By Amine Mechaal

Meknes - The Dar Jamai is one of the most popular historical sites in the city of Meknés. Built in the nineteenth century by Mohammed Ben Al-arbi L’jamaai, the first minister of Hassan I (1873-1894), this highly appreciated historical monument is located in the old medina of Méknés.

Sekakine was originally meant to be the palace of Sidi Mohammed L’jamaai. However, the latter faced a serious disease which urged him to move to Fez for medical treatment, where he gave his orders to build another mansion under the same name. As a result, Dar L’jamaai remained unoccupied for a while until Lhaj Lmaati L’jamaai, brother of Mohammed Ben Al-Arbi L’jamaai, used it after his brother’s death.

In 1912, the building was sold by its last owner to the French colonials, who divided it into two buildings. The first building became a military hospital under the name “Louis Hospital,” and the second part became a military court for a short period before it was turned into an art facility.

In 1916, the building was used as an administrative facility and a museum of art. In 1920, Dar L’jamaai was declared an official museum, the “Civil Arts Museum” and a school for embroidery.

After independence in 1956, the school was secluded from the building, which has become what we know today as “Dar Jamai Museum.”

In addition to the charming gardens, the incredible fountains, and the stunning designs, the museum also contains many historical items that belong to Sultan Moulay Ismail, who ruled Morocco from 1792 to 1822, including a cooking kit, traditional sauna, clothes, beds, furniture, jewels, a mosque, and musical instruments.

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Rabat - A Moroccan researcher, Moha Ennaji, has just published a new book that discusses the historical and social significance of the Amazigh culture in Andalucia, as well as methods of strengthening cultural exchange and fostering social peace.

The book, titled “Amazighity and Andalusia: Right of Belonging and Hospitality,” focuses on the ways in which North Africa is an irreplaceable bridge between African and European countries as well as with historical significance of the Amazigh culture in the area.

The novel aims to deepen the ongoing debate on cultural diversity, especially in Maghreb and Andalucia. It discusses ways in which harmony can be developed between not only Arab and European countries, but also Jewish, Christian, and Spanish, areas by using tolerance and constructive communication.

Ennaji is the president of the South North Centre for Intercultural Dialogue and Research on Migrations and is also the author of a number of other books on migration, government, and culture in Africa and Europe. He has also been published in newspapers and magazines.

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Rabat - It is not every day that one finds themselves sitting between the two humps of a camel, looking out at the afternoon sun setting over miles of powdery-soft sand dunes, following a beaten path toward a campsite in the middle of the Sahara Desert.  

But for adventurous travelers visiting Morocco, a camel trek to the Zagora or Merzouga desert regions of the Sahara desert brings that very scene, plus much more.

The decision between Zagora and Merzouga is a choice based on many factors, two of these being the amount of travel time and money available. While the trip to Zagora is typically two days and one night in the Berber tents of the Sahara Desert, the slightly more expensive trip to Merzouga is three days and two nights, with one of these spent in the desert and the other in a hotel room. Regardless of your decision, the trip is sure to be unforgettable.

Popular for its “Timbuktu 52” sign indicating the amount of days it would take to get to the town in Mali on foot or camel, Zagora is located about five hours southeast from Marrakech. The best way to go about traveling to Zagora is to book an excursion online with a partner hostel.

For about 600 dirhams or €55/$61, a Zagora desert excursion may include transportation to and from the desert, two camel treks, dinner at the campsite, a bed in a Berber tent, and breakfast. Prices and accommodation will differ from hostel to hostel, so be sure to research extensively before you book your excursion.

Once you have your excursion booked, backpack stuffed with comfortable and cool clothes—temperatures reach 43? C/109? F on a typical afternoon in the desert—the real fun starts.

The 6:30 am wake-up call is welcomed by the aroma of fresh bread, tea, and coffee brewing in the kitchen of the hostel, where fellow camel-trekkers gather to meet each other before embarking on the long bus ride that awaits them. The bus ride to Zagora can be anywhere from 5 to 11 hours depending on how many stops are made. Excursions typically stop every few hours at a picturesque mountain overview, cafe, or restaurant for a bathroom break, so prepare to be sitting on a moving vehicle for the majority of the first day of traveling.

Although the bus ride is long, it is a necessary component of the desert experience. Hours in a bus full of friends or strangers moving through winding mountain roads away from the busy city of Marrakech and all of its charming fervor, lulled by the sound of rocks and pebbles being swept away under the rubber tires and nothing else is exactly what a traveler needs to clear their mind in preparation for the stunning experience that awaits them in the middle of the vast Sahara. Plus, the scenic route from Marrakech to Zagora is mesmerizing.

A few hours into the bus ride toward Zagora, the excursion groups will make a stop in the ancient Berber city of Ouarzazate, home to Morocco’s famous film set, the Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou. Films such as Lawrence of Arabia, Kingdom of Heaven, The Mummy, The Last Temptation of Christ, and Gladiator were filmed at this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Most recently, the popular TV show Game of Thrones was filmed on the ksar. With the help of a tour guide, visitors will be led up the walled ksar, where they will come across booths of artists painting with tea and indigo and shops filled with unique Berber jewelry and clothing. Once the tour reaches the top of the ksar, the view is unlike any other.

