Exploring Morocco: What I learned during my ISA excursion to Tangier

Morocco is a land full of surprises. Even after living here for over a month now and having visited almost every major city, each new place has thrown me a curve-ball in terms of its culture and environment. From widely-known cities like Fez with its rich history and famed Medina to natural wonders that seem almost out of place like Ouzoud Falls, the North-African Kingdom holds more than one can imagine and see in one trip.

My ISA excursion to the northernmost city of Tangier showed me yet another side of Morocco that I did not expect–”It’s the future of Morocco!” my professor praised. About 20 miles (32km) south of Spain, separated by the Mediterranean Sea, Tangier sits on the North-African coast offering a mix of both Moroccan and European cultures. From the variety of Spanish, French, and Jewish architecture scattered throughout the city, to the welcoming locals who could speak more languages than you could count on one hand, Tangier showed me that Morocco truly does change with every location and offers a new experience at every city gate.

The Cape Spartel Lighthouse, towering above the great body of water where the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean meet.
The coast of Tangier overlooking the Mediterranean, the Strait of Gibraltar in full, shining view.
A mosque featuring unique architecture hidden in the old city in Tangier, as seen from deep in the Medina.
A diver prepares to jump into the waters below, standing in the mouth of the Caves of Hercules.

Samuel Poe is a student at the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville. He is an ISA Featured Photoblogger and studied abroad with ISA in Meknes, Morocco.

 

 

 

Leave a Reply