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time. -
Hop down after the episode description for an update on our podcast schedule and our new donor link!
cultural awareness, appropriate clothing, respecting religious sites, photography etiquette, local customs, communication barriers, visa issues, avoiding currency exchange scams, shopping for souvenirs (and budget planning!), managing travel documents, and the importance of travel insurance.
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You've heard that Morocco is a modern, plural, largely Westernized country and, well, that is largely true. Dress or behave, within reason, as you would in most of Europe or North America and you won't feel out of place at all.
But as always, there are exceptions, and this episode of our "travel fails" series draws attention to the places where modesty and propriety are expected. Tourists who pay attention to and respect these customs will in turn discover a wealth of hospitality and welcome.
Topics covered in today's conversation include:When you're on a Destination Morocco tour, your knowledgeable guide is not just there to explain history or keep things on schedule, but also to make sure you're prepared and informed to avoid any potential faux-pas and sticky situations.
Even our Small Group Tours are small enough that you get that personal attention and assistance, while sharing the experience with new friends.----
As we head into a busy summer, our programming is adjusting to follow suit.
For starters, you can now join our monthly Live Q&A sessions on the first Friday of every month, at 1 pm Pacific/4 pm Eastern/10 pm Central Europe.
This means the next one is coming up this week, on Friday May 3rd! We'll be sharing more about how you can get a private tour experience without the expense, the best of both worlds, so bring your questions on logistics, practicalities, pricing and more.
Meanwhile, we'll be publishing two regular episodes per month, on the 1st and 15th, in addition to the replay of each Live Q&A.
If you enjoy our podcast and would like to support us, you can now easily do so on our new donation page. Thank you for your generosity! We'll continue to inspire your dreams and plans to see Morocco yourself and enjoy the country has to offer.
----Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.
Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
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Support the podcast with our new Supporter program!
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Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube, Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time. -
In our recent Live Q&A session on secret places in Morocco off the tourist path, one such location is a stunning lake located east of Marrakech, a roughly three hour drive from the city. Perhaps because of this distance, and the fact that it is not on the main tourist routes, it is still largely known only to locals and the occasional informed tourist.
You are about to become one of those in-the-know travellers.
The lake is in fact a large reservoir, held back by a mini-Hoover Dam, creating one of the largest bodies of water in Morocco: Bin el-Ouidane.
Mountains and rolling hills line the shore, in an area still largely undeveloped and untouched. A nature paradise, but with some stunning accommodations available too.
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One of the most impressive places to stay, not just at the lake but in all of Morocco, is the Widiane Luxury Hotel and Spa. Built on a hillside overlooking the lake, with access to the water, the resort is a combination of relaxing getaway and a multitude of adventure activities. When you're ready to get out of the busy cities and discover amazing hiking, watersports, spas and hammams, 5 star food and accommodation, and most of all tremendous service, this is the place.
Azdean and his team stayed at Widiane last summer as the final stop on their two month tour around the country, and he sat down with hotel ambassador Mr. Nabil to talk about this stunning part of the country, and how the resort fits in to the environment.
Widiane places a particular emphasis on local: local cuisine, local ingredients (often reinterpretations of international cuisine), local artisans and local staff. This is not a member of a chain of resorts and hotels, it is Moroccan-owned and supported, and a great way to give back to the local economy.
Check out our conversation today, recorded live on location, to learn more about this beautiful area. You can add a stop here to your tour itinerary, which gives you transport and guided stops along the way.
Visit our website to learn more: www.destinationsmorocco.comDo you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.
Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
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Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube, Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time. -
This is an excerpt of the Live Q&A recording of Wednesday, April 10, "Getting off the tourist path in Morocco."
Watch the full episode on our YouTube channel for even more details and tourist ideas, and particularly for the visuals that accompany our conversation. Maps, photos and more await you there!
