Agadir: The Pearl of the Atlantic Coast

• Helloسلام
  [salam]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [na'am]
• Noلا
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  ['udhran]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa haluk?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa'ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al'injlizia?]
• I don't understandلا أفهم
  [la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأود أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [awad an ara alqaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحوم
  [ana la akl allahm]
• Cheers!صحتين!
  [sahatin!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [uriid 'an 'udfi', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [annajdah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [insraf!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [atassil bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [atassil bitalib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dalalt altariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أود أن أشتري...
  [awad an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
  [ana faqat atatala]
• How much is it?كم هو ثمنه؟
  [kam hu thamanuh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khafd alsar?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالواحدة
  [alwahidah]
• Half past (10)العاشر والنصف
  [al'ashir walnusf]
• Morningالصباح
  [alsabah]
• Afternoonبعد الظهر
  [ba'd alduhur]
• Eveningالمساء
  [almasa']
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tasia'a]
• 10عشرة
  ['ashara]

• Where's a/the...?أين...؟
  [ayn...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma hu al'uanan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك إظهار لي (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk 'iizar li ( 'iilaa alkhariata)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى الحافلة التالية؟
  [mata alhafilat altaliat?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tadhkirat ( 'iilaa ...)]

Agadir, situated on the Atlantic coast of Morocco, was founded in 1505 by Portuguese settlers who established a trading post and a fortress called Santa Cruz do Cabo de Aguer. The strategic location of Agadir made it a vital point for trade and maritime activities.

In the early 16th century, the Saadian Dynasty aimed to control the lucrative trade routes. In 1541, the Saadian Sultan Mohammed ash-Sheikh successfully took Agadir from the Portuguese, marking a significant victory. This conquest diminished Portuguese influence and established Agadir as an important Moroccan port.

Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, Agadir flourished as a trade hub, engaging in commerce with European nations, particularly France and Spain. Goods such as sugar, spices, and textiles were commonly traded, contributing to the city's economic prosperity.

On February 29, 1960, Agadir was struck by a catastrophic earthquake that claimed the lives of approximately 15,000 people and destroyed much of the city. The disaster prompted a significant reconstruction effort, leading to the modern urban landscape seen today. The city was rebuilt two kilometers south of its original location.

In the latter half of the 20th century, Agadir transformed into a major tourist destination. Its beautiful beaches, vibrant souks, and rich cultural heritage attract visitors from around the world. The city has become a symbol of resilience and rebirth.

Agadir is known for its cultural diversity, blending Berber, Arab, and French influences. This cultural amalgamation is evident in the city's architecture, cuisine, and festivals. The annual Timitar Festival celebrates Amazigh (Berber) culture and attracts artists and musicians from across the globe.

Agadir is serviced by the Al Massira Airport (AGA), located about 25 kilometers from the city center. Direct flights are available from several European cities. If traveling from other parts of Morocco, you can take a domestic flight, bus, or train to Agadir. Buses operated by CTM and Supratours connect Agadir with major cities like Marrakech and Casablanca. The journey by bus from Marrakech to Agadir typically takes around 3-4 hours.

Agadir has a range of transportation options. Taxis are plentiful and relatively inexpensive; petit taxis are used for short trips within the city, while grand taxis can be hired for longer distances. Car rentals are available for those who prefer to drive themselves. Public buses operated by ALSA provide an affordable way to explore the city and its surroundings. For a more local experience, you can also use shared taxis.

The official currency in Morocco is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller purchases and in more remote areas. ATMs are widely available in Agadir, and most accept international cards. Currency exchange services are also available at banks, exchange bureaus, and some hotels.

Agadir is generally considered safe for tourists, but it's important to take standard precautions. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur, especially in crowded areas and markets. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas. Areas to be cautious of include the Talborjt neighborhood at night. Always keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings. Use reputable transport services and avoid accepting unsolicited help.

In case of emergency, dial 19 for the police, 15 for medical emergencies, and 15 for the fire department. Hospitals and clinics are available in Agadir, with Hassan II Hospital being the main public hospital. Pharmacies are plentiful and can provide over-the-counter medications. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Keep a list of emergency contacts, including your country's embassy or consulate.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect Islamic customs and traditions. Avoid public displays of affection and be mindful of prayer times. Public Transport: Do be respectful and considerate. Avoid eating or drinking on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Agadir like a local, visit the Souk El Had, one of the largest markets in Morocco, where you can buy fresh produce, spices, and traditional goods. Spend time at the Agadir Marina, which is a popular spot for locals. Try traditional Moroccan hammams for a unique spa experience. Engage with the locals; they are often friendly and willing to share insights about their culture. Don’t miss the Agadir Oufella Ruins for a panoramic view of the city.