Muslims are very sensitive about their religion. Be careful what you say, even in serious conversation.

It's not advisable to make jokes about any aspect of Islam. Avoid mentioning the life and status of the Prophet Mohammed, as this is a taboo subject. And criticism of the prophet is taken very seriously.

Moroccans are very much aware of, and justifiably upset by the misconceptions about Islam in the west. They?ll be quick to point out that Moroccan Women are not treated as second-class citizens; thieves don't get their hands chopped off and Homosexuals don't get stoned to death. And more importantly, not every Muslim is a fanatical suicide bomber or a supporter of Osama Bin Laden.

Ever since September 11, 20001, Muslims feel their religion is being persecuted in the western media. Although only a few people were responsible for the attacks, they believe that the other 1.2 billion Muslims around the globe are being held responsible.

The west does have a tendency to mention what are essentially separate issues in one breath when it comes to Muslims. For example; Iraq, the debate about headscarves in French schools; the role of women in Arabic societies and the problems with second-generation immigrants in Europe.

Whether it's true or not, Moroccans see increasing prejudice, discrimination and contempt for their religious and cultural values. Give them a chance to air this and you'll be in for a long and angry debate (or monologue).