From here, the group will be led to a restaurant overlooking the ksar. Lunch options range from couscous to chicken brochettes, all with a side of salad or soup and fruit for dessert.

Be aware of what exactly is included in your package; many low-cost excursions fail to mention that for stops like these, you must pay an additional entrance or tour guide fee of about 20 dirhams (about $2/ €1.8) and purchase your own lunch, even if dinner is included later in the day, so bringing some extra cash if needed would be beneficial.

The groups will return to their busses after lunch, and the journey to the Sahara will continue for a few more hours, with stops here and there for bathroom and snack breaks.

The next full stop will be at the proclaimed "Gate to the Sahara," where locals sell and wrap headscarves recommended for those trekking to the desert via camel to combat the extreme heat for 50MAD/5USD/4.6EUR. The headscarves also shield the eyes from sand once the sun goes down and the evening gets cool and windy.

A short bus ride will drop travelers off at the camel site, where they will climb on to the sitting camels and prepare for their journey into the dunes, away from the noise and bright lights of the city.

Depending on your balance skills, your ride on the camel may be a quite comical one. These gangly giants have a tendency to wobble and run in quick bursts, which can make for plenty of laughs among the group. Camels are gentle and patient, however, so you may also be nuzzled softly by your new travel companion. Domesticated, camels live for up to 50 years, so it is more than likely that your camel has been working with the agency for many years and has a known name, age, and personality.

The trek into the Sahara will be bumpy, but relaxing. After sitting in a hot bus for over six hours, the image of the vast, unknown land in front of you will cleanse your mind of the worries and stress of your ordinary life. Be sure to snap some pictures, but also take a few moments to distance yourself from technology and take some mental photographs instead—these will be the memories that will last you a lifetime.

Arrival at the Berber camp will occur right before sundown, giving travelers just enough time to settle into their tents and come together in the center of the campsite for much needed relaxation, socializing, and stretching, before the sun tucks away behind the horizon and millions of stars emerge.

In this communal area, the energy among the campers dies down into a haze of relaxation and reflection, although it is hard to keep from dancing once the Berber locals initiate their first drum circle. The beating of the drum awakens the sleeping campers, and like ants they trickle in from their tents to join the party.

After the drum circle and a hearty dinner of tajine, harira, and fruit, the campers are free to roam the dunes and stargaze under the active starry night sky, known as "Berber Television" by the jokester locals that accompany travelers during their stay. This nickname is fitting; the night sky can provide hours of entertainment with its flickering stars, constellations, and the inevitable conversations that come from feeling so small under nature’s massive blanket.

Some travelers opt to sleep outside of their tents, wrapped in wool blankets for protection against the cold air and sand which can be harsh on the eyes during windy nights. The tents are warm and cozy for those less on board with sleeping outside.

In the morning, the sun rises at around 6:30 am in soft hues of yellow and orange as the campers once again trickle out of their tents to clear skies and a light Moroccan breakfast. The campsite provides a bathroom and sinks for those who want to refresh their sleepy faces and brush their teeth before embarking on the camel trek back to the bus. The rested camels yawn and stretch like their human companions, and soon the morning trek is underway.

Remember to tip the generous Berber locals that led your camel through the desert and accompanied the group throughout their stay—many of them go days without sleeping to make sure that the desert stays are safe and comfortable for visitors. The trip would not be complete without their humble hospitality and extensive knowledge about the history of the original nomads that traveled through the Sahara on camels centuries ago. Strike up conversation with them—you just might learn something new.

The bus ride back to Marrakech is much less interrupted than the ride to the desert, with only a few stops for lunch and an optional trip to other Ourzazate film studios (at an extra cost). The bumpy ride is helpful in reflecting on the past few days and for preparing oneself for a swift return into normal life, which will undoubtedly never be the same after experiencing the magic of the Sahara.

Photos credit: Natalia Correa

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Rabat - American director Francis Ford Coppola will be the president of the jury of the 15^th edition of the Marrakesh Film Festival.

Based on a communiqué from the foundation of the Marrakesh Film Festival, Francis Ford Coppola will chair the jury of the 15^th edition of the Marrakesh film festival which will last from December 4 to December 12.

The American film director had declared that Morocco was one of his favorite places and that he was glad and honored to attend the Film Festival. He shared the fact that his grandmother was born in Tunisia and remembers the stories she would tell him about where she came from. This, in addition to the fact that Morocco was the first country to acknowledge the independence of American colonies makes him feel welcomed in this country.

Francis Ford Coppola is a Hollywood director, producer and screenwriter. He is part of the new Hollywood wave that revolutionized the American moviemaking in the end of the 60s. He won three academy awards plus two Palme d’Or. Some of his works had a planetary success among them The Godfather, The Conversation, The Great Gatsby, and Apocalypse Now.

