Tetouan: The White Dove of Morocco

• Helloسلام
  [salam]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك/على الرحب و السعة
  [men fadlik / 'ala ar-rahb wa as-sa'ah]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [a'udhran]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa haluk?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. و أنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa anta?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al-inglizia?]
• I don't understandلا أفهم
  [la 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 أأكل اللحم
  [ana la aakul al-laham]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [uridu an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [an-najdah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [insiraf!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [iatisil bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [iatisil bialtabib!]
• I'm lostأنا ضائع
  [ana dayi']
• 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 سعره؟
  [kam sa'ruh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khafd al-sa'r?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam as-sa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [as-sa'ah al-wahidah]
• Half past (10)النصف بعد (عشرة)
  [an-nisf ba'd ('asharah)]
• Morningالصباح
  [as-sabah]
• Afternoonالظهر
  [adh-dhuhur]
• Eveningالمساء
  [al-masa']
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [al-yawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنين
  [ithnayn]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'ah]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [sittah]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'ah]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamaniah]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'ah]
• 10عشرة
  ['asharah]

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

Tetouan, located in northern Morocco, boasts a rich history that dates back to the 3rd century BC when it was initially settled by the Berbers. The city was later developed by the Phoenicians and Romans, who recognized its strategic importance due to its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea.

In the 8th century, Tetouan was conquered by the Umayyad Caliphate, bringing Islamic culture and architecture to the region. The city flourished as a center of trade and learning, attracting scholars and merchants from across the Islamic world.

Tetouan faced significant destruction in the 15th century when it was targeted by Spanish forces during the Reconquista. However, the city was rebuilt in the late 15th century by refugees from Granada, who brought with them Andalusian architectural styles and cultural influences.

In 1912, Tetouan became the capital of the Spanish Protectorate in northern Morocco. This period saw significant urban development, including the construction of modern infrastructure and public buildings. The Spanish influence is still evident in the city's architecture and culture today.

Following Morocco's independence in 1956, Tetouan integrated into the newly formed nation. The city has since grown into a vibrant cultural and economic hub, known for its unique blend of Andalusian, Berber, and Arab heritage. Tetouan's historic medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracts visitors from around the world.

Tetouan is accessible via Tangier Ibn Battouta Airport (TNG), located about 70 kilometers away. From Tangier, you can take a taxi, bus, or rent a car to reach Tetouan. Alternatively, you can fly into the larger Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport (CMN) and take a domestic flight to Tangier or travel by train or bus to Tetouan.

Tetouan has a variety of transportation options including taxis, buses, and car rentals. Petite taxis are useful for short trips within the city, while grand taxis can be used for longer distances. The local bus network is affordable and connects most parts of the city. Car rentals provide flexibility for exploring surrounding areas, but it's important to be cautious of local driving habits and road conditions.

The official currency in Morocco is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available throughout Tetouan for cash withdrawals. Currency exchange services are also available at banks and exchange offices.

Tetouan is generally safe for tourists, but like any destination, it is important to stay vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas. The Medina and certain neighborhoods may have higher risks for pickpocketing, so keep your belongings secure. Always use registered taxis and avoid displaying valuable items in public.

In case of emergency, dial 19 for police assistance, 15 for medical emergencies, and 15 for fire services. Tetouan has several hospitals and clinics for medical emergencies. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are readily available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing to respect local customs. Religion: Do respect Islamic customs and traditions. Avoid public displays of affection and be mindful of prayer times. Public Transport: Do be respectful and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Avoid eating and drinking on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a slight bow of the head. Avoid overly familiar gestures. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food and drink offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Tetouan like a local, visit the Medina and its bustling markets where you can find traditional Moroccan goods and street food. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share their culture and history. Don't miss the Spanish Quarter with its unique architecture and the Royal Palace. For a relaxing experience, visit the nearby Martil Beach.