ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
Middle East and North AfricaTHURSDAY



either I need to become Mrs. Clean...or he needs to relax a bit...

There is at least one other option you've not mentioned :whistle:


maybe my brain isn't functioning well...what's the other option? kicking him in the shin? :) :) :lol:

Put some prozac in his morning coffee..that should do the trick :whistle:


hahahaha...reminds me of his first real American muscle relaxer hehehehehe...you all shoulda seen it..My husband had never been so relaxed and easily pleased in his whole life :) it was a hooooooot


People, you are scaring me. Do your husbands not do housework?!
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2006-11-02 19:58:00
Middle East and North AfricaTHURSDAY


either I need to become Mrs. Clean...or he needs to relax a bit...

There is at least one other option you've not mentioned :whistle:

:thumbs:

I hope you are thinking what I am thinking.
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2006-11-02 19:55:00
Middle East and North AfricaTh Th Th Thursday!
Exactly. I second what Rebecca said. Habibiti, Aziza, Houbi - these are terms of endearment that only have meaning if you know the emotion and feeling behind the word. I know men (Moroccan and American) that overly use "honey" and "sweetie" yet have little real respect or affecction for their SO's.

I used to be upset that my husband never buys me flowers or cards, etc. (for birthday or Valentine'es etc.) Then I opened my eyes. In Morocco he was always buying me phone cards, checking my buta gas (propane tank) for leaks, fixing the toilet, mopping the floor, cooking me great meals (unasked, just to treat me). For Thanksgiving he cooked me a huge chicken (couldn't find a -dead- turkey!) and a fruit salad and khobz. I've known men to slather jewels and flowers on their girlfriends/wives, but not take care of them when they are sick nor check their car for safety issues nor help them with household chores, etc.

Don't despair!



I don't think it is a good idea to compare what your husband does or thinks is right to say to what other men do. Each person is different. What is important is that you feel your fiance loves and respects you. Does it really matter if he calls you habiti or buys you flowers if you know that? If you don't feel that he does, to me that is what your problem is. Him saying habibti to please you isn't going to change much of anything.


Ok this is probably stupid but I'm upset. :(

I asked him last night why he doesn't and hasn't ever called me "habibti".

He blushed and said the word and said that we don't do that here before we are married. Then he said it means "lover" so I blushed and said ooooh.

Well then I got to thinkin...you guys all call each other habibti and I know you don't "play for the other team" so what gives.

Now I'm in a foul mood 'cause I'm like why would he lie about something like that??? I mean even after he said it last night he said, "see now people are looking over here at me 'cause they know what I said and they understand".

I know he hates it when the place is crowded and he has to shut the cam off if others are behind him because he said he gets very angry if they look at me. Maybe that's why but still I'm po'd. (and due for aunt flo any second so maybe that's it.)

I'm really bugged though. Feel like crying over it. :(


We went home and Adil went straight to bed and left me to clean all the dishes in the kitchen by myself. I did half the dishes and I am going to do the other half tonight. Anyway, I think I can get Adil to help me tonight because he is home early, he probably wont, but it'l be worth the try.



I'd be so mad I'd make him get up and help! :angry:


deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2006-10-19 13:54:00
Middle East and North AfricaMENA Country Stats on VJ

Does anybody have an explanation why there is only such a small number for people from Tunisia? Especially compared to Morocco?



I have no clue but when you look at it on the map it's wicked tiny.


Might have something to do with poverty levels. May not be as many guys looking to get out of Tunisia. Just a wild guess.
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2007-02-10 15:41:00
Middle East and North AfricaSo What Do YOU Do????
I am a mother to a 9 week old baby and a freelance writer/editor. My academic background is anthropology, my vocational background is maternal / child heath and Alzheimer's care.
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2007-02-03 16:09:00
Middle East and North AfricaDarija

baraka - 'enough' or 'ok' ->surprised nobody said that yet!

waheshni - 'i miss u'

dush (with 'u' pronounced as in alphabet) - 'shower'

kuli (same 'u') - eat

bsmilia - what you're supposed to say be4 eating, taking a shower or whatever good thing you're doing if you're a muslim(a)

aji nti (nta) - reply to 'aji' - you come here, 'nti' for a man, i think, 'nta' for a woman

behher - 'how ru doing?' (i think)

bliati - 'later'


Sorry to correct (teacher mentality) but it is:

"Twa7shatek"= I miss you
"Bismillah" means In the Name of God
"Onta" for you (male) and "Onti" or "Ontiya" for you (female)
"bletty" for wait (literally means one moment)
"bekhir" means How are you? (Really just means Good/Fine?)
"baraka" means grace but has come to mean "that's enough" (especially in conjunction with the ubiquitous "safi")


Here are some bad ones: "khnouna" meaning SNOT, "7azuk" meaning FART and "zeb" meaning ####### There are many times I have said: "3andak zeb seghir, mbrouk 3lik" to those men who harrassed me on the street.
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2007-02-18 01:13:00
Middle East and North AfricaTotally frustrated

I haven't had time to read the other responses, but I wanted to say that I think almost all of us with ME/NA SOs have experienced this from someone close to us. The media has bred so much ignorance and those who lack real experience of a different culture just are not capable of understanding your point of view. What I found was it took time for people to get to know my husband and to begin to see he's not such a bad guy or an opportunist. Now my parents are so nuts about him its annoying to me. LOL These were the people who said they could NEVER accept that I married "one of those people." I know your frustration and your pain, but all any of us can do is stand in our present truth, whatever it may be and take strength in that. No one knows the future or what it will bring, but we do have today. The truth will speak for itself. Hugs.



i have to disagree with your comment about people who "lack experience of a different culture" feel this way...
my parents are well educated and well traveled (and my dad is even an immigrant) but still feel this way. :blink:

i think its just them not understanding my love for someone with so many obstacles yet wanting to take these risks anyway. they think i should find someone here who i would have less of a chance of having problems with. more logical thinking i guess. yes i could easily marry an american with similar beliefs to myself and STILL have problems, but in their eyes it would still make my life easier.



I think it can be lack of a experience but it also isn't necessarily the case.