Getting Off the Tourist Path in Morocco (YouTube)
List of sights mentioned (doc)
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We spend a lot of time talking about the great sights of Morocco, from Marrakech to Fès, Chefchaouen and Tangier, Ouarzazate and the Merzouga Desert.
If you are making plans for your first trip to Morocco, and indeed if it may be your only trip to Morocco, then we always say to make sure you visit these famous locations, to get a good overview and understanding of the country.
But if you are the type who likes to wander further afield, get away from the crowds, discover something new and different (and maybe be a trailblazer in that regard!), then this live Q&A session will be right up your alley.
We'll be focusing on some of the lesser-known sights of Morocco, the places that people typically get to after they've visited the more famous locales. Or, perhaps they have a few extra days on their big trip and can start exploring right away.
Whether waterfall or canyon, quiet neighborhood or hidden museum, there are lots of options to get off the touristy path while on your tour. And the best part is, it is easy for us to integrate those stops into your itinerary or, with enough notice, modify a full day.
With Destination Morocco, we can easily incorporate any such requests. On a private tour, you can make those decisions, you're the boss!
The best way to follow this episode is by watching it on our YouTube channel, where you can follow along with the maps and images.Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.
Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
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Support the podcast with our new Supporter program!
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Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube, Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time. -
"Travel Fails:" a popular theme in this era of do's, don't's and travel research, comes to the Destination Morocco podcast with today's episode, featuring Azdean, Hiba and Sam. They share their knowledge of travel in Morocco, as well as first-hand experience as travellers themselves in their country, to give you some useful tips of what to do (and what not to do) when you are exploring Morocco yourself.
Focusing on safety, we talk about security measures against pickpocketing and theft, avoiding scams, medical preparations, food and water safety, and dealing with the heat. The importance of understanding and respecting local street food practices is another big one, as we want to find a balance between encouraging trying out new food and flavors, while not taking any undue risks to your stomach.
Meanwhile, being aware of insect-borne diseases also comes up, as although Morocco is far from a tropical country, it can get hot, and add to that some puddles of standing water and you can have the right mixture for breeding mosquitos. It partly depends on the time of year, but if you are planning a summer trip then make sure you take account of both heat and insect precautions.
Certain topics are as common to Morocco as to any place in the world: drinking bottled water, avoiding unfamiliar areas after dark, and the benefits of carrying a basic medical kit. But we also talk about understanding local dress codes, and again finding that balance between being comfortably modern yet suitably modest.
Preparation, awareness, and cultural respect are key to enjoying a safe and pleasant trip to Morocco, and this episode will help get you ready. In fact, we anticipate a series of further episodes along a similar theme, so stay tuned in our podcast feed. And if you haven't already, we have two episodes focused specifically on tourist scams in Morocco, so make sure you catch up on those:
Live Q&A Episode #5 - Understanding Scams in Morocco: How to Travel With Confidence
Ep. 3: Scams! How to Understand and Avoid Them
Destination Morocco is your safest partner in Morocco, helping you navigate through unexpected moments and sticky situations. Visit destinationsmorocco.com to learn about our tour options, including our new series of Small Group Tours!Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.
Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
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Support the podcast with our new Supporter program!
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Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube, Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time. -
Azdean and his local Fes guide extraordinaire, Moulay Hafid Alami, conclude their tour of the old city with a visit to the pottery and ceramic studio, "Mosaique et Poterie de Fes."
Located just to the east of the medina, this is more than a simple shop selling their beautiful craftwork (and there is a lot of it!). When you arrive, you get a guided tour of the facility, starting with handling the raw clay itself, learning how it's shaped, dried and fired, then glazed and decorated.
In our episode today, Azdean is taking this very tour, and you'll hear all the explanations, combined with the sounds of patting down clay, opening the kiln door, chiseling delicate vases and more.
Listen in to learn why Fes is such an important and influential artistic centre, not just to Morocco, but worldwide. We visit the kiln and learn about the firing process, the particular wood used, and a special natural ingredient added to the kiln.
