Morocco has historically conjured up images of ancient walled cities, desert-crossing camel caravans, Arab sultans, Berber tribesmen, and mud-walled kasbahs shaded by tall date palms. The good news is that the Morocco of today can still deliver this, plus much more. Independent since only 1956, this is a youthful country in more ways than one. The largely under-40 population is being led into a complicated 21st century by a young king, Mohammed VI, intent on retaining Morocco's diversity and traditional customs while encouraging tourism as a major form of economic development. Morocco is filled with unforgettable travel experiences, and somewhere along the journey it will surely test your sense of patience and good nature.