The reality is these relationships are not necessarily easy. I think some of the concerns friends/family express are real issues that can arise and should be considered (most men will want to raise their children Muslim, Morocco will not let children leave without the father's permission, etc). My stepfather, mother and aunt have all lived in the Middle East. They were and continue to be supportive of my marriage but they did address things they thought my husband and I should discuss - most of which we already had. However, they did bring up a few things we had not explored as deeply and I am glad we dealt with those things. Also, on their advice, I talked to some family friends that are in Arab/American marriages who were able to offer real life experience. Anyway, I think the concerns can be a positive thing if you listen with an open mind rather than just putting up a defense. So many people find themselves encountering problems they never anticipated that can be big struggles and by exploring their concerns, you can may end up resolving some things earlier than later.



You beat me to it!

I have read these responses and thought of this issue in a different way. It must be very very hard to see your daughter leave the country and fall in love with someone over the internet -- and not know what is going to happen. This is not necessarily prejudice against Arabs or Muslims, but a real concern and yes, fear, about the welfare of a loved one. I have to admit, if my sister (if I had one) told me she was in love with some guy from Fill-in-the-blank country and that she was travelling to see him and possible get married -- well, I might wonder for a moment if she had gone crazy. Over time, and after meeting these wonderful husbands, family will ease up, I think -- and so would I.

Point being -- try to understand their concern as a good thing. It is difficult for most of us to fathom an internet affair, especially one that traverses oceans and continents and cultures. A parent that has seen you go through a painful divorce might also feel a little sensitive about seeing you embark on a (let's face it) risky adventure (in a country where you will be totallly dependent on someone you met over the internet).

Having said that, the blantant anti-Arab and anti-Muslim sentiment is not fair (I also had a few friends tell me to go watch that movie "Not Without My Daughter." Feh!) and I agree about how terrible and frustrating that is.

Someone above (I think abdouandjen) wrote about her father not being understanding and being an immigrant himself - I think this speaks for itself - he has a GOOD reason to be concerned, It is difficult for immigrants to get (decent) jobs here, especially at first. It is had to make a cross-cultural union work, especially at first. And it would be unloving for a parent / sibling / friend to not at least question what you are doing.

Like Rebecca said above -- there are other reasons. Many countries in question have some pretty f**cked-up laws regarding women and children. In Morocco a woman cannot leave the country with her children without the husband's permission. There are laws that punish women and reward men. If your family does any little bit of research they are sure to find these things out.

Remember, they haven't met your prince charming yet -- and when they do, Chwiya b Chwiya (little by little) -- they can learn to love him the way that you do. But I think it is fair to give them the buffer of concern and questioning up front.

I realize I have written only of marriages via internet - but I do see that a lot of people here on VJ MENA have met online.

Amanda
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2007-02-19 14:40:00
Middle East and North AfricaOlder Wife Interview help


The I-130 has been approved, and the I-129F is in the envelope. I added all kinds of info regarding red flags, including the age difference, but I hear even with all that, it can be a big concern for the consulate. So, before I mail it, I'd like to make sure I haev done all I can do.

Frankly, it's me, the USC, who's doing all the work since up til now the paper work is at this end. Any suggestions as to how I can prep my husband, who seems rather oblivious as to why age would be a problem. Anyone with such a gap who has been thru this, do you have any good advice re prepping for his interview?



We literally spent hours sitting and discussing our age difference in preparation. We looked at it from all angles and discussed our feelings and thoughts about it until he was so comfortable with the subject he had no trouble answering when asked about it. There was no "coaching" just letting him get in touch with his own opinions so that when he was drowning in his nerves he was able to give his opinion smoothly and with the confidence it deserved.



I agree there should be no "coaching" -- just let him use his natural knowledge of you to show the vallidity of the relationship. There is nothing you can do to take the age difference "red flag" away - it will stand. However, because you are already married, as someone said, this will be less of an issue. Also, if I remember, you lived with him in Morocco already? If so, or if you have spent considerable time in the country this will help. Just let his natural knowledge of you and his real emotions guide him. If they sense he has been coached or is robotically listing off information, this will hurt you both.
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2006-10-07 12:58:00
Middle East and North AfricaA Broken Journey

I want to make one final post then I'll just fade into the woodwork. This morning for the first time I put on a lovely short sleeved shirt, exposing the colorful blotches on my arms, and came to work. I drew a smiley face on one of the bruises and realized God has tapped me on the shoulder and given me a wonderful opportunity to recreate myself. It made me smile. Yes, I love my husband. That makes me smile too. It doesn't mean what he did is excusable and I don't know really know if he will be with me again or not. I have today. I have on short sleeves with no regret or shame, I have a smiley face on my left arm and a smile on my face and a hope in my heart and THAT is what will get me through this whether I return to him or send him packing.

You can think I'm crazy, but the American Indians held a belief that the Great Spirit would leave tokens and reminders of things to come, sometimes in the form of an animal appearing unexpectedly, a face in the clouds, a sudden breeze. Yesterday morning I had to leave to work early. I vomitted twice and felt so unbelievably tired. As I was walking to my car, a white feather fell at my feet. I said, "Thank you, God." I went home, slept 6 hours, spent the evening watching tv with my teenaged son and woke up this morning with hope that whatever the future brings, it will be ok.


You are in denial. I really hope you get the help you need.
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2007-05-31 11:54:00
Middle East and North Africapregnancy
I got pregnant in Morocco -- and we were not married yet (oh the horror!). Nobody cares. If anything it seemed to speed up the process. Our entire visa journey/process took 1 month start to finish. Good luck.
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2007-08-31 10:11:00
Middle East and North AfricaSlightly sensitive Muslim topic re: Ramadan :) (ladies only please)

I do pray, fast and read the Quran during menses. So do the other women in my family, but that is what happens when knowedgable (not feminist) Muslim women do their own studying and interpretation. They don't always come up with the same conclusions as do men.

BTW, women used to attend mosque during menses and pray as they squated over a bowl bleeding. Also, the entire issue is more complex than simply bleeding or not bleeding; there are degrees of bleeding, colors and consistancy of the blood to be considered. It's not as cut and dried as often presented to be.


Yay!

