Seminars and Panel Discussions on the Cultural and Historical Parallels Between Morocco and Moorish Andalusia (Spain) with Dr. Robin HardyJune 17 to June 30, 2025
Dr. Robin Hardy
Director, Modern Africa | Modern Europe
Aramfo Educational Foundation
RHardy@aramfo.org
Overview
Introduction to the Cultural Journey: Morocco and Moorish Andalusia
Embark on a two-week immersive journey that delves into the rich cultural and historical tapestry of Morocco and Moorish Andalusia. This exclusive program is designed for professors and scholars eager to explore the enduring connections and distinct contrasts between these two fascinating regions.
Your adventure begins in the vibrant city of Casablanca, Morocco's economic and cultural heart. From there, you will travel to the ancient city of Fes, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and thriving intellectual traditions. Next, the journey takes you to Meknes, where the echoes of its imperial past resonate through its grand gates and palaces. Continuing north, you will experience the picturesque beauty of Chefchaouen, the Blue City nestled in the Rif Mountains, before heading to the bustling port city of Tangier, a crossroads of cultures with a captivating blend of African and European influences.
The adventure doesn't stop there. Crossing the Strait of Gibraltar, you will step into the historic cities of Moorish Andalusia, beginning with Malaga, known for its stunning coastal views and rich artistic heritage. The journey then takes you to Granada, home to the magnificent Alhambra Palace, before exploring the timeless beauty of Cordoba, with its iconic Great Mosque. The trip concludes in Seville, where the spirit of Andalusia is vibrantly alive in its flamenco rhythms, historic landmarks, and architectural wonders.
Throughout this journey, you will engage in seminars and panel discussions that delve deep into the cultural and historical parallels between Morocco and Moorish Andalusia. This is more than a trip; it’s an academic exploration that will enrich your understanding of the intertwined legacies of these two regions.
Attending this trip can benefit your university in several ways:
- Enhanced Cross-Cultural Understanding: Professors will gain deep insights into the cultural and historical connections between Morocco and Moorish Andalusia, enriching their teaching and research with firsthand experiences and knowledge. This understanding can be integrated into various disciplines, from history and art to literature and political science.
- Curriculum Development: The experiences and knowledge gained from this trip can directly contribute to the development of new courses or the enhancement of existing ones. Professors can create more engaging and globally relevant curricula that reflect the complex interactions between these two regions.
- Research Opportunities: The trip provides unique opportunities for scholarly research, including access to historical sites, archives, and local experts. Professors can gather primary data and develop new research projects or publications that can contribute to the academic reputation of the university.
- International Collaboration: The trip may open doors to establishing or strengthening academic partnerships with institutions in Morocco and Spain. These collaborations could lead to joint research projects, faculty exchanges, and student study-abroad programs, fostering a more globally connected academic community.
- Professional Development:Participation in this trip can be a significant professional development opportunity for professors, enhancing their expertise and global perspectives. This, in turn, can positively impact their teaching effectiveness, student engagement, and scholarly contributions.
- University Prestige and Visibility: By participating in such a prestigious program, the university can enhance its visibility and prestige in the academic community. This involvement demonstrates a commitment to global education and cultural exchange, which can attract prospective students, faculty, and partnerships.
- Student Engagement: Professors who attend this trip can bring back fresh, relevant experiences that resonate with students, making learning more dynamic and relatable. They can also mentor students interested in these regions, guiding them in research or study-abroad opportunities.
- Alumni Relations and Fundraising: Sharing experiences from this trip with alumni and donors can inspire pride and support for the university's global initiatives. This can lead to increased alumni engagement and potential funding for future international programs.
We look forward to your participation.
Program Itinerary
Initial Itinerary, subject to change*
Day 1 - June 17, 2025:
Depart JFK to Casablanca
Day 2 - June 18, 2025: Casablanca, Morocco
Arrive in Casablanca. Meet and assist at Casablanca airport.
Half-day tour in Casablanca, visiting the Hassan II Mosque.
Drive to Fes (3.5 hours).
Overnight stay at your hotel.
Meals: Welcome dinner in Fes.
Day 3 - June 19, 2025: Casablanca
Full day at the University of Casablanca.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner.
Overnight stay at your hotel.
Day 4 - June 20, 2025: Fes
Early travel to Fes.
