Navigating Coffee Culture An Expats Guide to Western Sahara
Welcome expats to the rich tapestry of coffee culture in Western Sahara. Whether you're fresh off the boat or have been living in this exciting country for a while, there's always something new to discover and appreciate about the local coffee scene. In this guide, we offer insights and tips for navigating the local coffee scene, including understanding coffee origins and production, embracing favorite coffee style drinks, and learning about coffee drinking customs and traditions.
Understanding Coffee Origins and Production
Western Sahara is a land rich in coffee history and traditions. Coffee is grown in several regions, such as Auserd, Dakhla, and Smara. Locals prefer using Arabica and Robusta beans grown in the local soil which results in unique flavors and aromas. Visitors can tour local coffee plantations and farms to learn about coffee cultivation and production methods. Some notable coffee estates for expats include Café del Desierto in Smara and Tropic coffee in Laayoune.
Embracing Favorite Coffee Style Drinks
Western Sahara's coffee culture is diverse, and it's essential to know the coffee style drinks that locals enjoy to fully immerse yourself in the coffee scene. Some traditional brews enjoyed by locals include m strongest coffee in the market, caffe mehchich, which is prepared by boiling green coffee beans in water resulting in a strong aroma and powerful taste. The traditional coffee is often served in small cups called ribbali, and it's a must-try for newcomers.
Coffee Drinking Customs and Traditions
Coffee has an important role in daily life and social interactions in Western Sahara. The coffee drinking customs and traditions in Western Sahara are deeply ingrained in the culture, and it's essential to understand and respect them when enjoying coffee in social settings. For example, in order to show respect, it's customary to take a small sip from the cup with one's right hand before passing the cup to the next person. It's also common for locals to sit and enjoy coffee for extended periods, sometimes even several hours, as part of social gatherings or business meetings.
Embracing Coffee Culture as an Expat in Western Sahara
Coffee is a universal language that blurs the cultural divide, making it an excellent way for expats to connect with local communities. When experiencing coffee culture in Western Sahara, it's essential to adapt to local tastes and preferences to fully immerse yourself in the culture. Some recommended expat-friendly coffee shops and cultural experiences include:
- Le Petit Café in Laayoune - A lovely cozy café that serves both traditional and Western-style coffee drinks. It's a great place for expats to learn more about coffee culture and relax while enjoying their beverage of choice.
- The coffee tasting workshop held by the National Coffee Commission in Smara - This workshop is an excellent opportunity for expats to learn about coffee production, flavor profiles, and traditional brewing methods while interacting with local coffee farmers and professionals.
In conclusion, Western Sahara's coffee culture is rich, diverse, and fascinating. Expats are encouraged to embrace the vibrant coffee culture as a gateway to connecting with local communities and experiencing authentic cultural experiences. Remember, it's essential to respect local coffee customs and traditions and to adapt to the local taste preferences. Enjoy your coffee adventure in Western Sahara, and don't forget to take small sips.