Marshan: The Timeless Jewel of Tangier

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

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأود أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [awad an ara alqa'imah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la aakul allahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [awad an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [annajdah!]
• Go away!ارحل!
  [irhal!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [iatisil bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [iatisil bitabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت
  [laqad dalalt]
• 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 atatallu']
• How much is it?بكم هذا؟
  [bi kam hadha?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hadha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك تخفيض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk takhfid als'ar?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alssa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alssa'ah alwahidah]
• Half past (10)النصف بعد العاشرة
  [alnusf ba'd al'aashirah]
• Morningالصباح
  [assaabah]
• Afternoonالعصر
  [al'asr]
• Eveningالمساء
  [almasa']
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnaan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'ah]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [sittah]
• 7سبعة
  [saba'ah]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tasia]
• 10عشرة
  [ashara]

• Where's a/the...?أين...
  [ayn...]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma hu al'anaan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk 'an taraani (ala alkharitat)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى الحافلة التالية؟
  [mata alhafilah altaliyah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tazkirah (ila ...)]

Marshan's history dates back to the Roman era when it was part of the ancient settlement of Tingis. As a strategic coastal city, Tangier and its surrounding areas, including Marshan, were important for trade routes connecting Europe and Africa. The remnants of Roman architecture can still be found in the region, showcasing its historical significance.

In the early 20th century, during the Spanish protectorate (1912-1956), Marshan became a favored area for expatriates and diplomats. The architectural styles from this period are evident in the villas and public buildings scattered throughout the neighborhood. This era significantly shaped the cultural landscape of Marshan, blending Moroccan and European influences.

Marshan has long been a cultural melting pot, influenced by various civilizations, including the Berbers, Arabs, and Europeans. This diverse heritage is reflected in the local customs, cuisine, and festivals. The neighborhood is known for its vibrant arts scene, where traditional Moroccan crafts coexist with modern artistic expressions, contributing to Tangier's reputation as a cultural hub.

During Morocco's struggle for independence in the mid-20th century, Marshan served as a meeting point for nationalist leaders and activists. Its strategic position in Tangier made it an ideal location for organizing efforts against colonial rule. The neighborhood played a pivotal role in shaping Morocco's political landscape during this transformative period.

In recent years, Marshan has experienced modernization while efforts have been made to preserve its historical character. The neighborhood is now home to art galleries, boutique hotels, and cultural centers that celebrate its rich history. These developments aim to attract both tourists and locals, ensuring that the unique heritage of Marshan remains alive and appreciated.

Marshan is accessible from various neighborhoods in Tangier. You can take a taxi or a local bus from the city center, which typically takes around 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. If you're coming from the train station, it's best to opt for a taxi, as public transport options may be limited. For those arriving via the airport, taxis are available and the journey to Marshan will take approximately 30 minutes.

Marshan is a relatively small neighborhood, making it easy to explore on foot. Public buses operate throughout Tangier, including Marshan, but schedules may vary. Taxis are a convenient option for longer distances or if you prefer not to walk. Bicycle rentals are also available in some parts of Tangier, offering a unique way to explore the area at your own pace.

Marshan is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night and be mindful of your belongings in crowded places. Areas near the beach can sometimes attract petty crime, so it's advisable to stay vigilant. Always use reputable transport services and avoid displaying valuables openly.

In case of emergency, dial 19 for police assistance or 15 for medical emergencies in Morocco. There are local clinics in Marshan, but for serious issues, it might be necessary to visit larger hospitals in Tangier. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and keep a list of emergency contacts handy.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in religious areas. Avoid revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and be aware of prayer times. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly handshake. Avoid overly personal questions until you know someone better. Eating & Drinking: Do try local street food and accept invitations to share meals. Don't refuse food offerings, as it can be seen as impolite.

To experience Marshan like a local, visit the quieter cafés where locals gather for tea and conversation. Explore the hidden streets and alleyways to discover local artisans and shops. Engage with residents, as they often share insights about the neighborhood's history and culture. Don't miss the stunning views from the cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean, especially at sunset.