Francis Ford founded his own studio “American Zoetrope” in 1969. His studio contributed to the successful careers of producers such as George Lucas, Carroll Ballard, and John Milius, as well as actors like Al Pacino, Robert DeNiro, James Caan, Harrison Ford, Diane Keaton, and Matt Dillon (Diane Lane). Zeotrope films have also been nominated 70 times for the Oscars.

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New York- I landed in Casablanca early in the morning exhausted from my trip from New York. My plans to sleep during the flight in order to arrive fresh and energized were ruined by an airplane full of crying babies. I was not in the best of moods when I deplaned and all I wanted was a quiet room and a bed. However, since my hotel was in Rabat, this was still a far away reality.

But something strange happened to me as soon as I walked into the airport: I was instantly infused with energy. I was greeted with smiles from everyone I encountered and escorted to a room where I was offered delicious Moroccan tea. I soon forgot my weariness and got lost in conversation with airport employees about how despite this being my first trip to Morocco, I was a sort of adoptive Moroccan due to the large number of Moroccan friends I have in New York. They were happily surprised by my familiarity with their culture, including the food and music. I felt like a child, anxious to finish the paperwork, suitcase retrieval and all the other processes and finally get out of the airport and into the country.

I had wanted to go to Morocco for quite some time and this trip happened unexpectedly. Every detail of the journey went perfectly. And this was because of the help and hospitality Moroccans generously offered me. My driver, Hassan, who took me to Rabat and accompanied me throughout my 10-day stay, was lovely. He was friendly and incredibly helpful. We laughed often at our communication methods.

I spoke some words of Egyptian Arabic to Hassan, which invariably made him giggle, some Spanish, some English, some Italian. He replied in Moroccan Arabic and French. We miraculously managed and actually had good conversations during our time together; he affectionately teased me, calling me “Masrya” (Egyptian). Hassan also took beautiful photographs of me at the Kasbah of the Oudayas, my favorite part of Rabat, a citadel with beautiful gardens, blue and white houses and a café overlooking the ocean.

Cheb Khaled’s “C’est la vie” CD had just been released and I was obsessed with it. Hassan quickly figured this out and during every outing we had, he played it. He gave it to me as a parting gift the day I left Morocco.

Rabat is beautiful, clean, and highly organized. It has a cosmopolitan air of sophistication that I instantly loved. I would be very happy if I lived there. I did not expect this. I had just spent months in Egypt and although I fell in love with the country, its amazing energy and the light in its people’s eyes and hearts, the level of chaos make existing there challenging and tiring. I was expecting Morocco would be similar. Instead, being in Morocco was easy, pleasant and enjoyable. People constantly went out of their way to help me.

Having many friends from Rabat living in New York and visiting their family homes meant that their mothers sent them large containers of food, shoes, and several other gifts back with me. I had no space or extra luggage to carry all of this. Not to worry, a journalist friend I made during my stay, who, despite his prominent position and how busy he is, was available for all kinds of inquiries, including where to buy the best pastries, giving directions to my driver, etc., made a suitcase magically appear in my hotel within half-hour of me mentioning I needed one.

The families of my friends treated me as if they had known me all their lives. They invited me into their homes for meals, drove me around the city, took me out to dinners, cabarets and night clubs to listen to music --I love Arabic music so this was a must for me--, and generally treated me as a daughter. A close friend’s mother even invited me to travel with her to Tangier. I felt like I was with family during my stay.

It is not an exaggeration to state I felt like a queen every moment I was in Morocco. In the beginning, this level of kindness and attention felt overwhelming, but after two days or so, my fear was that I felt too happy and was getting used to this treatment, and so, what would I do when I got back to my normal life in New York?

I was also surprised by how pleasant walking around on my own was. I was expecting to be harassed by men, accosted by vendors, and to feel generally uncomfortable. But none of this happened. I was shocked by how polite and respectful the men were. In my own country, Mexico, they behave worse, not to mention in most Mediterranean countries and in Egypt, where walking alone as a woman is definitely not a fun adventure.

My experience was similar in Fez and Tangier. People were friendly, gave me small gifts when I bought something, offered me tea when they displayed their leather goods, invited me to their houses for food, and endless other gestures of hospitality. I walked around in peace. I never felt nervous or unsafe, but the opposite. I felt that if I got lost I could ask a stranger to guide me back and I would be fine. This of course happened several times since I am terrible with directions even in my hometown. When I asked strangers for directions, they graciously explained to me how to go where I needed to. Sometimes, they even walked me to my destination.

At the bakeries and markets people treated me regularly, not as a ‘tourist’. I rarely had to haggle, something that is quite normal in many countries. I never felt I was being taken advantage of because I was a foreigner. In fact, I didn’t felt like a foreigner. Moroccans made me feel their country was my own.

Morocco is an extremely beautiful country aesthetically and for the qualities of its people, who are full of energy, passion and humor. I strongly recommend anyone who has the ability to visit to do so. It will be one of the most wonderful experiences of your life.