But why the comment about feminism? Why is everybody so afraid of feminism? Szsz, your posts are often about showing the reality of women's rights in Islam -- as opposed to the erroneous findings that are generally patriarchal interpretations. This is feminist!
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2006-09-29 19:11:00
Middle East and North AfricaSlightly sensitive Muslim topic re: Ramadan :) (ladies only please)

Desheela -- You're right about the 40 day cloistering (although my husband's sister had her baby and wasn't cloistered maybe just spent a lot of time at her moms getting help lol!) But my husband said that the sexual relations must cease for 40 days and I said "Well where did you get that? I want to know where that comes from." He said "I don't know that's just how it is" Which was not an adequate response for me. So (don't take this the wrong way ladies). Doctor's say it is best not to have intercourse in the last month of pregnancy because it can bring on pre-term labor, AND according to my lovely husband there is suppose to be no "relations" 40 days afterwards - that is over 2 months time!!!! Not that I really think I will be incredibly interested in any action after having a child but within a month odds are pretty good haha! I guess it just goes back to me not understand these prohabitions. I really want to know where the prohabitions for men are. When are they dirty? Only after having intercourse with a woman (or using the toilet - which is an insult in my opinion). Any other times? *feminist retreats to her cave*


Thanks for clearing that up. I will ask my husband his take on this as well.

BUT I HAVE TO INTERJECT -- Sex in the last month of pregnancy is ABSOLUTELY FINE unless you have some condition or your waters have already broken (in which case, infection is a possibility), In fact sexual intercourse is thought to bring on a stalled labor -- the substances in semen soften the cervix and orgasm is good exercise for the uterus. Even if it is not needed for bringing on a late labor, hell -- we should get it while we can. Everything I have read (and according to my 2 midwives) says that sex cannot bring on pre-term labor unless you already have some sort of condition or are on bedrest. It is fine for a normal pregnancy.

Let me in at your feminist cave :thumbs:
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2006-09-29 19:06:00
Middle East and North AfricaSlightly sensitive Muslim topic re: Ramadan :) (ladies only please)

I don't know why but the term "unclean" just doesn't bother me that much. There are so many other things out there I'm concerned about it and that just isn't big enough to worry about. I guess I'm not a feminist.


Feminism is simply the belief that women and men have equal rights, and the social movement thereof.
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2006-09-29 18:59:00
Middle East and North AfricaSlightly sensitive Muslim topic re: Ramadan :) (ladies only please)



I'm curious about something. I'm wondering how you ladies feel about the implication that you are somehow "unclean" during your period. I know that personally I would have a hard time accepting that, given that it is such a natural and God-given gift. I don't mean to offend, I'm just trying to understand.

]


Not to be gross, but it has to do with the body "excreting". Your body is to be clean and simply can't be considered so if this situation exists. It's not a judgement on female biology.


I guess it's something that's too ingrained in me to understand.


It is difficult for me, too. I hate to admit it, but it is these sorts of details that ostracize me from Islam, as much as I love and respect it. For me, loving my "excretions" is part of the ballgame.

Anyone ever read the book _The Red Tent_? This helped me a little with the whole "unclean/clean woman" dichotomy.

Jen - I do have a hard time accepting it. Honestly I do. I think "unclean" is the wrong word to be used in translation at least that's what my husband has said, but we can't come up with a better word. There are a lot of things that I am learning about and understanding and accepting but this is just not one of them. I don't want my husband to ever think of me as unclean. Also after I have our child I'm considered "unclean" for 40 days! 40 days!!!!! I've had a child and I've got news for the men out there - there is no bleeding or etc for 40 days after a child is born, if there were there would be some serious complications IMO.


This is what I mean. I think it is that as a feminist and a Westerner and blah blah blah I am hung up on the baggage associated with that word "unclean." Then again, I need to maybe differentiate between the Judeo-Christian connotation of that word (think original sin, woman-as-evil-vessel, etc and the Islamic meaning which is more technical and imperfect in translation, -as Amera stated- than oppressive).

Amera - quesion: Is the 40 days for sexual relations or something else? I know in Morocco that women are cloistered and taken care of for 40 days to "recover" (I also know that this exists in a lot of different cultures and interesting that it corresponds to our bio-medical standard of the 6-weeks post-partum). I am due in November, so I am thinking about these things too.
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2006-09-29 14:24:00
Middle East and North AfricaThe moan and groan thread

Religious people like sex too. God talks about sex in the Quran, and the Sunnah of the Prophet has never been shy about it. If it's good enough for them, it's good enough for me.

Prude patrol, please continue haranging. Your need for drama is never ending.


Riiiigggghtt. It couldn't possibly be that the hypocrisy of some is being pointedly revealed? The Prophet might have something to say about married muslimas who blast their bedroom business on a public forum. Or maybe he was more of a Totally Rad Open Guy About Sex than I thought. If its Prudes vs. Proud Vibrator Owners Who are Married but Will Joke About Vibrators on an Open Forum with Men Who Aren't Their Husbands, I'll be on the Prude Team.


I love to read anything you write. I can't find a smiley that nods its head strongly enough.
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2007-01-20 15:37:00
Middle East and North AfricaTips to help your SO adjust
I have a general question.

Do your husbands or fiances NOT come to the states with money?

Just curious.
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2006-10-12 11:54:00
Middle East and North AfricaRaising bi-cultural kids



Me and Yacine plan on teaching our children English first of all, of course..

then we also want them to speak French and Kaybile... Arabic doesn't have much of an importance because it is not in their bloodline...

When they get old enough, we plan on sending them to GRANDMA'S house in Algeria so we can get some much needed alone time.. or we will go with them.. lol



It's much easier if they learn French and Kaybile before English. I spoke nothing but Arabic until I was 5 years old. I learned English in school but I still speak Arabic fluently. What I have noticed is that the parents that I know that speak nothing but their language in their home attain alot more sucess with their kids being fluent in that lauguange. Alot of times kids become ashamed to speak another language once they get older.



agreed... I think it will be easier to teach them french first.. and I imagine that will come naturally since me and Yacine speak French together... mixed in with Arabic and Kaybile.

Kaybile is the language spoken in Yacine's family's household.. but every now and then they add in arabic words, so sometimes I mix up the two !! For example, when Henia's fiancé visited us .. he is arab.... I told him "Qayum"... and he was like "Huh?" ... I said it means sit down.. and then I realized it was Kaybile..
There are a lot of kaybile words that are obviously not arabic because they have sounds that don't exist in arabic.. "itttch agghrom" = "kul khobz" = "eat bread" ... but there are some words that could be an arabic word because they have the same sounds. I know a lot of words and phrases but geez I may confuse the kids...... :lol:


:D Cool, so it is Berber, I understand. We also say "tish agghom" for eat bread (no way to explain that strange sound) and "qeem" for sit... Wow. Is there a written system for Kaybile? Tiffinagh? We have Tiffinagh here but no one can read it except the die-hard Amazigh pride folks in the south (and me!)
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2006-07-21 16:38:00
Middle East and North AfricaRaising bi-cultural kids

Do most of you plan on using Arabic names for your children or more American sounding names?

