Morocco is predominantly a tea culture, famous for its "Moroccan mint tea" (a blend of gunpowder green tea, fresh mint, and sugar) served all day as a gesture of hospitality. While tea is the national drink, coffee is also very popular, particularly in urban cafes, with strong espresso or nos-nos (half-milk, half-coffee) commonly consumed.
Moroccans enjoy espresso-based drinks like nous-nous (a half-milk, half-coffee blend) and strong black coffee, particularly in cafes, where men gather for conversation and relaxation. Yet, coffee hasn't achieved the cultural dominance of tea. The distinction lies in how these beverages are embedded in tradition.
With the exception of Moroccan mint tea, Arabic coffee is the national drink of Morocco. Alike mint tea, there is a certain process that one must follow to obtain the perfect cup of coffee, also referred to Café Cassis.
Mint tea. Morocco's signature drink is more than refreshing. Mint tea is served with reverence, as a gesture of hospitality and welcome that warms both the mouth and the heart.
Morocco is known for its mint tea, which is made with green tea and fresh mint leaves. This refreshing drink is served throughout the day and is a staple of Moroccan cuisine. Other popular teas in Morocco include orange blossom tea and ginger tea.
Morocco is known for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes (Sahara Desert, Atlas Mountains), historic imperial cities (Fez, Marrakech, Rabat, Meknes) with labyrinthine medinas (old quarters) and bustling souks (markets) for crafts like rugs, leather, and pottery, plus its unique cuisine (tagines, couscous, mint tea) and rich Berber, Arab, and European influences evident in its architecture and traditions like hammams.
China is the largest tea-producing country in the world. In fact, it is the world's biggest exporter and consumer of tea. In 2022, China produced a staggering 3.35 million metric tons of tea.
Mint tea is the one drink you'll find on every Moroccan breakfast table. It's sweet, hot, and served with care — often poured high to create foam. Key features include: Green tea (usually Chinese gunpowder)
Yes, $50 (around 500 Moroccan Dirhams) is a good amount in Morocco, enough for a full day of budget to mid-range travel, covering meals, local transport, and small activities, though costs vary; it's very budget-friendly for tourists but can cover significant expenses like tours or nice meals for locals, making it feel like a lot for daily spending.
Despite the religious restriction, alcohol is nonetheless a part of Moroccan culture, especially in urban and tourist areas. You may find alcoholic beverage-serving bars, hotels, and restaurants in major towns like Casablanca, Marrakech, and Tangier that appeal to both locals and tourists.
For centuries, Muslim scholars and practitioners have: Used coffee to stay awake for tahajjud (night prayers). Enjoyed coffee as a mindful, social ritual after prayer. Associated coffee with hospitality, generosity, and connection.
The "15 15 15 coffee rule" (also Babbie's Rule of Fifteens) is a guideline for peak coffee freshness: unroasted green beans are best within 15 months of harvest, roasted beans are best within 15 days of roasting, and ground coffee should be brewed within 15 minutes of grinding to preserve maximum flavor, aroma, and oils before oxidation degrades them.
Yes, Morocco is generally considered very affordable for British tourists, offering significantly lower costs for food, transport, and accommodation compared to the UK, though prices rise in tourist hotspots like Marrakech; you can travel cheaply by embracing local food and transport, but expect higher prices for Western brands or luxury stays.
Moroccan women will usually have their sleeves cover their elbows, but as a tourist, that is not necessary. Stay away from strappy tank tops. If you are wearing pants, you will want a longer shirt.
A typical lunch begins with a series of hot and cold salads, followed by a tagine or dwaz. Often, for a formal meal, a lamb or chicken dish is next, or couscous topped with meat and vegetables. Traditionally, Moroccans eat with their hands and use bread.
Moroccan black soap is essential in Moroccan women's beauty routine. It is a dark paste made of dried olive peels and dried plants. Once in contact with wet skin, it foams like soap and prepares it for deep and gentle exfoliation.
The birthplace of tea, China leads the world in tea production. From green and white to oolong and pu-erh, the diversity of Chinese tea is astounding. China's tea culture is rich and complex, incorporating various preparation techniques and ceremonial practices.
Tea does not expire in the traditional ways that fresh food might. Instead, your tea leaves will lose their flavour and complexity if they are left too long collecting dust at the back of your cupboard. Remember to store tea properly and keep an eye out for the telltale signs your tea is past its peak.