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Taroudant - In Pictures: Morocco 100 Years Ago

Like any country in the world, Morocco has rapidly developed and has renovated its cities which, until the beginning of the 20th century were mostly rural with limited buildings and facilities.

These photos will take the reader in a nostalgic trip back to the beginning of the last century when some big Moroccan cities were partially agricultural fields.

The photos also features some of the big buildings from the colonial period that are still in good conditions and are being used for the same services they were offered at the time.

The following photos offer a majestic feel of what Moroccan cities looked like several years ago, long before any urban or architectural development. Some places are hardly recognizable today.

[caption id="attachment_162071" align="aligncenter" width="636"] Casablanca Bourgonne Neighborhood[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_162072" align="aligncenter" width="730"] Casablanca Mers Sultan 1912[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_162073" align="aligncenter" width="740"] Casablanca- Ain diab[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_162074" align="aligncenter" width="740"] El-jadida - Poste Office[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_162075" align="aligncenter" width="740"] Fez- Bab Boujloud, the entrance to Fes El Bali[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_162076" align="aligncenter" width="740"] Kenitra- Train Station[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_162077" align="aligncenter" width="740"] Marrakech- Jamaa Elfna Square[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_162078" align="aligncenter" width="740"] Marrakech- Post Office[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_162079" align="aligncenter" width="740"] Meknes - Train Station[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_162080" align="aligncenter" width="740"] Meknes- Mohamed V Street[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_162081" align="aligncenter" width="740"] Mohamédia - Le Parc Restorant[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_162082" align="aligncenter" width="740"] Oujda - Train Station[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_162083" align="aligncenter" width="740"] Oujda- Clémenceau Square[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_162084" align="aligncenter" width="740"] Rabat beach[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_162085" align="aligncenter" width="740"] Rabat- formerly Appeal Court, but actually serves as the headquarter of the Parliament[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_162086" align="aligncenter" width="740"] Rabat Post office 1920[/caption]

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Raba- Paris Hilton is allegedly moving forward with suing Egyptian actor Ramez Galal, who hosts a prank show called “Ramez in Control”, for emotional distress.

Paris Hilton was reportedly furious over the stunt. Ramez Galal and his crew fooled her into thinking that the plane she was on was going to crash.

Tricked into thinking she was taking part of an Egyptian TV show, 34-year old American socialite agreed to take an aerial tour of Dubai in order to see the city from above.

However, after a smooth takeoff, the TV show crew pretended the plane was crashing.  They got the pilot to pretend to shut down the engines in the plane, and then nose-drive toward the ground.

Hilton was terrified, clinging to her seat throughout the ordeal, and screaming in terror, "Where is the pilot? Why can't we land?"

TMZ quoted sources close to Paris Hilton as saying that she spoke with her lawyers before suing the people responsible for putting her on the plane.

TMZ says she has a "solid case for emotional distress."

TMZ's sources added that Hilton is "totally freaked out" to fly anywhere now - something her career depends on.

Although multiple reports suggested that Hilton was "in" on the prank, TMZ says the daughter of Hilton hotel heir Rick Hilton insists she was not.

Edited by Timothy Filla

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Rabat - A German woman and an Ivorian man converted to Islam on Monday and Wednesday, respectively.

The Shahada is the Arabic word for this Muslim profession of faith and serves as the Islamic faith’s first pillar. This entails one’s affirmation that there is no god but Allah, and that Muhammad is the messenger of Allah. The two converts proclaimed the latter in the presence of thousands of worshippers in Koutoubia Mosque, the largest mosque in Marrakech.

After having had Koutoubi Mosque Imam Wadih Chakir witness their Shahada after Tarawih prayers – the extra prayers performed during Ramadan after the last prayer of the day - thousands of exultant Muslims proclaimed, Allahu Akbar (God is a great) to commemorate the significant stepping stone in the pair’s lives.

Although it is not obligatory for one to alter one’s name upon conversion to Islam, both the German woman and the Ivorian man chose to adopt a Muslim name.

The woman’s Muslim name would thus be Jawhara, denoting an essence or a precious stone such as a ruby. As for the Ivorian man, he chose the name Mohamed Amine.

Every year during the holy month of Ramadan, Koutoubia Mosque, situated next to the prominent Jemaa el-Fnaa square in Marrakech, hosts a number of Muslim conversions for many foreigners from around the globe.

Edited by Marwa Al Omami

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Rabat - Gad El Maleh is being accused of plagiarism. The Franco-Moroccan comedian released his newest song entitled "Dance de la Joie Lalala" on June 29th and has since gone viral, amassing over 400K views in three days.

However, El Maleh has been accused of ripping off the melody and the rhythm of the song from Said Mouskir's hit song "Mama."

A number of Moroccans and news outlets are pointing to similarities between Gad El Maleh's song and "Mama", released in 2005 by Moroccan singer and actor Said Mouskir.

