June 2012, Breian S. Brockington
It’s been two years and I still haven’t seen all there is to
see in this country. Every day presents itself as a new adventure. And I take
it all in stride; at least I think I do. Daily task become an epic tale of
magic, foreign languages, bribery, the occasional polite gesture and of course
tragedy. My time here really could be portrayed as the next big sci-fi trilogy.
Living in Morocco has been a curse and a blessing all in itself. I have learned
the value of simplistic living and embraced the joys of First World Problems.
Yes, you just read that right. I now value some of the trivial issues we have
in the states and other first world countries. Although I find the term third
world to be a little offensive and demeaning, I assure you it is definitely “Another
World”. Now I know that television will have you believe that Morocco is this
exotic getaway in the North of Africa, complete with camel rides, Moroccan tea,
and belly dancers. However, living here as a "local foreigner" has given me access to the
trenches and luxuries Morocco has to offer. But how do the lows and hi’s
compare to first world living? In order to answer this question for those
thinking of making that big move to Morocco or else where I’ve compiled four
categories that will paint a verbal picture of 3rd World vs 1st
World Living.
Number 1: Food
Plain and simple, there are fewer preservatives, pesticides,
and it’s inexpensive to shop for groceries in a 3rd World Country.
Being that I am American I can only speak for my country. I must say that
buying healthy foods in America have become very expensive. A $4.50 bag of
pesticide pumped apples at home would cost about $1.50 here. They are smaller,
healthier and if not eaten within a week they’re considered bad. The prepackaged
bread that we usually pay $2.15 for is less than 0.50 and is baked fresh every
day. Yes there are major grocers here and I do frequent them but only for
things I’m unable to find at the open markets. The bottom line: The food is
healthier. Now, if you prefer to enjoy your food outside the home that expense
will run you roughly the same amount as it would in the states or Europe.
However, your portions will be significantly less than what the States usually
provide.
Number 2: Diversity
Just about everywhere I go in America or Europe I can see
someone who looks just like me. But in Morocco people have a hard time
believing I’m American. My skin color convinces the masses even when we speak
that I must be from some other African country. Although I have no problem with
being referred to as African, I hate the subtle undertones of racism that
accompany those comments. I guess it's not that far off from the States and Europe.
Morocco may not have a vast color palette but its diversity shows in the many languages spoken in this North African country. In the north it
is quite common to walk down the street and here conversations spoken in Spanish.
With Spain being only a ferry ride away it’s no wonder Spaniards tried and
succeeded for many years in ruling this part of Morocco. Darija; a dialect of classic Arabic is the preferred by locals. Arabic is the official language but is rarely
spoken outside of business circles. French can be heard throughout the entirety
of Morocco, it's their economic language. So living here would be awesome if
learning a new language is on your bucket list.
Number 3: Daily
Convenience
If you don’t miss anything in the states you will definitely
miss the ability to get around easily. At home taxi’s, buses, trains and subways are abundant and at your service when needed. I can’t say the same for Morocco. Have
you ever been wedged between 4 other people in the back of a 1982 Mercedes? How about sitting side by side in the front passenger seat? You will in Morocco unless you pay for the whole seat.
Yes, when procuring a taxi you initially pay for half a
seat. Trust me it is in your best interest to pay for the entire seat. Unless crowded spaces are your thing, I say public
transportation in an under developed country is a no go. Fair warning, Morocco can get pretty hot in the summer...Think about it. Other amenities such
as online banking are pretty nonexistent. Mailing letters, notarizing official documents, paying speeding tickets and simply buying jewelry and clothing are all
things I enjoy in a developed country.
Number 4: Traditions
and Culture
When arriving in Morocco you see images of the Berber people
(indigenous people of Morocco), some who still live a very traditional lifestyle. You hear the sounds of Gnawa music, and consume traditional meals like couscous are every Friday, as it was done years ago. A trip to Marrakesh or Fez will
allow you to see old souks, (traditional markets) that still operate through
bargaining. A glimpse of snake charmers and old story tellers are common sights as well. All of
these elements give you the sense that although Morocco is striving to compete with
other Arab countries, they still hold tightly to their customs. Of course we
have our own traditions in America like Fourth of July BBQ’s, Easter egg hunts
and New Year’s Eve fireworks, among others. However, there are so many
subcultures in America the line between culture and tradition is usually
blurred. What an underdeveloped country may lack in economics and convenience
it definitely makes up in culture and tradition.