Zalish mosaic tiles, famous around the world, are produced right here in this studio. Zalish is the root of the Portuguese word "Azulejo," the famous blue tiles, meaning "polished stone" in Arabic.
We learn more about funduqs (such as the converted Nejjarine Museum), the unique former accommodation for traders in Fes, and then we end the tour with a quick stop back in the medina, at the al-Karouyin University, the world's oldest.You can view this special Google Map to find out the exact location of all our stops in Parts 1 and 2 of the Fes tour.
And don't forget, all our episodes have transcripts, which can help to make sense of some of the accents and place names. Apple users with the latest update should see the transcript on their phones. Or, you can visit the episode page below to follow along with the .pdf file:
Fes Walking Tour Part 2: Visiting the Famous Fes Pottery Studio
Thank you for joining us during this past month of celebrating the magical city of Fes, Morocco. As Azdean says, if there is one place in the country you should visit, it's right here, and we hope this series has given you inspiration and momentum to book your trip!
Music credits:
Mike Franklyn / Scorpion Dance / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.comDo you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.
Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
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Support the podcast with our new Supporter program!
Destination Morocco +
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Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube, Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time. -
Experience the sounds and ambience of Fes in this live walking tour of the medina, during Azdean's tour in 2023. Accompanied by expert guide Moulay Hafid Alami, we start in Fes el Jdid, the 14th century quarter, learning about the Royal Palace of Fes and its seven golden doors (only created in the 1960's), and the importance of the neighboring Jewish Quarter, or Mellah, the first in Morocco. We pause to take in the quiet tranquility of the Jewish Cemetery, as Hafid tells us about the special bond between Muslims and Jews in Morocco, in Fes in particular.
From there, we head over to the Burj Sud, or "southern fortress," an army installation on top of a hill that looks out over the old city. A quick drive to the top of the hill allows us to wander around the perimeter, where Hafid explains the layout of the city and the differences between its three sections: Fes el Bali, Fes el Jdid and the Ville Nouvelle.
How many streets are in the old medina? How do people find their way around, and what happens when someone gets lost, especially a child? Hafid will tell you first hand from his own experience!
Part One of our tour concludes with the famous Chouara Tannery, where visitors can look down on the many colored vats containing various dyes and natural chemicals. We meet another guide from the tannery and shop, Mr. Mushor, who tells us how the tanning process works. Yes, there is a special ingredient and yes, it is not particularly pleasant but Mushor explains why it makes such a difference to the finished product, and why the process remains in its original form, dating back hundreds of years. Everything is done by hand, and from this tannery leatherworks are shipped out around the world.
You've heard us talk about the magic and charm of Fes in our episodes this past month, now you can close your eyes and be whisked away yourself. And all of our episodes have transcripts, which can help to make sense of some of the accents and place names. Apple users with the latest update should see the transcript on their phones. Or, you can visit the episode page below to follow along with the .pdf file.
Fes Walking Tour Part 1: The Royal Palace, Jewish Quarter and the Tannery
The tour continues in our next episode, as we visit the craftsmen of Fes, making pottery and ceramics, rugs, woodwork and more.
We hope you enjoy this immersive audio experience!
Music credits:
Mike Franklyn / Scorpion Dance / courtesy oDo you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.
Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
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Support the podcast with our new Supporter program!
Destination Morocco +
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Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube, Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time. -
This is an excerpt of the Live Q&A recording of Wednesday, March 13, exploring the vibrant city of Fez.
Watch the full episode on our YouTube channel for even more details and tourist ideas, and particularly for the visuals that accompany our conversation. Maps, photos and more await you there!
Exploring the Magical City of Fez, video replayAzdean, Sam and Ted expand on our recent episode on Fez (which goes over a sample four-day itinerary) and reminisce on their own experiences and memories there, while answering your questions about what to see and do in the city, a bit of history and context, and practical logistics like accommodation and transport.
