Lasting First Impressions

 When I started my BA Islamic and Arabic Studies at Utrecht University, it was clear to me from the beginning that I wanted to spend time abroad. Not only because traveling is the best thing in the world, but more importantly, because submersion is the only way to get a handle on any new language.

Out of the comfort zone

Much of the Arab world is embroiled in turmoil, somewhat limiting the options available, but still there was a choice to be made between a semester in Cairo (Egypt) and a semester in Rabat (Morocco). I decided on the latter for several reasons, amongst them my preference for both the Maghreb and the local dialect Darija, but I suppose it ultimately comes down to a gut feeling. Second thing that needed some reflection was whether to rent a private studio or to stay with a local family. Again I decided on the latter, for the simple reason that I wanted as much exposure to the language and culture as possible. Of course it is somewhat of a calculated risk to move in with a bunch of strangers, but it is definitely worth giving it a go, if only to get out of your own comfort zone. I knew I had lucked out when I was welcomed by a wonderfully straightforward woman, who sat me down at the kitchen table, poured me a glass of sweet mint tea and offered me freshly baked cookies. I returned the favor with 'stroopwafels' and chocolate easter eggs, which seemed to please my host.

A Mediterranean city

The next day her daughters took me on a tour of the immediate area and the medina, where their father runs a shop. Moroccan hospitality goes primarily through the stomach and I fear I will have to be rolled downhill towards Holland at the end of my stay here, but it is one of the things that I have enjoyed most so far. Rabat is a very pleasant city and thanks to Google Maps, which works even without an Internet connection, I have been able to easily find my way around from day one. The city has an almost Mediterranean feel to it, with its wide boulevards, boulangeries on every corner, the sea never far away and Bougainvillea growing everywhere.

A home away from home

On Monday, having arrived on Saturday, we had our first introduction at the new NIMAR institute with a beautiful location and again a very warm welcome, followed by a lovely lunch with all students and staff. I must remind myself that I have come here to study, so far it has felt more like a vacation, a home away from home. The program seems challenging, but also varied and interspersed with excursions, so I am sure I will never be too far away from this pleasant sense of wonder.