Contacted by French-speaking newspaper Aujourd'hui Le Maroc, Moroccan singer and actor Said Mouskir said that he is disappointed, adding that he will resort to justice.

"I find it outrageous that an artist the caliber of Gad El Maleh plagiarizes my work and effort without even bothering to consult me or mention my name," Mouskir told ALM. "We will endeavor to make our voices heard; we will not stand idly by."

Said Mouskir: "Mamma Mamma"

Gad Elmaleh: "Danse de la joie (Lalala)"

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Istanbul - Ramadan, the most beloved time of the year for Muslims, is a unique experience. From Cairo to Istanbul, Bangalore to New York, followers of the beautiful religion of Islam mark this auspicious time of the year with great joy and excitement.

Although similar in essence, Muslims across the world have different traditions and practices in celebrating the spirit of Ramadan. Now let’s take a brief look at these various practices in three major Muslim countries.

Egypt, since medieval times, has had a tradition of vibrant Ramadans. Even today, as it struggles with political turmoil and social division, Muslim worshippers continue to observe Ramadan in a carnival-like atmosphere. Egyptians pay great attention to their Iftar dinners, with authentic and unique tastes such as Basbousah, Konafah, Katayef, Eldin and Qamar. Zabadi, Medamis and delicious and colorful jars of Torshi Baladi are also among the favorites.

As the sun sets, a great silence falls over the old city of Cairo until the roar of four cannons from the Saladin Citadel suddenly breaks it, announcing Iftar. Thousands of mosques call the worshippers to prayer. But the most distinctive quality of Ramadans in Egypt must be the centuries-old tradition of decorating the streets with colorful lanterns. Every building, every street, mosque, lane and alley are lit up with these bright and cheerful decorations dotting the night sky.

India, home to world’s second largest concentration of Muslims, becomes a festival scene when Ramadan arrives. This can be felt probably the strongest at the famous Mohammed Ali Road in Mumbai. Known as the 'kilometer-long buffet' after sunset, it is possible to find almost any taste in here from savory to sweet, spicy to plain. Bright lights, ornaments, decorations, the constant buzz, and the happy crowd creates such a charming climate that Muslims or Non-Muslims come here to be a part of this happy experience.

During Ramadan, the streets are kept empty, buildings are well cared for, and streets cleared to make way for prayers. Storeowners offer free food and ‘sherbet’ to passers-by. Iftar food mainly comprises of fried bhajiyas, chicken fry, mutton Seekh Kebabs, Kebab Pav or other flavored drinks.  In Hyderabad, this air of celebration continues at full speed. Not only Muslims, but the authorities are extremely cooperative and respectful as well. The roads heading towards the Mecca are closed to traffic, as the Municipality washes the roads to make sure that they are clean enough for prayers. But none of these can match the excitement of the last Friday of Ramadan. Mosques are filled beyond their capacity as the streets reflect the fanfare with all the colors and traditions unique to India.

Ramadan has a very dear place in the hearts of the Turks. The excitement starts weeks before the actual Ramadan. Families rush to do their Ramadan shopping and stock up on groceries for large feasts where they will dine together with beloved ones. But it is not only the joy of fasting during the day, or the excitement of waiting for Iftar in a charming feast table; it is also the festivities afterwards. Once the dinner is finished, followed by tea and a light dessert, Istanbulers usually go to Eyup to feel the Ramadan spirit at full swing. One of the main districts of Istanbul, Eyup offers a carnival atmosphere during the month with concerts, Jannisary band performances, plays, puppet shows, food stands and jugglers and other performers. Add to this the vibrant look of the city with its illuminated mosques and colorful streets, and Ramadan in Istanbul is something to be experienced by everyone…

Photo Credit: Ozan Kose/AFP/Getty Images

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Rabat - The National Zoological Garden (JZN) obtained Tripadvisor’s Certificate of Excellence for the second consecutive year.

Tripadvisor's Certificate of Excellence has been awarded for the second consecutive year to the national zoological garden in Rabat for its quality of service.

The zoo obtained this award because of the positive feedback of its visitors on the Tripadvisor website. The zoo had received an overall rating of 4/5 based on the appreciation of the local and foreign visitors.

This rating consequently ranks the zoo in the top 5 most visited attractions in Rabat and places it number one for open air activities.

This award, according to a communiqué released by the JZN, represents the recognition of the visitors to the quality of the zoo services.

Tripadvisor is the most popular online platform in the world and is present in 45 countries. The website is used for referencing, comparing, and rating the services of touristic establishments like hotels.

With more than 340 million visits a month and more than 225 million opinions on more than 4.6 million touristic establishments, the website is considered very reliable because it gives access to the real testimonies of visitors of these touristic attractions.

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Rabat- Morocco’s controversial cleric, Sheikh Abdellah Annahari, has stirred up controversy on social media by claiming that Al Khawasser, a comedy TV series that aired on 2M TV is “offensive” to Arabic and “an act of aggression” against the language, although he has never seen an episode of the show.