If we are blessed with children, I want to select Arabic names (actually have a few picked out).

Rebecca


I am currently pregnant. We are using one Arabic name and one name from my family - his tradition and mine. (A first and a middle, not sure which will come first)
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2006-07-21 16:33:00
Middle East and North AfricaRaising bi-cultural kids

Me and Yacine plan on teaching our children English first of all, of course..

then we also want them to speak French and Kaybile... Arabic doesn't have much of an importance because it is not in their bloodline...

When they get old enough, we plan on sending them to GRANDMA'S house in Algeria so we can get some much needed alone time.. or we will go with them.. lol


Is Kaybile Amazigh (Berber)? - exuse my ignorance. I am interested because my husband and I plan to teach our child Berber (Tamazight -- High Atlas, in this case) too -- especially since it was the first language we spoke together (along with English of course). Learning about Amazigh culture is very important to us.
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2006-07-21 16:14:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresPOE failed to stamp visa!

I have a strange and frustrating issue! My husband and I filed DCF in Casablanca, Morocco. He came over here a few weeks ago through JFK POE. He tells me they were very busy and he ended up translating for other immigrants. They asked him a few questions and then said "welcome" and sent him on his way.

Nobody stamped his passport!

Now, after waiting for 2 weeks for a SS card and the permanent resident card, we get a f**cked-up letter in the mail from the USCIS service center in Texas stating that the POE failed to stamp the passport (duh) and in order to receive a green card we must send proof of a POE stamp. Did you read that? They are asking us for proof of something that they failed to provide. The letter literally contradicts itself within one paragraph.


I don't know who's worse. The agent who "failed" to stamp your husband's passport or your husband who "failed" to get it stamped.


Huh? Was it my husband's responsibility to stamp his own passport and complete his paperwork, then craft a green card and send it to himself? When he got to immigration at JKF they asked him to translate for other immigrants and made him wait. After that they started the process then just left him standing there. After several minutes he asked the officer "Is that all?" The officer said "yes" so my husband left the room and went to his next gate. He did think it strange, but this is his first time passing through a US POE, I don't really expect him to know the procedure.

Anyway, all is well now. The officer has already stamped the passport and is overnighting it to us FedEx. I really wanted the NYC stamp, not a local stamp (I talked to the director at the most local CBP here in Tennessee) to deter future incompetency and silliness in the future (who knows what immigration will chose to question? Expecially someone from a Muslim country). It was all handled pretty well by JFK Customs I think. I suppose this would embarrass them politcally if people knew they were letting people "slip in."

It does not have to happen in NY.. you can do a deferred inspection at ANY CBP POE. Look at the link that meauxna gave you, go to the one that is closest to you and see what they can do for you.

I talked to the director of my local Customs and Border Patrol. He agreed with this in theory but said that Imiigration being a different section of DHS might question why the stamp said "Nashville" instead of "New York." He did say he was willing to do it, though.

In the end, actually Fedexing the pasport to JFK has been easier -- mainly because I am full term pregnant and (obviously) husband cannot drive here yet (no green card, no DL, etc.). It was handled quite well by one officer in NY - he personally stamped it today and has overnighted it to us.

Just FYI, future reference....

Thanks for all advice. :star:
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2006-11-16 19:28:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresPOE failed to stamp visa!




Thanks, it makes more sense now.

I looked at the letter again. It states that the POE "failed to stamp the application materials" at the airport and that we need to send in "proof of a stamp of entry at the POE" -- but they stamped NOTHING. It looks like he never even went through an airport at all. In fact his passport is blank expect for the visa that the consular pasted in there and one exit stamp in Casablanca.

Hoping this won't get too bad. But I will take your advice and start calling tomorrow.

Thanks again!

Examine the Immigrant Visa very carefully---the endorsement is put there and it might blend in.
The letter might be referring to something else besides the visa, but that's unlikely.

It should resolve fairly easily--the other deferred inspections that have posted came out fine.


THANK YOU SO MUCH for this tip. It has saved me literally hours of frustration.

The USCIS office in Texas knew NOTHING and gave me the run around. But I called CPB as you suggested and they are taking care of it -- we are Fedexing the passport and they will stamp it as if they were stamping it the day he arrived in country.

I suppose this sort of thing makes them look bad, and in fact, the officer said this is the ONLY time he has even encountered someone who was able to slip through immigration without a stamp. Strange.

Again, THANKS. I HEART VJ!



I would not send it in if I were you. This is too important to trust the CBP to do the right thing without you there to explain and direct them what you need and why. Remember the person who talked to you on the phone may not be the one who gets the envelope and may have no idea what to do with it. Take the time, get in the car and drive to the nearest CBP POE and get the passport stamped.


New York is too far from Tennessee and I am due (pregnant) in 5 days. You do the math :P
I did talk directly to an officer who will personally stamp it and send it FedEx overnight. We just need this so badly (so he can get his green card and driver's license etc). The officer was very apologetic - he did mention this was the only time he had heard of this happening with an immigrant visa.
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2006-11-15 16:01:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresPOE failed to stamp visa!


Thanks, it makes more sense now.

I looked at the letter again. It states that the POE "failed to stamp the application materials" at the airport and that we need to send in "proof of a stamp of entry at the POE" -- but they stamped NOTHING. It looks like he never even went through an airport at all. In fact his passport is blank expect for the visa that the consular pasted in there and one exit stamp in Casablanca.

Hoping this won't get too bad. But I will take your advice and start calling tomorrow.

Thanks again!

Examine the Immigrant Visa very carefully---the endorsement is put there and it might blend in.
The letter might be referring to something else besides the visa, but that's unlikely.

It should resolve fairly easily--the other deferred inspections that have posted came out fine.


THANK YOU SO MUCH for this tip. It has saved me literally hours of frustration.

The USCIS office in Texas knew NOTHING and gave me the run around. But I called CPB as you suggested and they are taking care of it -- we are Fedexing the passport and they will stamp it as if they were stamping it the day he arrived in country.