Spend a full day in Fes exploring the medina, sampling local cuisine, and visiting the Jewish quarter.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner.
Overnight stay at your hotel.
Day 5 - June 21, 2025: Meknes
Day trip to Meknes and the ruins of Volubilis.
Return to Fes for an overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 6 - June 22, 2025: Fes to Chefchaouen
Early departure to Chefchaouen.
Half-day tour and overnight stay in Tangier.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner.
Day 7 - June 23, 2025: Tangier to Spain
Early ferry to Algeciras, Spain.
Drive to Malaga (1.5 hours).
Overnight stay in Malaga.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner.
Day 8 - June 24, 2025: Malaga
A relaxing day in Malaga.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner.
Overnight stay in Malaga.
Day 9 - June 25, 2025: Granada and Cordoba
Day trip to Cordoba, including a panoramic tour and visit to La Mezquita.
Depart to Granada.
Overnight stay in Granada.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner.
Day 10 - June 26, 2025: Granada
Day tour in Granada, including Alhambra Palace and Generalife Gardens.
Albaizin sunset neighborhood tour.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner.
Overnight stay in Granada.
Day 11 - June 27, 2025: Granada and Orce
Visit Orce to see the new Arche-paleontological discovery.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner.
Overnight stay in Granada.
Day 12 - June 28, 2025: Seville
Depart to Seville.
Visit the pavilions of the 1929 World Fair, Maria Luisa Park, Palacio de San Telmo, Torre del Oro, and more.
Special dance performance at Museo del Baile Flamenco.
Overnight stay in Seville.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner.
Day 13 - June 29, 2025: Seville-Malaga
Continue exploring Seville, including a visit to the Cathedral and Reales Alcazar.
Overnight stay in Malaga.
Meals: Breakfast and Farewell dinner.
Day 14 - June 30, 2025: Departure
Depart from Malaga.
Meals: Breakfast.
*There may exist minor changes in the program timetables and venues due the possible restrictions.
Program Cost Covers:
The Program Cost is $4,700
* Cost assuming double occupancy - $600 per person
The Program Cost is $4,700
This trip can be funded out of pocket or through institutional support. Schools and universities can cover the full cost or offer partial sponsorship for their faculty's participation
ARAMFO Payment Plan Options
We believe that every participant should have the opportunity to travel without financial stress. That’s why we provide flexible payment options designed to accommodate different financial needs.
Payment Plan Options🔹Option 1: Pay in Full at Enrollment (No Fee)✅ Pay the entire balance upfront at the time of enrollment.✔ Accepted Payment Methods: Credit Card, Debit Card, ACH, Personal Checks, and Bank Transfers.
🔹 Option 2: Automatic Payment Plan (No Fee)Set up automatic payments with no additional fees and spread out your balance for easy budgeting. Your full balance is scheduled until 30 days before departure.How It Works:- No registration or plan fee – completely free to join!
- $300 first payment due within 30 days of registration to confirm your spot.
- Flexible payment schedule: Choose monthly or bi-weekly automatic payments based on your preference.
- $1,500 payment must be completed no later than 60 days before departure.
- Final balance must be completed no later than 30 days before departure.
- No penalties for early payments – pay off your balance anytime!
✔ Accepted Payment Methods: Credit Card, Debit Card, ACH, Personal Checks, and Bank Transfers.
🔹 Option 2: Automatic Payment Plan (No Fee)
- No registration or plan fee – completely free to join!
- $300 first payment due within 30 days of registration to confirm your spot.
- Flexible payment schedule: Choose monthly or bi-weekly automatic payments based on your preference.
- $1,500 payment must be completed no later than 60 days before departure.
- Final balance must be completed no later than 30 days before departure.
- No penalties for early payments – pay off your balance anytime!
✔ Accepted Payment Methods: Credit Card, Debit Card, ACH, Personal Checks, and Bank Transfers.
The cost doesn’t cover
Cancellation Policy:
All cancellations must be received in writing. The following cancellation schedule applies:
- 70% of the paid amount refunded between 100 and 91 days prior to departure.
- 60% of the paid amount refunded between 90 and 61 days prior to departure.
- 50% of the paid amount refunded between 60 and 51 days prior to departure.
- No refund within 50 days of the departure date.