Earlier this week, Annahari posted a video on YouTube in which he accused 2M TV channel of declaring war against Arabic, Morocco’s official language, by airing the Satirical series Al Khawasser.

Al Khawasser is a comedy parody of the classical Arabic-speaking Syrian series Al Kawasser, in which both classical Arabic and Moroccan dialect (Darija) are spoken.
Annahari apparently was not amused and accused the series of being an attack on classical Arabic.

“While Moroccans are still debating about integrating darija into early childhood education to replace Arabic, 2M TV produces such a series, transparently showing favoritism to darija over Arabic,” Annahari said.

The Oujda-based cleric called upon the Minister of Communication to address the channel’s attempt to “bombard” the foundations of the nation and its identity.

Annahari is seen in the video angrily saying that he has never seen a TV show more offensive to Arabic than Al Khawasser. Yet he admitted in the same footage that he had not seen a single episode of the show.

The controversial cleric has received criticism from social media activists who have mocked his attempt to make the series responsible for the retreat of Arabic.

Edited by Elisabeth Myers

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New York - Moroccan American woman Iman Oubou, ranked second runner up in the Miss United States pageant, which was held on Sunday in Washington D.C

The 26 year-old Moroccan-born, represented the state of the New York in the competition. Last March, Iman, who is originally from southern Morocco, was crowned Miss New York.

“I'm so proud to have represented the state of New York in such beauty, grace and intellect in the Miss United States pageant this week,” Iman wrote on her Facebook account on Monday.

Iman went on to add she was "honored" to participate in the pageant and represent her country of origin.

“Most importantly I'm absolutely honored to have represented my country Morocco in one of the most prestigious pageants in the US and placed as 2nd runner up while competing with 54 of the most beautiful women in the United States! I stand proud and hope to always be an inspiration to young Moroccan women.”

Iman said how proud she feel to have risen to the top three, adding that this achievement was in part in part to her Moroccan background.

“I am extremely proud to have risen to the top 3 in such a competitive pageant. Miss United States delegates were all beautiful but I'm glad my Moroccan background, my accomplishments and my aspirations made me stand out and placed me among the top 3 in the nation. I might not be wearing the national crown now but I know I won in a lot of people's hearts,” Iman told Morocco World News on Monday.

“The life skills gained from the preparation process have prepared me for my next goal and to rise up to continue to rise to the top and an entrepreneur and a leader,” she added.

Before being crowned Miss New York, Iman had already been crowned Miss Colorado in March 2002, the state where her family lives.

Iman moved with her family to the United States in 2006.

© Morocco World News. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, rewritten or redistributed without permission

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New York - Moroccan American, Iman Oubou ranked second runner up in the Miss United States beauty pageant, which was held on Sunday in Washington D.C.

Iman, who was born and raised in Morocco until the age of 17, represented the state of New York in the competition.

The 26-year-old Moroccan American beauty queen, who moved to New York just over a year ago, told Morocco World News how proud she feels for her achievement and for representing Moroccan women.

“I’m glad my Moroccan background, my accomplishments and my aspirations made me stand out and placed me among the top 3 in the nation,” Iman told Morocco World News.

“Most importantly I’m absolutely honored to have represented my country Morocco in one of the most prestigious pageants in the US and placed as 2nd runner up while competing with 54 of the most beautiful women in the United States! I stand proud and hope to always be an inspiration to young Moroccan women,” she added.

[caption id="attachment_162658" align="aligncenter" width="586"] Iman Oubou at Miss United Staes in Washington D.C.[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_162660" align="aligncenter" width="584"] Morocco’s Iman Oubou at Miss United States in Washington D.C.[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_162659" align="aligncenter" width="933"] Moroccan Iman Oubou Ranks 2nd Runner up in Miss United States[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_162661" align="aligncenter" width="639"] Morocco’s Iman Oubou at Miss United States beauty pageant[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_162663" align="aligncenter" width="483"] Morocco’s Iman Oubou wearing swimsuit at Miss United States beauty pageant[/caption]

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Rabat - Falling short of the number one spot by only 25 feet, Ouzoud Falls is the second tallest waterfall in Africa. At 330 feet, the falls stand atop of the Azilal region of Morocco, overlooking the Tanaghmeilt village.

Although the waterfall is in the top 20 list of things to do in all of Morocco, the area remains relatively untouched by tourism and provides a peaceful experience for those looking to get away from the busy city of Marrakech, go swimming in refreshingly cold water, and even play with some curious monkeys.

Before going into the details of what awaits visitors at the falls, let’s talk money.

A trip to Ouzoud Falls can be arranged through a hostel or travel agency. The excursion alone may cost anywhere from 25EUR/28USD/273MAD to over 89EUR/100USD/969MAD depending on where the group is traveling from, the size of the travel group, and specifications over a private tour guide.

