BY: PEGGY & DICK BAKKER

 Peggy and I had visited Morocco as tourists 20 years ago but this was our first time as buyers. Traveling as business people is certainly an interesting way to experience the Berber-Arabic culture of the Atlas Mountains. 

 We traveled by train from Casablanca to the ancient capitals of Fes and Marrakech, with side excursions by horse, bus and taxi to the historic coastal port of Essaouira and the Middle Atlas Kilim production centre of Azrou.

 The old Medinas of these towns have a Biblical feel. Clay and stone buildings crowd the streets and alleys, causing them to twist and turn in wonderful ways. Horses and donkeys seem to be everywhere, and all the people seem to know one another. 

After spending just two days in one place they come to know us as well, and are quick to help. Never did we feel threatened or nervous, and were always coming across interesting sights and smells. Moroccans have been traders and salesmen forever. Normally when we buy in South East Asia there is very little haggling, but in Morocco haggling is the national sport; if you don’t they cannot respect you! 

We had quite an interesting time negotiating our way through the country. 

 This year they can also be found in Manotick Station, at the Third World Bazaar!

*Note this was in 2012, we have not had the pleasure to revisit this country in sometime so our Moroccan product is dwindling.