Agadir, Morocco

March 25, 2008


Located in southwest Morocco on the short of the Atlantic Ocean and the foot of the Atlas Mountains, Agadir has beautiful sandy beaches and has become a popular destination for Northern Europeans seeking a little “winter sun”. Agadir is not a typical Moroccan city, but instead a modern and busy town catering to the tourist trade and famous for its delicious and abundant seafood. An important fishing and commercial port, Agadir was the first sardine port in the world. During medieval times Agadir was a small fishing village. The Portuguese established a trading post here in 1505 but the city came under Moroccan control in 1541. A stronghold was built on top of the hill overlooking the bay and the city became prosperous for two centuries. The arrival of a German gunboat to Agadir in 1911 triggered the “Agadir Crisis” between France and Germany, allowing France to establish a protectorate over nearly the entire kingdom of Morocco. In 1960, Agadir was almost totally destroyed by an earth quake lasting a mere 15 seconds, but measuring over 9.0 on the scale!!!! This devastating act of nature buried the city and killed nearly 15,000 people. Reconstruction began in 1961, thus the city looks nothing like a “traditional” Moroccan city.

I decided to take a tour into the country side of Morocco and headed for about an hour into Taroudant. On our way we visited the Kasbah (fort) and took in the panoramic view over the city of Agadir and the Atlantic Ocean. Camel drivers were there to offer rides as we looked down on colorful fishing boats and a protected harbor. Driving on we eventually encountered a herd of goats as they relaxed perched in the branches of the trees. What a curious site that seems to be distinctively something the goats of Morocco do. I had read about this and was delighted to actually see these animals seemingly very happy in their lofty perches.

Once in Taroudant we found red mud walls, built in the 16th century, which are typical of this region lending certain uniqueness to the city and creating a feeling that is quintessentially Moroccan. Capturing the essence of life centuries ago in Taroudant requires virtually no imagination, for the town gives the distinct impression that not much has changed in a very long time. The distinctive essence of this serene town is best discovered at its wonderful souks (markets) located in the old town medina area – among the most colorful in Morocco.

With thirty people in tow, some on walkers and one in a wheelchair, our guide dared take us into these souks. It was a bit scary to say the least. Crowded beyond belief with locals doing their daily shopping....from eggplants to bicycle tires, shoes, scarves, jewelry, spices, gasoline, furniture, music....you name it...it was here. Unfortunately the guide didn’t seem to realize that he was dealing with people that moved a bit slower than he did and it wasn’t long until we were separated from one another. Luckily the ship’s escorts were in the rear and were able to coral the group and finally met the guide again. One inattentive and determined member of our group was determined to shop even though we had been admonished to avoid it in these crowded shops. She was unconcerned when the guide expressed his displeasure with her behavior. I continue to be amazed by the people that seem to live only in their world with no concern for others. Regardless, we finally made it out of the markets...all 30 of us...and eventually made our way back to the ship just in time to sail for Dakar, Senegal.

It was a tiring but interesting day....one that made me so appreciate my easy life in the states! I suspect that more and more of the days ahead will underscore how comfortable we are in our lives and how we take them for granted....stay tuned!