One of the other things I noticed while in Morocco was the extent of poverty in some of the cities we visited. Near the tourist attractions, Moroccan children surrounded us and held out their hands for money or other tokens. Our group gave them ballpoint pens, which are expensive for Moroccan children to buy when attending school. The children would run at top speed to snatch the pens from our hands or the hands of others who were too slow. Although it was difficult for some members of our group to see so many children begging on the street or following us around, I think the contrast between the places we visited and the wonderful treatment we received in the hotels or at the Berber outpost made us realize how fortunate we are to have this opportunity. It was a humbling yet gratifying experience. I never would have thought I'd be able to travel to Africa, let alone ride a camel in the middle of the Sahara. I am grateful that American University's study abroad program has allowed me to take advantage of these opportunities.

Morocco is a beautiful country, and has many diverse landscapes, ranging from the desert to the mountains to lush, green fields to cool, shady oases. The temperature varies throughout the day, from baking hot to freezing cold, especially in the desert regions at night.

Moroccan food generally consists of steamed vegetables, spiced meats, flavored jams and pastes and couscous or rice. With the exception of one day, I luckily managed to avoid getting sick from the change of diet and was careful to not to drink unfiltered water. Some others in the group had a little more trouble adjusting to the food, but for the most part, we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.

I think traveling to Morocco also shines some light on parts of Spanish culture, especially those elements that were of North African or Muslim origin. For example, in Spain, people are very individualistic and there is less emphasis placed on group work. This idea of rugged individualism is understandable if you consider that Moroccans or other desert peoples who crossed into Spain in the 8th century came from a culture where they had to brave the sun and the elements, without help from anyone else. In places such as Cordoba or Granada, where Muslims built fountains or designed gardens filled with running water, you can see why the presence of potable water was almost like a godsend for them. After spending a couple of hours in the midafternoon in Morocco, especially in the desert, it is easier to understand why they constructed such places as shrines to this valuable natural resource.

This is a view of Ourzazate from above.