Writers, rock stars and eccentrics flocked to Tangier's cafés in the first half of the 20th century. Cliffside Café Hafa, overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar, was a favorite hangout of Tangier's most famous expat, writer and composer Paul Bowles.
Glen Pearson/cnn
Most mosques are off-limits to non-Muslims —
The towering Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca is one of the few mosques in Morocco open to non-Muslims.
courtesy Norbert Figueroa
Multilingual Moroccans will put you to shame —
Arabic is the official language, but you'll also hear French, Spanish and various dialects.
glen pearson/cnn
There's much more than Marrakech —
The Roman ruins of Volubilis can be found in Morocco's holiest town, Moulay Idriss.
Glen Pearson/cnn
If you don't like cumin, you'll starve —
Cumin is one of the main spices used to flavor pretty much everything in Moroccan cooking. It's also a popular natural remedy for upset stomachs.
Glen Pearson/cnn
Trains are cheap, comfy and reliable —
First class train travel in Morocco is affordable and worth it. Just be prepared to share your food.
Glen Pearson/cnn
Couscous is served on Fridays —
Proper couscous takes time to prepare, so in Morocco it's usually saved for Fridays, when families gather. It's pale, deliciously creamy and served with vegetables and/or meat or fish.
Glen Pearson/cnn
Riad rooftops rock —
The traditional Moroccan house (riad) comes with the perfect sunset terrace, which often serves as a place to hang the laundry. Visitors will find views of the Atlas Mountains from atop the luxurious digs at La Sultana in Marrakech.
courtesy La Sultana
When you hear 'balak!' watch out —
The narrow streets of Morocco's souks are filled with hagglers, hustlers, mule-drivers and motor scooters. Shouts of "Balak!" mean watch out.
Glen Pearson/cnn
It's not weird to be bathed by a stranger —
Never mind Morocco's posh hammams; nothing beats a visit to a no-frills public bathhouse. Just remember to bring your own towel.