I suppose this sort of thing makes them look bad, and in fact, the officer said this is the ONLY time he has even encountered someone who was able to slip through immigration without a stamp. Strange.

Again, THANKS. I HEART VJ!
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2006-11-14 13:33:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresPOE failed to stamp visa!

hi, I guess I should have added more.. :)

Deferred Inspection is a function of the Customs & Border Patrol (cbp.gov). I'd expect you will have to go back to the airport or the nearest correct office (see their website) and get your business taken care of--this does happen every now and again.
When you go, take all the evidence you can--case paperwork etc AND any proof you have that he arrived when he did: bording passes, ticket receipt etc.

That's my best idea.

If you want to put the letter language up verbatim, it might say something else?


Thanks, it makes more sense now.

I looked at the letter again. It states that the POE "failed to stamp the application materials" at the airport and that we need to send in "proof of a stamp of entry at the POE" -- but they stamped NOTHING. It looks like he never even went through an airport at all. In fact his passport is blank expect for the visa that the consular pasted in there and one exit stamp in Casablanca.

Hoping this won't get too bad. But I will take your advice and start calling tomorrow.

Thanks again!
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2006-11-13 21:02:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresPOE failed to stamp visa!
Hi everybody,

I have a strange and frustrating issue! My husband and I filed DCF in Casablanca, Morocco. He came over here a few weeks ago through JFK POE. He tells me they were very busy and he ended up translating for other immigrants. They asked him a few questions and then said "welcome" and sent him on his way.

Nobody stamped his passport!

Now, after waiting for 2 weeks for a SS card and the permanent resident card, we get a f**cked-up letter in the mail from the USCIS service center in Texas stating that the POE failed to stamp the passport (duh) and in order to receive a green card we must send proof of a POE stamp. Did you read that? They are asking us for proof of something that they failed to provide. The letter literally contradicts itself within one paragraph.

Anybody else have this issue? We are thinking of going to Congressman's office tomorrow to see what can be done.

Any advice or theories about this would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Amanda
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2006-11-13 19:29:00
Middle East and North AfricaWhat are the required documents to marry in Morocco?

I am planning to travel to Morocco this summer and wed my fiancée
God willing. Since many of you have gone through this, can you help? We are hoping to have our ‘aqd over there. What are some of the documents Moroccan authorities require for US citizens to have?
I heard that Moroccan Authorities require celibacy “of being Single” and birth certificates. Where can I obtain the celibacy certificate for example? Also how long should I alot to this process when I go to Morocco.
Many thanks guys



I recently went through the process and I will share my experience.

First off, and most importantly, ignore the guide on the Casablanca consular website -- it is outdated.

The marriage certificate in Morocco is an Islamic one and so requires more than you might expect. To make it easier, I suggest doing the marriage in Casa or Rabat -- these people have seen mixed marriages and know how to help you. We married in Beni Mellal -- a mid-sized city. The officials were corrupt, clueless and harrassing. It took us about 3 months to get everything together and go through the maze of red tape and gathering inane stamps and signatures -- Moroccans love stamps! But we were both contending with full-time jobs. If you can, I suggest both of you taking time off and making the marriage your "job." If you are devoting yourselves full-time I think you can finish it in a few weeks to a month.

First thing - Go to the consular in Casa and get a "Affadavit of Eligibility to Marry." If you have been divorced before you will need to show proof of that. They will notarize the document there.

Then, have your fiance go to the local office where you will marry and compile a list of what they want (this will vary -- I swear -- on region). We had to compile the following:

1.) Original birth certificates
2.) Police record from the states, notarized
3.) Resident card and passport
4.) Statement of Religion (it is officially illegal for a Moroccan man to marry anyone but a "person of the book" - Muslim, Jewish or Christian (I just made a stament that I am a Christian and signed it, then legalized it)
5.) Police record for me from Department of Justice from Rabat
6.) Affadavit signed by Ministry of the Exterior and stamped
7.) Certificate of residence (I live in Morocco)
8.) Attestation of work from my job (again because I live here, if you do not work, shouldn't be a problem)
9.) Doctor's note (for both of us) saying free of communicable diseases
10.) Documents from local police stating we had the power to marry (this included that we were both virgins, I am not pregnant and we have commited no crimes, etc -- very humiliating but silly, too)
*Everything was legalized with stamps and we made multiple copies (everyone you encounter will want a legalized copy)

We took all these papers to a local marriage judge -- he grilled us about our relationship -- why do we want to marry, have we slept together, how much money do we make, etc. We grinned and bore it, saying everything he wanted to hear. After this, there was a lot of waiting (a week) while the papers were passed around the courts. The important thing is to get the judge to sign off on them so you can take everything to an ADOUL (a traditional Moroccan notary/judge responsible for actually writing the marriage certificate). You will be issued something called a "mixed marriage certificate." All these stages incur various (small) fees and don't forget you might feel a need to bribe every once in a while -- everything here runs on bribes.

With the new Mudawanna women have many more rights concerning marriage. You do not need a male relative to give you away. My certificate states that I gave myself away. The ADOUL will ask you if you received a dowry and how much it was (another Islamic code) - we just made up a number. You might want to discuss this with your spouse beforehand -- something must be written for a dowry.

You will need:

1.) Patience
2.) Good-heeled walking shoes
3.) sense of humor

My husband and I joke that as insane as the process was -- it must be a way to weed out the marriage light-weights and non-compatibles as it is just an endurance test for couples. It was very stressful for us, but in the end, it made us stronger. ("Honey, remember when the judge asked me if I was a virgin and I almost lost it?")

If you are planning on a direct file -- getting married here makes things a lot faster.

GOOD LUCK!
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2006-06-25 22:52:00
Middle East and North AfricaMisconceptions and Sterotypes WHAT DO YOU THINK

My point is that it matters little what is implicit in the religion because, you're right, it does depend on the person. The spouse may remain a Christian or Jew until death, but they may also be divorced because of it.

This is exactly what I mean. It would be unfair for someone to think that Islam expects covnersions as the previous post (that I was originally replying to) suggested.

BTW, Islam is a proselytizing faith. We do seek reverts through a process called "dawah" and we do have missionaries. Between the three Abrahamic faiths, only Judaism isn't proselytizing.

