Private: Tangier: A Crossroads Of Culture

Private: Tangier: A Crossroads Of Culture Photo #1 of 2 Photo copyright ShoreTrips.com.

Overview

Tangier is the gateway to Europe and the fusion of culture will inspire you!

Tangier is Africa’s Gateway to Europe. Just a stone’s throw across the Strait of Gibraltar from Spain, Tangier is a crossroads of cultures. Filled with incredible ocean views and green spaces, this Andalusian city has an entirely unique ambiance and has been an inspiration for artists and thinkers for centuries.

Morocco was the first nation to formally recognize the United States as an independent country, and both nations have shared peace and friendship ever since. We'll visit the American Legation, the first US property located outside of the United States, which symbolizes the close relationship between the nations. The American Legation is a beautiful Moorish-style building, designated a US National Historic Landmark, which houses an interesting museum detailing Moroccan-American diplomatic relations, an extensive library, and a cultural center.

You’ll also visit the historical centers of town, the seaside Kasbah - strategic tall-walled fort, and the labyrinth-like medina - which simply means "Old City". While exploring these areas, keep your eyes out for beautiful Moroccan leather and handicrafts, as well as interesting antiques that are the result of Tangier’s international and eclectic history.

From the Kasbah, continue on to enjoy a seafood meal at a lovely local restaurant. After lunch, relax at the terraced oceanfront Cafe Hafa. Sip on sweet Moroccan mint tea while sitting at the same simple mosaic tables that have hosted the likes of Jimi Hendrix, inspired the Beatles, and a favorite locale for many notable authors. Cafe Hafa is a Tangier must, absolutely not to be missed!

Beyond Tangier is the coast - Cap Spartel and the Cave of Hercules. Cap Spartel is the point of Africa closest to Europe. Delight in panoramic views, fresh ocean air, and the ideal photo opportunity. Stroll up to the iconic lighthouse, or simply stretch your legs and breathe in the Afro-European breeze. Further down from Cap Spartel, visit the Cave of Hercules. The Cave is so named because it is said to have played a role in the 11th Labor of Hercules. Mythology has it the cave sheltered Hercules en route to collect golden apples from the Garden of Hesperides. In addition to the Greek myth, the cave has eye-like markings along the walls said to have been created by the Phoenicians, and a sea opening in the shape of the continent of Africa. It is also said that Barbary Macaques first arrived at the Strait of Gibraltar via the cave - although this we cannot confirm nor deny!

Once you’ve completed your visit of these coastal sites, return to your ship or hotel having had an entirely unique Andalusian-Moroccan introduction, and likely, a burning desire to return and explore further!

- Entry fees to the Kasbah and the Medina are included in the price of the tour.
- Mint tea is included in the tour cost. Additional food and beverages are not included.
- Lunch is not included in the price of the tour and costs approximately $30 per person.
- One bottle of mineral water will be provided for each guest.

- While this tour is available for those in collapsible wheelchairs, please be aware assistance must be provided by someone in their party. The wheelchair guest must be able to transfer in and out of the tour vehicle and navigate some stairs.

Days offered: 7 days a week

Departures:

• 09:00 AM, duration: 8 hours