Fes Jdid: The Pulse of Imperial Morocco

• Helloسلام
  [salaam]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaa'an]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [laa]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aadhraan]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa anta?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al-inglizia?]
• I don't understandلا أفهم
  [laa afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [uridu an ara al-qaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la aakulu al-lahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك
  [fi sahtik]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [awadu an adfaa, min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [al-najdah!]
• Go away!إبتعد!
  [ibtad!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [iatisal bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [iatisal bialtabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dalalt al-tariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [uridu 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 خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khafd al-si'r?]

• What time is it?كم الوقت؟
  [kam al-waqt?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [al-saa'at al-wahidah]
• Half past (10)النصف بعد العاشرة
  [al-nisf ba'd al-aashirah]
• Morningالصباح
  [al-sabah]
• Afternoonالمساء
  [al-masa']
• Eveningالليل
  [al-layl]
• Yesterdayالبارحة
  [al-barahah]
• Todayاليوم
  [al-yawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamaniya]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'ah]
• 10عشرة
  [asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين...
  [ayn...]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa al-eanwan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk an tareeni (ala al-kharitah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي الحافلة التالية؟
  [mata yaati al-hafilah al-taliyah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tathkirah (ila ...)]

Fes Jdid, meaning 'New Fes', was established in the 13th century under the rule of the Marinid dynasty. It was initially built to serve as a royal residence and to accommodate the growing population of Fes as the city expanded. The neighbourhood was strategically located outside the older medina, allowing for better defense and administration.

The architecture of Fes Jdid reflects the Marinid style, characterized by intricate tile work, carved stucco, and grand gateways. Notable structures include the Royal Palace (Dar el-Makhzen), which serves as a symbol of the political power of the Marinids and later dynasties. The neighbourhood's design was influenced by Islamic architectural principles, showcasing the artistry of Moroccan craftsmanship.

During the 13th to 15th centuries, Fes Jdid became a cultural hub, attracting scholars, artists, and merchants from across the Islamic world. The Marinid dynasty invested in education and the arts, leading to the establishment of various madrasas and libraries that enriched the intellectual landscape of Fes.

As the power of the Marinids waned in the 16th century, Fes Jdid experienced a decline. However, it saw a resurgence during the Alaouite dynasty, which recognized the neighbourhood's historical significance. Efforts were made to restore and preserve its architectural heritage, and it became a focal point for the royal family.

In contemporary times, Fes Jdid has become a blend of historical significance and modernity. While preserving its rich heritage, it has also embraced tourism, with initiatives aimed at promoting its cultural sites. The neighbourhood serves as a reminder of Fes's historical importance as a center of learning and culture in Morocco.

Fes Jdid is conveniently located within the city of Fes. You can reach Fes Jdid from the medina (Fes El Bali) by walking or taking a local taxi, which typically costs around 10-15 MAD. If you're coming from the Fes train station, taxis are readily available, and the ride to Fes Jdid takes about 15 minutes. Buses also connect various neighborhoods, including Fes Jdid, making it accessible from different parts of the city.

Fes Jdid is best explored on foot, as many of its attractions are within walking distance. Local taxis are available for longer distances, and they are relatively affordable. Public buses run throughout the city, but schedules can be irregular. For those who prefer cycling, renting a bicycle is an option, although traffic can be congested.

Fes Jdid is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be observed. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas. While the neighborhood does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, petty theft can occur in crowded places. It is advisable to keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 19 for police assistance or 15 for medical emergencies in Morocco. The local hospital is located in Fes Jdid, and various pharmacies can provide over-the-counter medications. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies to ensure you are adequately protected.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in religious sites; avoid revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs; cover your head when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do give up your seat to elderly passengers; don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake; a slight bow of the head shows respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local food and accept hospitality graciously; don't refuse food offerings, as it may offend your hosts.

To experience Fes Jdid like a local, visit the local markets, particularly the Marché de Fes, where you can find fresh produce and traditional crafts. Engage with local artisans and shopkeepers, who often have fascinating stories to share. Don't miss the historic sites, such as the Royal Palace and the Mellah (Jewish Quarter), which offer insights into the rich history of the area. Also, consider trying local street food for an authentic culinary experience.