I know this. But if you read my post, I say that one thing I like about Islam is that it does not *aggressively missionize* in the way that other religions do. I am saying nothing more or less than just that.

I apologize in advance if anyone finds my posts to be offensive. It's in me as a Muslim to correct what I see as misconceptions, especially now when Islam and Muslims are either demonized or romanticized. They are not new or exotic to me. If there is anything I have known and loved all of my life it is my religion and my brothers and sisters in faith, be they Muslim, Christian or Jew. I hope for a better understanding between us, insha'allah.


As a Muslim you are a wealth of information, but do not forget the scores of other non-Muslims who have lived and worked in Muslim countries and have racked up a little knowledge in the process. We have seen that people have very different experiences -- and it is important to remember that not all Muslims are the same and we cannot assume that all Muslim countries are the same, nor the people in them. In essence, I am just saying allow other people their opinions and viewpoints, too. They are just as valid as yours.

BTW, Islam is a proselytizing faith. We do seek reverts through a process called "dawah" and we do have missionaries. Between the three Abrahamic faiths, only Judaism isn't proselytizing.


I apologize in advance if anyone finds my posts to be offensive. It's in me as a Muslim to correct what I see as misconceptions, especially now when Islam and Muslims are either demonized or romanticized. They are not new or exotic to me. If there is anything I have known and loved all of my life it is my religion and my brothers and sisters in faith, be they Muslim, Christian or Jew. I hope for a better understanding between us, insha'allah.




I know that Islam is a proselytizing religion. But if you read my post, I say that one thing I like about Islam is that it does not *aggressively missionize* in the way that other religions do. I am saying nothing more or less than just that.

As a Muslim you are a wealth of information, but do not forget the scores of other non-Muslims who have lived and worked in Muslim countries and have racked up a little knowledge in the process. We have seen that people have very different experiences -- and it is important to remember that not all Muslims are the same and we cannot assume that all Muslim countries are the same, nor the people in them. In essence, I am just saying allow other people their opinions and viewpoints, too. They are just as valid as yours.
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2006-06-30 11:45:00
Middle East and North AfricaMisconceptions and Sterotypes WHAT DO YOU THINK

Well, yes and no. I would say that "expect" is not quite the correct term. They are not to be forced to convert, but, if the Muslim spouse is practicing, there will be an expectation that the non-Muslim spouse will eventually convert. This is especially so if the Muslim husband/non-Muslim wife live in a predominately Muslim country. The husband is seen to be the head of the household, and even in moderate Msulim countries, honor is king. A man who cannot convert his wife is deemed to be an ineffective leader.

I can't tell you how many times I have seen mixed faith couples marry with the intent to allow the wife to remain non-Muslim . . . until children become an issue. Then things really change. One Moroccan friend of mine married a non-Muslim girl a couple of years ago. He drank, smoked, partied and did not pray. Transfer him to the US, and when he doesn't have the trappings of being culturally Muslim, now he prays, has a beard, and refuses to have children with his wife unless and until she converts.

The expectation may be there, only unspoken until . . .

My point is that this is not implicit in the religion - pressuring someone or expecting someone to convert after marriage. This goes for a practicing or a non-practicing Muslim. Of course there are a countless examples on all sides but this does not a rule make. It really does depend on the person.
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2006-06-30 09:41:00
Middle East and North AfricaMisconceptions and Sterotypes WHAT DO YOU THINK


There are some things that make me wonder though. I suppose you could call them stereotypes. I wonder why so many Muslim men seek out non-Muslim women. I also wonder why so many favor blondes. I'm an Arab Muslim woman raised in a traditional Arab Muslim family, although I have not been so traditional in my life. We are told that we are not allowed to marry non-Muslim men, and no Muslim man is allowed to marry a woman who is not a chaste Christian or Jew. Yet, you will find few who hold Muslim men to this rule, but nearly all want to hold Muslim women to the rules they make for them. It makes us wonder why our men want to abandon us, but condemn us if we do as they do. It's something to think about.


I dont know if this has been answered. but, really the reason why a "We are told that we are not allowed to marry non-Muslim men, "

is the religion is transfer from MAN to WOMAN. unless the man converts. which is what Brother dean has done. :thumbs: but, a non muslim woman can marry a muslim man. but, at some point she is expected to convert- I think this should never be forced upon anyone! :thumbs: just my 2 cents..


FYI -- a non-Muslim woman is not expected to convert after marriage. She can remain a Christian or Jew until death. Islam is not a religion of coercion and any Muslim who pressures the religion on the spouse should be reminded of that. I am not a Muslim but one thing I love about it is the focus on being a good example for others instead of the aggressive missionizing of other religions.
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2006-06-29 20:14:00
Middle East and North AfricaHappy Casa Consulate stories


:help: Anyone have one? I'm new here and I need to hear some, plz :help:


I've had a good experience there -- very nice and helpful. But I am doing DCF, and maybe the face-to-face helps. ??


I want to take back everything I wrote above. I went there today just to get the I-864 notarized and ask a few questions and was shocked at how I was treated. The vice-consul Cody Taylor was super condescending and rude and argumentative -- treated me like a child. I was perfectly polite to her and asked very simple questions bracketed by apologies and gratitude. It was bizarre. She must be a very unhappy person. Probably not good for me to use her actual name but somehow it makes me feel better. I left the Consulate in tears.

The Moroccan staff there are stellar and so helpful -- I stick by that.
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2006-07-13 09:16:00
Middle East and North AfricaHappy Casa Consulate stories

:help: Anyone have one? I'm new here and I need to hear some, plz :help:


I've had a good experience there -- very nice and helpful. But I am doing DCF, and maybe the face-to-face helps. ??
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2006-07-12 17:02:00
Middle East and North AfricaThe Saga Continues.....

I guess we just disagree on that. Which is not a problem for me.


I'm with you on this. And disagreeing is fine. There is diversity here. Some Muslims, some Christians, some Jews, maybe some Buddhists, agnostics, who knows... I think mutual respect is key and that means knowing when to stop the religion debate. :P The common thing that binds us all is our "visa journey" not our religion/spirituality/upbringing, etc. Diversity is an asset!

Kerewin, just want to show my support for what you wrote above.

Amanda


Who is teaching people that religion isn't about right and wrong? It's certainly not about if it feels good, do it.

