Moroccan cafés. Male-dominated, social arenas frequented by Moroccan men every night of the week, from 4-10pm. It is a staple of Moroccan culture to sit, people watch, or come for futbol matches. Last night, some of my friends joined Omar and his friends, Aness and Amid, to watch the Real Madrid v. Manchester United Champions League futbol match.
The sense of community was unparalleled, as all of the Moroccans were rooting for Real. Although the game ended in a tie, everyone there was cheering, applauding, and screaming at the television during each and every play. We drank cahwah b'haleeb (café olay) and ate pizza throughout the night. We were welcomed as Americans, as we have been in every location throughout our stay here. Interestingly, it was not a place to take our female friends, as it would have been culturally inappropriate based on Moroccan gender norms. Also of note, there was a prayer rug in the café for all men to use if they wanted to pray during the match.
I am very lucky to have brothers my own age, as they are able to take me places and explain things from a perspective much like my own. Omar and his friends have entertained and hosted my friends each night, and it's a cultural, educational and genuinely fun experience for all. All of my friends get along with them well and everyday, Omar, Ayoub, Nissim and I get closer and closer as well.
Just a great pic...
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