Morocco stands at the western extremity of the Arab and the Muslim world. Seperated only by 9 miles from Europe. A gateway for travellers into Africa. A country of inspiration and romantic allure for the westerner. Its greatest charm lies in the labyrinths of the imperial cities. Rabat, Marrakech, Meknes,and Fes. It is with no doubt that Morocco is home to an amazing rich architectural tradition and its medieval cities,Roman ruins,Berber fortresses,and beautiful Islamic monuments are among the the best examples of the their kind in the world.

Tangier, Casablanca, Marrakech...just the names of these cities and towns should stir a hint of spice in the nostrils of the most geographically challenged. Many Moroccan destinations have been mythologized, and for good reason, but the more jaded traveller may well moan about the extinction of the `real' Morocco. Still others will extol the country's unique living history, its shimmering light, its art.
Morocco is the ideal starting point for the traveller to Africa. An easy hop from Europe, it can be a friendly, hectic and stimulating place to get around in. Open-air markets throughout the country are piled high with rugs, woodwork, and jewellery.

Facts at a Glance:
Full country name: Kingdom of Morocco
Area: 710,850sq km
Population: more than 31million
Capital city: Rabat
People: 55% Arab, 44% Berber, 0.7% foreigners, 0.2% Jews
Languages: Arabic (officially) with Berber dialects, as well as French, Spanish and English.
Religion: Islam
political system: Constitutional monarchy
Head of State: King Mohammed VI

Economic Profile :
GDP: US$87.5 billion
GDP per head: US$3,100
Inflation:from 10% in the begging of the 1990’s to 1,5% in 2004
Major industries: Agriculture, manufacturing, fishing, tourism
Major trading partners: France, Spain, Italy, Germany , Great Britain.

Environment:
Spectacularly diverse, Morocco combines sand, sea and snow. The southern coast stretches to the edge of the Western Sahara while to the north the bulk of Morocco's population fills the foothills of the often snow-capped Atlas Mountains. The mountains are important obstacles against the invasion of the desert.
Between the mountains and Morocco's Atlantic coast are plateaus and plains which are fertile and well watered. In the extreme south, at the edge of the Anti-Atlas, the gorges which, like the rivers that flow at their bases, gradually peter out into the endless sand and stony wastes of the vast Sahara.
The `coolest of the hottest countries', Morocco's colder months are most un-African. In the higher regions in particular, winter conditions can be positively Arctic. In summer, the mountains are hot during the day and cool at night. The rainy season between November and April is something of a misnomer, bringing only occasional light rain.