Fez is a remarkable place to visit, wandering the maze of the Medina, popping into shops, admiring the mosques and madrasas, learning about the tanning process while overlooking the dye vats: and all of this within the old city alone!
Branching further out, there are beautiful lookout stops, pottery and ceramic studios, or the modern contrast of the New City, which instantly brings you forward to the present-day.
Fez has prominent Jewish heritage, and it is easy to visit the historic Mellah, synagogue and Jewish cemetary, located alongside the royal palace, with its brilliant gold doors.
We talk about all this and much more in our live Q&A session, and it will get you more excited than ever to see this fabulous city for yourself.
The best way to follow this episode is by watching it on our YouTube channel, where you can follow along with the maps and images.
But if you're listening in your car, on the bus, cooking, going for a walk etc., this audio excerpt of our live recording is a great place to begin.
You can always send us questions and ideas for episode and live Q&A topics, and join us and interact live on our monthly sessions, the 2nd Wednesday of each month.
---Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.
Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
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Support the podcast with our new Supporter program!
Destination Morocco +
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Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube, Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time. -
We have dabbled in Fès since the start of the Destination Morocco podcast, as it has made an appearance in episodes such as our tour overview of Morocco, our discovery of famous Moroccan food, or in particular from our guests' stories, such as with Chantal and her family, who spent some memorable days in and around the city:
Episode 4: A Guided Tour Around MoroccoEpisode 14: Dig Into Genuine Moroccan Dishes in FèsEpisode 22: Comfortable and Safe Family Travel in MoroccoNow, we enter into our first dedicated series of episodes on this fabulous city, starting with a general overview of the main sights to see, and a sample itinerary for a typical four-day visit.
Crucial to planning your trip to Fès is knowing how much time you should spend there, as it is not like any other destination in Morocco. The medina's maze of labyrinthine streets and alleys alone could keep you occupied for a week or more, simply by checking out different corners, craft studios, shops, tanneries, cafés and restaurants.
And that's without seeing some of the city's other highlights including the great observation points that look out over the valley, the pottery and ceramics studios that are further to the edge, the Fes Jdid (or "New Fez," which expands beyond the old medina and in fact dates from 1276), or of course the New City (la Nouvelle Cité), which offers a modern, dynamic contrast to the ancient streets.
Hiba serves as our guest host for today's episode, with Azdean and Sam as the guests, primarily because they reflect on their own trip to Fès in 2023 as tourists themselves. Although they have visited often, Fez far enough from their home base in Marrakech to be a special trip and experience, even for them. They can thus draw from the itinerary they followed last year where, like many of Destination Morocco's guests, four days was the allotted time.
In four days, one can start with a visit to the iconic Bab Bujlud gate and a guided tour of the Medina. Other highlights include the Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque, Madrasa Bu 'an Aniyah, and the famous, colorful Chouara tannery. That still leaves time for activities, including taking a cooking class, trying a distinct Fes hammam, visiting the Dar Batha Museum, or relaxing in Jnan Sbil Gardens.Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.
Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
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Support the podcast with our new Supporter program!
Destination Morocco +
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Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube, Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time. -
You can also watch this video episode on our YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/FhPkzzzYjns
Ramadan in 2024 starts on the evening of Sunday, March 10th and goes until Tuesday, April 9th, followed by the feast of Eid al-Fitr, or the ‘Feast of Fast-Breaking.' Despite its perhaps solemn reputation, Ramadan is a joyful time for Muslims around the world, Morocco being no exception. As Azdean, Hiba and Sam explain in today's episode, the food is unique and better, families and community frequently come together, and it is a time for celebration and collective spirit, where sacrifice and diligence go hand in hand with helping others and giving back.
The question though is often raised by non-Muslim travellers, "Can I travel to Morocco during Ramadan? Is it worth it, is it a good idea?"