Sorry, folks, if I agree with anything Layla said, it's that we can't just make up the rules as we go along. Islam is more than rules, it's about living a beautiful life with God at your back, but it's hard to do that if you don't believe it has limits that require a belief in right of wrong.

[9.71] The Believers, men and women, are protectors one of another: they enjoin what is just, and forbid what is evil

He said it, not I.



She did not say it is about no rights and wrongs in religion and certainly not about "if it feels good do it". What she means I understand clearly. It's about human perceptions. No 2 humans perceive ANYTHING in the same manner and this is the beauty of our creation. The act of perceiving and the judgements that follow it are based on experience, and although we can share similar experiences, they will not add up to processing the information in the same manner. This does not in any way undermine religion. The "Word of Allah/God" is ultimate, but human perception being unique allows each of us to hear it with a different voice.

Like the analogy of a group of people standing around a lovely odd-shaped stone... each person sees this stone from a unique angle, seeing different colors, shapes, and plays of light then the person standing next to him. They are, however, all perceiving the very same stone. The fact of the stone's existence does not change.

Of course that's a simple metaphor. This is what she meant by no right or wrong. If someone is perceiving, interpreting religion in a manner that is offensive... that is between him/her and Allah/God. If they are giving what is perceived as misinformation, that is also not only between him/her and Allah/God but also the responsibility of the receiver to discern. To be blunt, if a person wants to be spoon fed they will almost always be misled anyway.

We may walk the same religion, follow the same rules, but I can assure that we all experience all things in life uniquely. As the old saying goes... "no perception is invalid."


Amen to this, too.
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2006-07-18 21:25:00
Middle East and North AfricaThe Saga Continues.....

As husband of my wife I must say this


man fata beghir elm fal yataboua makadah men alnar which means
those people who give fatwa which is wrong to make people doubt,he or she will go to hell


Wow, I am having flashbacks of middle Tennessee (where I grew up) Church of Christ folk who told us we would go to hell for listening to music or wearing shorts or chewing gum.

Aren't we adults here? Where is the tolerance?

Tolerance, sweet non-judgemental tolerance!
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2006-07-17 20:45:00
Middle East and North AfricaThe Saga Continues.....
[quote name='babybunny' date='Jul 17 2006, 02:52 PM' post='314937']
[/quote]

It is getting ridiculous, but I must thank SZSZ -- I am learning A LOT and I respect her knowledge. Converts that I meet in Morocco (generally American women) seem to think they can do they Islamic marriage too -- outside of the court -- one (dubious) friend of mine calls this "the sex paper" --
Amanda
[/quote]


dayum what the hell? :angry:

now many agree with this #######?
there are some mean ladies on this thread - dayum... :angry:
[/quote]

Please PLEASE do not take offense to this. It is not in reference to any of you here on VJ but to desperate couples here (as in here in Morocco). Dating is not really allowed here in Morocco - those who do it, do it on the sly under the radar of watchful parents (that is, if you are a young woman, young men are expected to sleep around) -- so marriage is a way out of that and into a legalized arrangement. That is why when I encounter a man who seems attracted to me his first question is not "Want to go get a coffee?" but "Want to marry me?" Marriage really is more equated with sex rather than partnership. This is not the truth everwhere, but the general truth as I see it (and please remember I have lived 2 years in the Moroccan bled -- the countryside as opposed to a big city so I am afraid my knowledge comes from the more traditional culture of the "bled" -- urban Moroccans would be in a different boat, sometimes).

Recently a Moroccan newspaper did a survey -- it was bizarre -- asking how many Moroccan citizens were in favor of marriage. I think the result was something like 99.9% . And of course! Marriage is not such an option like it is the states -- and I am sorry to focus on sex, but in a place where sex is officially forbidden (but widespead -- Moroccan prostitutes are soooo common) marriage is seen as connected with sex, whereas in the American cultural upbringing, marriage tends to focus on partnership.

Again, take no offense, I was reporting what a friend said and if you lived here, you might understand why.
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2006-07-17 18:48:00
Middle East and North AfricaThe Saga Continues.....

It really is a shame that Goldenheart's plight has turned into an islamic debate b/t 2 members :(

Can we just close this issue now and agree that you both disagree and just be here for a sister in need?
I know some of the posts were aimed at helping her discover the issue of the refusal and problems at POE, but this is getting a little ridiculous in my humble little bitty opinion.... just my 87 cents... :whistle:
thanks, and have a lovely day! :star:
NOURA


It is getting ridiculous, but I must thank SZSZ -- I am learning A LOT and I respect her knowledge. Converts that I meet in Morocco (generally American women) seem to think they can do they Islamic marriage too -- outside of the court -- one (dubious) friend of mine calls this "the sex paper" -- basically legalized sex necessary in a culture that tries to enforce celibacy (but fails! look at the Moroccan prostitutes!). I am NOT trying to add any fuel to to fire, just to re-iterate that this really is an issue for people marrying across cultures, especially with misleading information (benign or not).

I should add that some of my (professional, adult) Moroccan students in my classes here in Rabat do not even know the difference and debate this in much the same way.

Amanda
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2006-07-17 10:05:00
Middle East and North AfricaTakalaamal deen

I think it would be nice to share books that we have enjoyed about Islam.



Two DVDs that my husband and I have watched together are Islam: Empire of Faith and Muhammad: Legacy of a Prophet. I recommend both and they are available through Netflix!

Rebecca

Was one of those the PBS-made documentary about Muhammed? I thought it was wonderful and a great introduction to us non-Muslims wanting to know more about the faith and the man. I gave it to my family to better understand my husband and the religion of the country I live in. I especially like that it interviews Muslim, Christian and Jewish scholars and interviews different American Muslims.

Books: I have to say I am working my way through all of Fatima Mernessi (wonderful Moroccan feminist). I also like _Islam, the Straight Path_ (Esposito?) and _Islam from Within_ (forgot author). I admit I come to Islam from a religious studies background, so I tend to look for the exegesis-type works.

Amanda
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2006-07-20 20:08:00
Middle East and North AfricaNew Arabic word game

Ana astami3 ila radio mazaj. Wa antum?

I am listening to Radio Mazaj. And you?


Ana 3yana bizef 3la 9ash ana hamla, walaykin far7ana! (Moroccan dialect, guess what it means)
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2006-07-28 16:19:00
Middle East and North AfricaDocuments needed 4 getting married in Morocco


Welcome to VJ, Talat, from a fellow Michigander :D

I'm assuming you're asking what do you need for the marriage in Morocco, correct?

http://casablanca.us...quirements.html

Hope this helps.

