The Enchanting Medina of Tangier

• Helloسلام
  [salaam]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaeaan]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [laa]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shokran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [azraan]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa halik?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatakallam al-inglizia?]
• I don't understandلا أفهم
  [laa afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [uriidu an araa al-qaaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana laa aakul 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!انصرف!
  [insarif!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [itassil bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [itassil bialtabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dalalt al-tariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [uriidu an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atfarruj]
• How much is it?كم ثمنه؟
  [kam thamanuh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك تخفيض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuka takhfeed al-saer?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam al-saaah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [al-saaah al-wahidah]
• Half past (10)الساعة العاشرة والنصف
  [al-saaah al-ashirah wan-nisf]
• Morningالصباح
  [al-subah]
• Afternoonبعد الظهر
  [baad al-dhuhur]
• Eveningالمساء
  [al-masaa]
• Yesterdayالبارحة
  [al-barahah]
• Todayاليوم
  [al-yawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2إثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalathah]
• 4أربعة
  [arbahah]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [sittah]
• 7سبعة
  [sabahah]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamaniyah]
• 9تسعة
  [tisah]
• 10عشرة
  [asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين...؟
  [ayna...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa al-eanan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuka an tureeni (ealaa al-kharitah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي الحافلة التالية؟
  [mata yati al-haflah al-taaleah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tazkirah (ealaa ...)]

The Medina of Tangier dates back to the 5th century BC, originally established as a Phoenician trading post known as Tingis. Its strategic location along the Strait of Gibraltar made it a significant hub for trade and cultural exchange, influencing the development of the region through interactions with various civilizations, including the Romans and Byzantines.

In the 7th century, following the Arab conquest, Tangier became an important Islamic city. The Medina expanded as new architectural styles emerged, characterized by intricate mosaics, vibrant souks, and stunning mosques, which reflect the Islamic influence that shaped the culture of the region.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Tangier was designated as an international zone, attracting a mix of European powers and expatriates. The Medina became a melting pot of cultures, as European influences merged with Moroccan traditions, leading to a unique blend of architectural styles and social customs.

In recent decades, efforts have been made to preserve the historical integrity of the Medina amidst modernization. Initiatives to restore traditional buildings and promote local crafts have revitalized the area, fostering a renewed interest in its rich cultural heritage and attracting both tourists and locals to explore its narrow, winding streets.

Today, the Medina of Tangier remains a vibrant center of life and culture. Its bustling markets, artisan shops, and historic landmarks serve as a testament to its layered history. Events such as the annual Tangier International Book Fair reflect the Medina's ongoing role as a cultural hub in Morocco, bridging the past with contemporary artistic expression.

Medina is centrally located in Tangier, making it accessible from various neighborhoods. You can reach Medina from the Tangier Ville train station by walking approximately 20 minutes, or you can take a taxi, which is a common choice and costs around 10-20 MAD. From the port, it’s a short 10-minute walk or a quick taxi ride. Buses and minibuses also operate throughout the city, with stops near the Medina.

Medina is best explored on foot due to its narrow, winding streets. Taxis are available but are often best used for longer distances. Local buses serve the broader Tangier area, and there are bicycle rentals in some parts of the city. However, cycling in the Medina can be challenging due to the pedestrian-heavy environment.

While Medina is generally safe for tourists, it’s wise to remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Certain spots, like the outskirts of the Medina and some poorly lit streets at night, can be riskier. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur, so keep your belongings secure and be cautious with your valuables.

In case of emergency, dial 19 for police, 15 for fire services, and 14 for medical emergencies. The local hospital is located near the Medina, and several pharmacies are available for non-emergency health issues. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in religious sites; avoid revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs. When entering mosques, remove your shoes and dress conservatively. Public Transport: Do be polite; avoid loud conversations. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with 'Salam' (hello) and a handshake; avoid overly familiar gestures. Eating & Drinking: Do enjoy local cuisine; don't refuse food or drink offered by locals, as it may be considered rude.

To experience Medina like a local, visit the vibrant souks for authentic handicrafts and spices. Try to learn a few basic Arabic or Berber phrases; locals appreciate the effort. Join in local events or festivals if you’re visiting during such times. Eat at small, family-run restaurants for the best local cuisine, and don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations from locals.