Food for the body and soul in Africa

Damien Enright hails the teeming markets of Morocco

DRIVING in Morocco is no hassle at all. It is a vast country, with green or dry mountains, deserts, extensive forests, verdant river valleys, lakes and rich, farming land. An hour’s ferry ride from the south of Spain takes one to Tangier, gateway to exotic North Africa. For those interested in wildlife and nature, a rented car allows one to access areas otherwise beyond reach.

Local hire companies charge about €40 a day, 40% less than big-name international renters. The man behind the desk will speak English, French, Spanish, Arabic, and possibly Mongolian. His office will be small and his cars may have a dent or two. However, I’ve never had one let me down. There is nothing to fear but fear itself.