Thanks for your reply. I have seen that link. My question is specific to how i get following documents:
* Criminal record (I am glad i don't have any... so where i go and get a letter that i don't have any).
* Police Report (How do i get this)
* Affidavit of nationality and marriage (issued from the cnsulate of US in Casablanca). A sample text this affidavit? Do i take a typewriiten statement 2 Casa Consulate or they will preapare one at their office.
* Certificate of religion... I can get it from local islamic ecnter. But is there any speific text or sample?
By the way, do you know how long the K3 is talking?

My attorney got me answers for '* Certificate of Nationality & * Certificate of Residence'. She just confirmed with the local Adoul that 'Affidavit of nationality and marriage (issued from the cnsulate of US in Casablanca)' will satify the requirement for those two documents.

Wish u best of luck.



Hi, I recently got married in Morocco. Keep in mind that the list will change depending on where you do the marriage. I recommend doing it in Rabat -- they are more familiar with the "mixed marriage" certificate (this is what they call it). Also wear good shoes and practice the art of patience! Even when you think you have it all done someone somewhere will request something new just for the hell of it. Moroccans love stamps so be sure eveything is properly legalized and stamped. Make multiple copies of everything just in case.

First step - get the affadavit of eligibility of marriage. You do not need to type something up ahead of time, just go to the consulate with your passport and request the paper. You will swear and sign something and then it will be notarized -- you will pay about 300 dirhams for that. Yake this paper to the Ministry of Exterior for stamps.

DO NOT pay attention to what it says in the consulate website -- this is inaccurate. Only pay attention to what it says about GETTING the affadavit.

Criminal record and police record -- one and the same. This needs to come from your hometown justice center/police dept. saying you are crime-free (on official paper), then signed and notarized (remember: Moroccans LOVE stamps!)

Statement of religion -- write something out in Fench and Arabic saying you are a Muslim and have it legalized and stamped. They may ask you for more from an authority -- but this is a start.

Are you doing DCF or K-3? I recommend DCF if possible. We got the visa in exactly one month. It does mean you need to stick around Morocco for a while but it is quite fast.

Oh, you will also need a note from a doctor saying you have no contagious diseases and are fit for marriage.

You will be interrogated by police about virginity and honor and your religion. The court judge will also ask intimidating questions. Be prepared to offer bribes if you are not doing this in Casa or Rabat. If you do it in those places, your experience will be easier than ours! (we did it in Beni Mellal)

Good luck! And send me a private PM if you need any more info

Amanda
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2006-08-09 16:13:00
Middle East and North AfricaQuick question for the Women

My husband and I were just talking on the phone about when we want to start trying to get pregnant. Since I am on the Pill right now, he thinks that if I were to go off of it now I wont get pregnant for a year. I was under the impression that it could be about a month til the meds were out of your system. Does anyone know about this?


I missed 2 pills and got pregnant. The lesson: fertility can resume IMMEDIATELY.
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2006-08-25 22:29:00
Middle East and North AfricaResidency Rquirements in Morocco

Does anyone know how to meet requirements for and/or get a residency permit in Morocco. Ahmed and I are thinking of going for a DCF and they seem to have a 6-month residency requirement before filing. Has anyone else tried for DCF in Morocco? Any advice is appreciated. :)


I did DCF in Morocco and it is fast. It took us exactly one month from application for visa to visa-in-hand. There is a lot less doubt cast on the relationship (they can meet you both in person which helps) and everything is handled in Casablanca - directly.

I had lived in Morocco for 3 years with a carte de sejour. I will tell you what I know. You need a carte de sejour first -- to get this you need some sort of reason - a job with attestation or some other reason - study, etc. Once you are married to your guy I think you can just get a carte that states that you have no job. Be aware that this might make them a little more suspicious. They want to see that you have a life outside of the man and vice versa.

Having said that, I do know people in Morocco now - American woman/Moroccan man duos where the woman came from the states specifically to marry and then get the DCF. They seem to be doing great. Just be prepared for lots of questions, especially if you 1.) are older than the guy, 2.) met on the internet initially or 3.) don't have a true common language. (I know that sounds crazy but you should have SEEN the couples we saw in Casablanca - some of them could not even speak to each other)....

If you need anymore info, send me a PM and I will be glad to tell you more about our process.

many salams,
Amanda
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2006-08-31 13:16:00
Middle East and North AfricaCurrency Exchnage in Morocco

Hi All,
I am going to Casablanca this week. We are planning to get married as a first step for K3 process. My question is:
How do i exchnage US $ to Moroccan Dirhams? I am staying in an Apartment callled 'Casa Sweet Homes' and they don't have Currency Exchnage counters as all big hotels do. What is advisable way?

1. Take US $ with me and exchange over there?

2. Take Moroccan DH from US? Is there any limit Morocco has? I am planning equivalent to $5,000 to take with me to pay where credit cards don't work.

3. Take Traveller Checks and get them cashed over there?


How could i get better exchange rate? I called one of the hotels and almost fainted when the guy told me 1 US $ = 6 MAD.... where the regular rate is 1 US = 8.64 MAD.


Any one has experience with Car rental there? Is it better to get Car with driver as most of them locally do?


Thanks.

Regards,
Talat


DON'T TAKE TRAVELERS CHECKS! That is just waaaaay too much of a pain -- some banks with charge a fee, you cannot actually spend them anywhere and some banks will refuse them outright without believing that they are legitimate. Save yourself the trouble. Bring some cash and exchange it at a Bank Populaire or BMCE or another big bank. The exchange rate is ok. Just don't do any non-bank exhanges.

Use your ATM card for more cash. Check with your bank to see how much thye are going to charge you for each withdrawal. It may not be worth it to withdrawal very much, or very often. Also, keep in mind that the ATMs will put a cap on how much you can take out per week (often 2,000 dirhams). And as was mentioned before, if the ATM hasn't been serviced or is just acting strangely it might take your card and rip it up.

Bottom line -- if you are just going to be in the country for a few months -- bring some cash and exchange it all.
Morocco is cheap anyway. :)

Good luck! (and mar7aba f lmghrib!!)

Amanda
deeshlaNot TellingMorocco2006-09-05 16:34:00