Our episode today is to counter that view and establish that, although routines and schedules are undeniably different during Ramadan, it is still very much possible to travel to and around Morocco during the holy month, and in fact it is quite a special experience.
Hiba, Sam and Azdean discuss the spiritual meaning and practices of Ramadan for Moroccan Muslims, which includes fasting, Zakat (charitable giving), communal traditions such as Iftar (breaking of the fast), and increased recitation of the Quran. Because if you are in Morocco during Ramadan, you'll want to understand what the traditions are, why they're important, and what to look for, to give you a better appreciation for what's happening around you.
Then there is some practical travel advice for tourists, including suggested itineraries, cultural etiquette, and meal planning, which is key. Fundamentally, everything remains open in Morocco during Ramadan, from restaurants to shops to riads. The defining difference is the availability of food.
It is easier to find western-catering restaurants in the big cities, but since travel around Morocco involves a lot of driving through the rural countryside, restaurants are fewer anyway and during Ramadan they may be closed during the day. You can plan ahead with snacks and packed lunches, and your tour guide, driver and riad hosts will all help you stay prepared.
Traveling to Morocco during Ramadan is a unique and immersive cultural experience. As Azdean points out, you only have the chance one month out of the entire year, so if you have the opportunity, make the most of it and enjoy this special time!
Music credits:
Min Wahi El-Lami / Ali Sabah / courtesy of www.epidemicsoundDo you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.
Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
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We conclude our cultural tour of Morocco with a performance of Gnaoua (also spelled Gnawa) music, recorded live on location at a Merzouga desert camp and at a Marrakech restaurant.
In between performances, Azdean sits down with Mohamed, a musician and member of the Gnaoua performers in Qser el Khamliya, a small village just south of Merzouga. Mohamed started playing when he was eight years old, and gives us some background on the roots of Gnawa music, created by slaves and nomads from Sub-Saharan countries. The music was meant to express the suffering of slaves and their longing for freedom, and evolved into a deep religious expression of the Muslim faith.
The contemporary Gnawa festivals in Essaouira and Merzouga stem from the agricultural rhythm of generations of harvests, the point where abundance and peace could be celebrated. Modern-day events typically coincide with Eid al-Adha celebrations that are timed with cycles of the moon, and take place roughly 11 days earlier in each subsequent year.
However, Gnaoua music and live performances are easy to find year-round in Morocco, particularly in the south. Our samples in this episode of both desert camps and urban restaurants are good examples of this. Your guide or riad owner will help you find the best locations to witness Gnaoua in person, don't hesitate to ask!
Khemliya, Merzouga
Ending Gnawa music recorded live at Safran Marrakech restaurant.Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.
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Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube, Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time. -
This episode is the audio replay of part our Destination Morocco live Q&A session, on Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024.
You can find the full video version here on our YouTube channel.
Our live Q&A session this month focused on identifying useful phrases in Moroccan languages that travellers can use while in the country. As a very multilingual country, this means doing so in more than one language, which as we explore today essentially means Darija (Moroccan Arabic), Berber (or Tamazight, the original indigenous language), and French, which is still in very common use and may be at least a bit more familiar to many travellers.
The best way to follow this episode is by watching it on our YouTube channel, where you will see the visuals as we spell each word or phrase in Darija, French and Berber.
However, interspersed with our language lesson, and particularly in the first 20 minutes, is some background and contextual information on languages in Morocco, where you'll hear each one, and in what situation.
We have a fun conversation on language identity, and talk about examples when Azdean, Sam and Hiba had to figure out themselves which language to use, and how their accents were interpreted. It turns out that the dialects alone amongst Berber speakers can be quite distinct!
It's not just travellers but locals as well who navigate this linguistic landscape. But in a place where exposure to multiple languages on a daily basis is a common occurrence, there is far less awkwardness or embarrassment as a result.
