The Enchanting Maze of Fes

• Helloسلام
  [salaam]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaeana]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [laa]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryآسف
  [aasif]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa haluk?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa anta?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al'inglizia?]
• I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
  [ana la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [uriidu an araa alqaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحوم
  [ana la aakul allahum]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtik!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [awadu an adfae, min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajdah!]
• Go away!اذهب بعيدا!
  [idhab baeedan!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [itssil bilshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [itssil bitabib!]
• I'm lostأنا ضائع
  [ana daae]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أود أن أشتري...
  [awadu an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atfarij]
• How much is it?كم هو ثمنه؟
  [kam huwa thamanuh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك تخفيض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk takhfeed alsur?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaaah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alsaaah alwahidah]
• Half past (10)العاشرة والنصف
  [alaaashirah walnisf]
• Morningالصباح
  [assabah]
• Afternoonالعصر
  [aleasar]
• Eveningالمساء
  [almasaa]
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thulatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arbaah]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [sittah]
• 7سبعة
  [sabah]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamaniah]
• 9تسعة
  [tisah]
• 10عشرة
  [asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين...؟
  [ayn...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa alaeanaan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk an tureeni (ala alkhareetah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي الحافلة التالية؟
  [mata yaati alhafilat altaliyah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tadhkirah (ila ...)]

Fes, one of Morocco's four imperial cities, was founded in the late 8th century by Idris I, the great-grandson of the Prophet Muhammad. The city quickly attracted a diverse population, including Arabs from Spain and Tunisia, Berbers, and Jews, who contributed to its rich cultural and intellectual heritage.

In the 13th century, under the rule of the Marinid Dynasty, Fes reached its zenith as a political, intellectual, and spiritual center. The Marinids established the University of Al Quaraouiyine in 859, which is considered the oldest continuously operating educational institution in the world. They also commissioned the construction of numerous madrasas, mosques, and palaces, many of which still stand today.

During the Marinid rule, Fes became renowned for its distinctive architecture and artistic achievements. The intricate stucco work, zellij tilework, and carved wood decorations found in the Al-Attarine Madrasa and Bou Inania Madrasa are prime examples of the city's flourishing artistic culture. These structures remain some of the most beautiful and well-preserved examples of Moroccan architecture.

In the 16th century, Fes experienced a period of decline under the Saadi Dynasty, which chose Marrakech as its capital. However, the city was revived in the 17th century by the Alaouite Dynasty, which restored many of its historical buildings and reaffirmed its status as a key cultural and religious center. Sultan Moulay Ismail, one of the most notable Alaouite rulers, commissioned significant restoration and construction projects throughout Fes.

In the early 20th century, Morocco became a French protectorate, and Fes underwent substantial changes. The French established a new district, Ville Nouvelle, which introduced modern urban planning and infrastructure. Despite these changes, the historic medina of Fes el-Bali retained its traditional character and continued to be a focal point for artisans and merchants.

In 1981, the medina of Fes el-Bali was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of its historical, cultural, and architectural significance. The medina is one of the largest car-free urban areas in the world, and its labyrinthine streets, bustling souks, and ancient monuments offer a glimpse into the city's storied past.

Fes is accessible by air, rail, and road. The nearest airport is Fes-Saïss Airport (FEZ), which is located about 15 kilometers south of the city. It offers flights to and from major European cities and Moroccan hubs. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to reach the city center. Fes is also well-connected by train and bus services. ONCF trains run regularly from major cities like Casablanca, Rabat, and Marrakesh. The bus network, including CTM and Supratours, provides another reliable travel option.

Within Fes, transportation options include taxis, buses, and walking. The city is divided into Fes el Bali (the old city) and Fes el Jdid (the new city), with many attractions within walking distance in the old city. Petite taxis (small blue taxis) are a convenient way to get around, but make sure they use the meter. Grand taxis are shared and operate on fixed routes. Public buses are available but can be crowded and less reliable. Walking is often the best way to explore the narrow streets of the medina.

The official currency in Morocco is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). Credit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and shops, but cash is essential for smaller establishments, markets, and taxis. ATMs are widely available in the city, and you can exchange foreign currency at banks and exchange bureaus. It's advisable to carry some cash, especially when exploring the medina or traveling to more remote areas.

Fes is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and be cautious with your belongings in crowded places. The medina can be confusing, so consider hiring a licensed guide. Areas like the train station and some parts of the medina can have higher instances of petty crime, so remain vigilant. Always use registered taxis and agree on the fare beforehand if the meter is not used.

In case of emergency, dial 19 for the police and 15 for medical emergencies. Hospitals and clinics in Fes provide adequate medical care, but having travel insurance that covers medical emergencies is recommended. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues. For lost or stolen items, report to the local police station and obtain a police report for insurance claims.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in the medina and religious sites. Avoid revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours. Public Transport: Do be respectful and patient. Avoid overcrowded buses if possible. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A slight nod 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 Fes like a local, visit the local souks and markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Moroccan goods. Engage with locals; they are often friendly and willing to share stories about their city. Don't miss the historic tanneries, where you can observe traditional leather-making processes. For a unique experience, take a stroll through the Andalusian Gardens or explore the Al-Karaouine University, one of the oldest in the world. Enjoy a meal at a traditional riad to savor authentic Moroccan cuisine.