A 25 euro excursion from Marrakech will most likely include only transportation to and from the falls. The tour guide will charge the group 3EUR/3.60USD/35MAD for the hike to the falls, swimming in the natural pools, and feeding the monkeys. Once travelers arrive at the actual waterfall, there will be boats waiting for a short voyage directly to the bottom of the falls for 1.80EUR/2USD/20MAD, where visitors will catch a few rainbows and feel the mist of the waterfall. Aside from these fees, lunch is not included but can be purchased at a quaint restaurant overlooking the falls for 8.30EUR/9.30USD/90MAD. Orange juice stands are scattered throughout the falls, as well as traditional shops selling Moroccan goods and souvenirs.

[caption id="attachment_162705" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Photo by Natalia Correa[/caption]

All in all, the trip should cost about 16EUR/17USD/170MAD, without souvenirs. For this price, travelers will get much more than just a trip to a waterfall and a few minutes with playful monkeys—the serenity of the Tanaghmeilt village is a therapeutic experience.

Even the hike down to the natural pools born from the falls is quite relaxing, as the path is clear and smooth for the most part. Especially for experienced hikers, the trip should be a breeze with a beautiful view. Like any other hiking adventure, be sure to wear the proper footwear and bring along a bottle or two of water. Another must-have is swimwear, or at least clothing that can get wet.

After the three hour bus ride from Marrakech to the entrance of the village, visitors will be greeted by one of the local tour guides, who will introduce himself and briefly explain the itinerary for the day. During this time, he will also inform the group of the total length of the excursion and any fees to be collected at the end of the tour.

[caption id="attachment_162706" align="aligncenter" width="539"] Photo by Natalia Correa[/caption]

From here, the adventure will begin with a short walk under a shady path of olive trees with a few steep steps, scattered pools of water, and the first glimpses of the interior of the village peeking out through the trees. The tour guide will provide interesting tidbits of history relating to the village and its inhabitants, including the prominence of Jamaican hippies and Mexicans in the area.

The hippy presence is felt as soon as the group reaches the first large swimming pool at the bottom of the mountain. This region is lined with huts painted in all sorts of designs, some coated in stripes of yellow, red, and green and boasting images of Rastafari icon, Bob Marley.

Local men can be seen swimming and sunbathing on large rocks and women are frequently spotted doing laundry in the river or enjoying the sight of their children playing along the water. The environment is laid-back and the sparkling water inviting, although there might not be enough time alloted to go for a dive in the water just yet.

The tour will continue up the mountain toward a larger waterfall with plenty of time and room for swimming. Here, most tour groups will congregate and have a chance to set their belongings down, sunbathe, swim, and socialize with each other. Tourists from all over Africa and beyond frequent the falls. It is not strange to find people from the UK, Europe, and North America swimming in the same pool at the same time.

[caption id="attachment_162707" align="aligncenter" width="600"] Photo by Natalia Correa[/caption]

Adventurous swimmers will have a blast at this stop, for there are many diver-friendly spots to climb up to and jump down from. The water is refreshing and welcome after walking in the hot sun for some time.

This stop will also provide the opportunity to purchase fresh orange juice from vendors that will literally pull the orange right off the tree and juice it straight into the cup.

The group will continue their hike after swimming for a while and eventually reach the famous Ouzoud Waterfall. The impressive waterfall is hidden away until the very second the group reaches the point overlooking it, so the incredible view will often catch visitors off guard. This will be the first opportunity for a photo-op of the cascades, and the entrance to the short walk toward the boats at the bottom of the falls.

After the group splits up into smaller groups of 7 or 8, the boat will row close to the splash zone of the waterfall, where passengers will enjoy a misty shower and a gorgeous view of the village, mountains, and waterfall. Every detail of the waterfall will come to life—the ripples in the water will shimmer with rhythm, the mist will tickle sunkissed skin with playful droplets, and the mouth of the falls with expand to massive lengths when looked up at from the bottom.

[caption id="attachment_162708" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Photo by Natalia Correa[/caption]

The trip will have reached its peak at this point, and from here on out the pace will pick up as most of the attractions have been checked off the list. One more adventure awaits, however—the friendly monkeys just around the corner.

The monkeys of Ouzoud are wild; yet love to play with visitors, especially if they bring treats. There will be locals selling peanuts once the group arrives. There is no fixed price but be aware that they will be expecting some sort of tip once the group is finished feeding the monkeys.

These wild animals are comedic and comfortable around humans, so it is more than likely that they will immediately jump on visitors’ arms, legs, backs, and heads! Anything is fair game, especially for the baby monkeys who love to cling to every possible human body part. The group is sure to get some laughs out of the monkeys’ hilarious antics and the one member of the group that is too scared to feed them, yet inevitably gets embraced by one anyway.

[caption id="attachment_162709" align="aligncenter" width="641"] Photo by Natalia Correa[/caption]

Following the monkey feeding frenzy, the group will follow the final path toward the bus and say their goodbyes to the tour guide, who will collect his share of money and send the group off with blessings of health and well-being, and a wish for their speedy return.

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Taroudante - Morocco’s Palmeraie Resort in Marrakech received the 2015 World Travel Awards (WTA) for the best resort in Africa for the second consecutive year.