So if you're listening in your car, on the bus, cooking, going for a walk etc., check out this audio excerpt of our live recording for the fascinating background info on languages.
Then, you can jump over to the YouTube channel and at the 20 minute mark, you'll see our language lesson begin!Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.
Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
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Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube, Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time. -
Continuing on a bit further south from our last episode in Telouet, we follow Azdean on his summer tour down to Aït Ben Haddou, southern gateway to the High Atlas mountains and their stunning scenery and hiking. Aït Ben Haddou is a small town but is known for its traveller services, restaurants and accommodation, and its welcoming hospitality.
In this episode of Destination Morocco podcast, Azdean sits down with Mr. Mustapha, who works at the restaurant l'Oasis d'Or (Golden Oasis), a popular restaurant located on the main road through town. Mustapha speaks extensively about Berber culture and how they have embraced tourism as a way to present their culture and provide a unique experience to tourists from around the world. He speaks seven languages, which he attributes to interacting with diverse tourists, as well as a reflecting a common Moroccan trait of having a knack for language. Although, as Azdean points out, there are certainly pockets of Morocco where people are not only unilingual, they may speak only Moroccan Arabic (Darija) or the Berber (Amazigh) language, the original indigenous language, without really being able to communicate in the other.
So it's not a given that all Moroccans are polylingual, but we have certainly met quite a few examples on the podcast who are! And it is an impressive thing to see. Mustapha even speaks Russian and Mandarin, thanks to the many Chinese tour groups that have been coming through Aït Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate over the last few years.
Mustapha also discusses the establishment, menu, and services of l'Oasis d'Or, highlighting its welcoming approach to customers and how the staff operate as a big family. Azdean, with his eye for hospitality and service, praises the restaurant's generosity and the quality of its food, voicing optimism for l'Oasis d'Or's plans to open a new hotel in the near future.
On the theme of languages, we welcome you to join us live on YouTube on Wednesday, February 14 at 12 pm EST for our next live Q&A session, where we'll be talking about languages in Morocco, particularly the difference between Berber and Darija. Azdean and Sam will teach us a few useful phrases for travellers. Always handy, especially if you're heading off the beaten path for some real cultural immersion, which is the theme of our recent series of episodes!
l'Oasis d'Or, Aït Ben Haddou
Destination Morocco YouTube
Music credits:
Sight of Wonders / Desert Footsteps / couDo you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.
Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
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We continue our exploration of Berber/Amazigh culture with a visit to Telouet, a small village deep in the High Atlas Mountains, known for its kasbah, trekking and beautiful scenery. Azdean met with local guide and historian Ali Ahdadi to delve into Berber influence in the area and activities for travellers passing through.
Telouet is a bit off the beaten path, hence why it was largely a secret until recently. But in reality it's only a 2.5 hour drive from Marrakech, an hour south to Aït Benhaddou, and another half hour from there down to Ouarzazate. The roads are largely saled and well maintained, and to compensate for the twisty switchbacks there are stunning views of valleys and snow-capped mountains along the way.
Ali guides us through his personal experiences growing up in Telouet, from his family's ancestral craft of blacksmithing to the evolution of Berber communities, highlighting the unique blend of Jewish and Berber cultures steeped in the region's history. Having left to go to university in Marrakech and working around Morocco, he appreciates even more being able to come back home and make a living in this quiet area with fresh air and a peaceful pace of life.
At the same time, Azdean and Ali talk about some of the major events that are starting to put Telouet on the map, including the Atlas Mountain Cycling Race that passes through town, bringing around 200 riders on a traverse from Marrakech to Essaouira. Ali's anecdotes about mountain climbing and the importance of development and visibility of Telouet's history and culture paint a vivid image of a place poised on the cusp of tourism transformation.
Moreover, you'll learn about Telouet's historical importance as a rich salt source, the health benefits of this mineral in both the culinary and medicinal spheres, the profound connection to esteemed painters like Jacques Majorelle, and the significance of the area as a link between Africa and Europe.
