Taroudant: The Hidden Gem of Morocco

• Helloسلام
  [salaam]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaan]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [laa]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aadhara]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa haluk?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bkheer. 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, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [urid 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!
  [alnajdah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [ansarif!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [itasil bialshurtah!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [itasil bialtabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dalalt altariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [urid an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atfarij]
• How much is it?بكم هذا؟
  [bkam hatha?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khafd als'ar?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaaah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alsaaah alwahidah]
• Half past (10)الساعة والنصف
  [alsaaah walnusf]
• Morningالصباح
  [alsaabah]
• Afternoonالمساء
  [almasaa]
• Eveningالمساء
  [almasaa]
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنين
  [ithnayn]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arbaa]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [sabaa]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tisaa]
• 10عشرة
  [ashara]

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

Taroudant, often referred to as the 'Grandmother of Marrakech', boasts a rich history that dates back to the 11th century. Originally established as a Berber settlement, it became an important trading post due to its strategic location in the fertile Souss Valley. The city's early prosperity was fueled by the trans-Saharan trade routes, which facilitated the exchange of gold, salt, and other valuable goods.

In the 11th and 12th centuries, Taroudant came under the influence of two significant Berber dynasties, the Almoravids and the Almohads. The Almoravids, known for their military prowess and piety, fortified the city and expanded its influence. The Almohads, who succeeded the Almoravids, further enhanced the city's prominence by establishing it as a center of learning and culture. The presence of these dynasties left a lasting architectural and cultural legacy in Taroudant.

The 16th century marked a golden age for Taroudant under the rule of the Saadian dynasty. Sultan Mohammed ash-Sheikh made Taroudant his capital before moving it to Marrakech. During this period, the city flourished as a political, economic, and cultural hub. The Saadians constructed impressive buildings, including the iconic city walls and the Kasbah, which still stand today as testaments to their architectural prowess and the city's historical significance.

Following the Saadian period, Taroudant experienced a period of turmoil and decline. The arrival of the Alaouite dynasty in the 17th century saw the city lose its status as a capital. Additionally, the constant revolts and internal strife weakened the city's economic stability. Despite these challenges, Taroudant remained an important regional center, known for its resilient local population and vibrant markets.

With the establishment of the French Protectorate in Morocco in 1912, Taroudant underwent significant changes. The French influence led to the modernization of infrastructure and the introduction of new agricultural techniques, benefiting the local economy. After Morocco gained independence in 1956, Taroudant continued to evolve, balancing modern advancements with the preservation of its rich historical and cultural heritage. Today, it stands as a living testament to Morocco's diverse history, attracting visitors with its well-preserved architecture and bustling souks.

Taroudant is located in the Souss Valley in southern Morocco. The nearest international airport is Al Massira Airport in Agadir, approximately 65 kilometers away. From Agadir, you can take a taxi or a bus to Taroudant. The journey typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can rent a car at the airport for a more flexible travel experience.

Taroudant is a compact city, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, local taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive. Public buses operate within the city and connect to nearby towns. Renting a bicycle or a scooter can also be a convenient and enjoyable way to explore the city and its surroundings.

The official currency in Morocco is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Taroudant, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to rural areas.

Taroudant is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 19 for police assistance and 15 for medical emergencies. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Taroudant. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes before entering a mosque. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or the traditional Moroccan greeting of touching cheeks. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Taroudant like a local, visit the souks (markets) where you can buy fresh produce, spices, and traditional Moroccan goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the ancient city walls and exploring the narrow streets of the medina. For a unique experience, take a horse-drawn carriage ride around the city.