The 22nd edition of the regional finals of the WTA awards ceremony for Africa and the Indian Ocean took place on June 20 at the luxurious Kempinski Seychelles Resort in Baie Lazare, Seychelles.

The award, which is recognized globally as a hallmark of quality, acknowledged "not only the attractiveness and quality of service of the Palmeraie Resort but also the new group strategy developed which customizes travel products that meet the needs of all travelers,” the Resort said in a statement.

The 2015 World Travel Awards Grand Final Gala Ceremony will be organized at the Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort in El Jadida, Morocco.

The president of the World Travel Awards, Graham Cooke, said earlier in a press conference that “Morocco is the ideal destination for the World Travel Awards,country is growing rapidly to become the leading tourist destination in the region,” adding that “Morocco has “so much to offer, from the beaches of Agadir, to the splendor of the Atlas Mountains and the cosmopolitan chic of downtown Rabat.”

Established in 1993, the World Travel Awards came to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the tourism industry. The awards are based on votes by professionals from 171 countries who have travelled around the world.

Edited by Miriam El Ofir

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Rabat - Morocco’s TV channel 2M is moving forward to launch the African version of the musical reality TV show ‘The Voice’.

Al Ayam 24, citing sources from the channel’s administration, reported that state-owned 2M has allegedly signed a contract for exclusive rights to broadcast an African version of the singing competition, The Voice. The channel also owns the rights to the reality show, MasterChef Morocco.

The African version of the voice will be produced by the Moroccan production company Med Prod which is responsible for the successful reality TV show MasterChef Morocco.

The sources quoted by Al Ayam 24 did not unveil when the first edition of the Voice Africa will be launched nor did they reveal in what country  the auditions will be held.

The program will choose candidates across the African continent based solely on their voice. 

The show will highlight the exceptional talent of many candidates and will have the potential of leading them to fame.

The Voice proceeds in three phases: Blind Auditions, the Battle Rounds and the Live performance shows.

The Voice was originally launched in 2011 as The Voice Holland. Rights to broadcast the program were sold to over 45 countries in the past four years, including France, the UK and US.

Edited by Miriam El Ofir

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Rabat - Egyptian actor Omar Sharif, known for his roles in cinema classics such as Lawrence of Arabia and Doctor Zhivago, has died on Friday aged 83.

According to his agent, Steve Kenis, the Egyptian-born actor suffered a heart attack this afternoon in Cairo, Egypt.

Sharif was born in 1932 in Alexandria to a Catholic family but later converted to Islam to marry Egyptian actress Faten Hamama. The couple divorced in 1974 but Omar Sharif never remarried.

He won two Golden Globe awards and an Oscar nomination for his role Sherif Ali in David Lean's 1962 film Lawrence of Arabia. He won a further Golden Globe three years later for Doctor Zhivago.

Earlier this year, it was confirmed that Omar Sharif had been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.

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Cairo - Sheikh of Tariqa Tijaniyya in Egypt, Sheikh Ahmed Mohamed Al-Hafed Tijani, said that Sufism takes pride of place in Morocco and continues to play a key role in championing the values of tolerance and moderation of Islam.

Sheikh Al-Hafed Tijani, who speaking at a ceremony of the Tijaniyya sufi order on the occasion of the holy month of Ramadan, recalled the spiritual ties between Morocco and Egypt which are mirrored throughout history in the exchange of muslim scholars, saints and sufis who spared no effort to spread the genuine Islamic values of tolerance and moderation.

Speaking on the same occasion, Morocco's ambassador to Egypt Mohamed Saad Alami highlighted the excellent ties between Morocco and Egypt which are also reflected in the Sufi ties between the two countries.

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Rabat - The United Kingdom Foreign Office has encouraged British holiday makers to visit Morocco after it advised them to leave Tunisia in the wake of the beach attack that hit Sousse last month

Thousands of British tourists have returned home from Tunisia in response to the warning issued on Thursday by the United Kingdom Foreign office that a further terrorist attack in Tunisia is highly likely.

The beach attack in Tunisia which killed 38 people, including 30 Britons, pushed the required the Foreign Office to update its travel advice to British tourists and workers.

The Foreign Office advised against all but essential travel to Tunisia. Instead, it encouraged Britons to visit other destinations in the Mediterranean, including Morocco, according to the Mirror.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office say that there is a "general threat" of terrorism in Morocco, but it is overall trouble-free.

“Moroccan authorities have raised their National State of Vigilance and deployed additional security forces in major population centers,”it explained to the 500,000 British nationals who visit Morocco every year.

The other Mediterranean destinations that the Foreign Office sees as “safe”includes Turkey, France, Greece, Spain, Egypt and Algeria.

However, the Foreign Office warned Britons visiting Algeria to be vigilant and "exercise caution."

It is advising against all travel to Algeria’s borders with Mauritania, and 100km of border between Libya and Tunisia in a town south of Souk Ahras. It is also advising against travel to Tindouf and Tamanrasset city, in Tunisia.

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