It's an episode filled with warmth, a delightful conversation with a local guide well-known to the trekking community. Don't forget to pack your sense of wonder for this captivating instalment of Destination Morocco – your gateway to the traditions and innovations of the Amazigh heartland.
Telouet
Guide Ali Ahdadi
Music credits:
Edward Karl Hanson / Moroccan Marketplace / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.comDo you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.
Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
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In today's episode of Destination Morocco podcast, Azdean, Hiba and Sam expand on the historical canvas and cultural fabric formed by the Amazigh, or Berber, tribes across North Africa.
Our focus is an overview of some of the more prominent tribes and communities, who have had a long and lasting impact on the region. Long before modern political borders, invaders and settlers, and contemporary languages and culture, these Amazigh peoples were laying down cultural roots still seen today.
Our list includes:
the Riffians of Northern Morocco and the Rif Mountains, the Kabyles of Northern Algeria, the Tuareg: a more nomadic people but with predominantly in Mali, the Chleuh of southern Morocco and the High Atlas Mountains (Agadir, Tafraout, Ouarazazate areas), the Zayanist of a different area of southern Morocco (the Anti-Atlas Mountains), the Mzabites of central Algeria, and the Siwa of western Egypt, who have far more in common with their Amazigh cousins than with the Arabs of contemporary Egypt.In Part 1 of our series, we gave an overview of the Amazigh culture and identity, and its history and influence dating back thousands of years. In Part 2, we explore the distinct identities, customs and dialects within the Amazigh world, since they are far from a homogeneous community, which makes sense covering such a large area.
While listening to their story, it is important to erase for a moment those borders, lines, names and flags that are more familiar. Underneath are the Amazigh, and when you visit Morocco, or indeed continue further across North Africa, you will know who these groups are and how they all fit together.
Our series, "The Amazigh Chronicles," will continue after this as additional bonus episodes for those who enjoy diving in deeper to cultural history from a modern day perspective, brought to you by native Moroccans themselves. Keep an eye out for further episodes in our podcast feed.
Our general theme in early 2024 is learning about cultural identities in Morocco and North Africa, and in turn opportunities for you as a traveller to understand and experience this in person. Our upcoming episodes in February, including our Live Q&A, will continue along these lines with lots of practical information and advice to help you really get to know Morocco and its people.Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.
Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
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Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube, Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time. -
This episode is the audio replay of our Destination Morocco live Q&A session, on Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2024.
You can find the video version here on our YouTube channel.
In this month's session, Azdean, Sam and podcast producer Ted, navigate the labyrinth of traveller scams in the bustling streets and markets of Morocco. With a focus that is as practical as it is necessary, they will equip you with the knowledge to sidestep common pitfalls that many an unwary traveller might stumble into.
What are the latest tricks taxi drivers have up their sleeves, and how can you ensure a fair fare? What about those unofficial tour guides who seem so helpful at first glance? Learn the subtle tactics scammers use and get concrete tips on how to say no to unwanted tours and purchases.
You might not thinking that dining out is something prone to scams, but Azdean sheds light on menu price changes and added fees, while Ted reveals his take on unexpected items showing up at your table. Is it complimentary, or will you find it on your bill?
How can a photograph safeguard against overcharging? And in the vast array of merchandise in the souks, how can you distinguish a genuine offer from a scam?
It's not all negative though: fortunately some areas of travel in Morocco have seen substantial improvement. Sam talks about the improvements in taxi services, including the benefits of a scheduled green taxi pick-up and how to utilise the newly introduced kiosk system at the airports. Learn when and how you can call the police, or even threaten to do so, and how that can make all the difference.
We go over the importance of guarding your belongings against theft at the airport, how to effectively navigate interactions with customs officials, and why certain travellers are targeted.
Scams are an international reality, and knowledge is your best ally against them. Get ready to jot down valuable insights that will help you embrace the vibrant Moroccan experience with confidence and peace of mind.
This episode not only raises the questions but offers the answers that could save you time, money, and stress!Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.
Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
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Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube, Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time. -
Who are the Moroccans?
To a large extent, the native population of Morocco are the Amazigh people, whose presence and influence date back thousands of years. Commonly known as “Berbers,” in fact their preferred term, “Amazigh,” is a more positive, inclusive name that means “the free people.”
Speaking the Tamazight language, and pronounced similar to “A-ma-zirgh,” (with the “rgh” a soft guttural sound) Amazigh roots spread far beyond just the borders of Morocco, which as you’ll learn in today’s episode, are quite artificial. Tribes and bloodlines stretch from Egypt to modern day Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, Mauritania and more. The Amazigh tussled with the pharaohs, faced the Carthaginians, mingled with the Romans, occupied Iberia (modern Spain and Portugal), and absorbed Islamic invaders to lay the foundations of their modern culture.
In more recent times, the Amazigh and Morocco (and Africa in general) have gone through the sting of colonialism and adapting to the imposition of European culture and languages. Moroccan independence from France in 1956 marked a return to the path of freedom and self-determination that has marked the vast majority of the country’s history.
Morocco today is a multiethnic, modern and cosmopolitan society. But it is the Amazigh people who have the deepest roots and impact.
Meanwhile, at Destination Morocco, one of the most frequent questions from our tour guests is, “How can I learn more about the native people, and experience the Berber culture?” Many travellers have a desire to go beyond the touristy sights and attractions and have a true culturally immersive experience.
To that end, one of the topics we’ve had on our podcast list has been to give an overview of Berber/Amazigh history, and context to their role in Moroccan society today. This episode is the first part of a new ongoing series, a mix of regular and bonus episodes that are a bit of a glimpse “behind the curtain” into the culture and identity of everyday Moroccans.
Azdean and Sam are joined by friend of the podcast Hiba, live from her home in Marrakech, to talk about Amazigh history. In Part 1, they talk about the early development of Amazigh identity, its reaction to the various invaders and conquerors over the centuries, and how those milestones have influenced culture and identity today.Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.
Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
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Support the podcast with our new Supporter program!
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Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube, Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time. -
You’ve spent a lot of money to get to Morocco, especially to see it thoroughly and comprehensively. And even more importantly, your trip is the culmination of months or years of dreaming, planning, research and preparation.
We all know that unexpected things can happen, from getting sick to breakdowns or even just surprisingly poor customer service. But to sort out these problems, you’ll want to be in the hands of experienced professionals who see you as more than a number or a confirmation code.
Today’s episode is our first of 2024, and Azdean and Sam are joined by podcast producer Ted to reflect on the past year and their own travels around Morocco, and how to get out of sticky situations or adjust to sudden changes. Destination Morocco focuses intentionally on small group and private tours, so that each client gets personal care and attention, and the greatest value for their money.
This means not just choosing the “best” riads, based on reviews or reputation, but Sam and the team actually going to stay, anonymously, at properties around the country in order to make an accurate assessment. The same goes for restaurants, right up to 5 star hotels. Just because a hotel has 5 stars doesn’t necessarily mean it offers outstanding service or quality: often reputation obscures reality. Sam and the team in Morocco are there to verify these things themselves, and ideally avoid problems before they arise.
Often, it’s not so much a case of not wanting to spend money but rather getting the quality and value you expect for your budget. Our episode today shares some first-hand insight from Azdean, Sam and Ted’s personal experiences to help you know what to expect when you travel to Morocco.
Some of the highlights featured in this episode include:Widiane Resort & Spa
Riad Ghita, Fès
Episode 33: Live episode with Said from Sky Sahara Camp, Merzouga
Episode 3: Scams! How to Understand and Avoid Them
Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.
Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
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Support the podcast with our new Supporter program!
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Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube, Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time. - Show more
