Morocco Overview
From the chaotic marketplace in the Medina of Marrakech to the peaceful bliss of the High Atlas mountains overlooking the endless, rolling dunes of the Sahara Desert, Morocco is an absolutely beautiful (and affordable) country that has something special to offer for every kind of traveler.
Language Barrier: The official language is Arabic. Secondary languages include Berber, French and Spanish (in the northern towns). English is usually understood in the larger cities especially by those in industries that interact with foreigners, though French (regardless of level) would be a valuable skill to develop or refine before arrival. I found it difficult to communicate in English in more remote areas, and relied on smiles and charades, which worked all the same.
Exchange Rate Information:
1 Beer: If you can find one here, it is usually 12 Dirhams
1 Night at a Hostel/Riad: 80-100 Dirhams
1 Meal: 20-30 Dirhams
1 Liter of Water: 5 Dirhams
Cities Visited: Marrakech, Aït Benhaddou, Fes, Casablanca, Chefchaouen, Taghazout, Rabat, Tangier, Tétouen, Agadir
My Favorite Moroccan Experiences:
- Visiting an Authentic Hammam in Chefchaouen
- Exploring the Medinas in Marrakech and Rabat
- Soaking up the sun and watching surfers in Taghazout
- Taste Testing my Way around Marrakech
- Riding Camels and Sleeping Under the Stars in the Sahara Desert
Transportation Information to Consider:
Transportation between major cities is easily available, but sometimes lengthy and difficult. Trains between the major cities are a reliable, affordable, and comfortable way to travel around Morocco. The ONCF website is accurate and although available in only French and Arabic, it is easy to navigate. I used it to look up train times, then would purchase my ticket from the counter at the train station.
For cities where train travel is not available, the information can be a bit more difficult to acquire, though buses are readily available. I usually would inquire at my hostel or riad (traditional Moroccan house, or guesthouse) for more information.
The main airports into the country are Casablanca (CMN) and Marrakech (RAK). If you're planning a long weekend or a quick trip, I would recommend Marrakech. Casa, as it's called by locals, is a great hub to reach Rabat or Agadir by train, but in my opinion has much less to offer a traveler with an abbreviated schedule.
UGH! Moments:
Being a solo female traveler in Morocco has its moments of frustration.
If you don't look Moroccan (and let me assure you, I don't) there may be a level of attention garnered that is different from back home. Regardless of the level of makeup or type of clothing, the attention comes full force. Being constantly cat-called and approached in "that" way by males can be unsettling and sometimes frustrating. Although some locals will shamelessly shout "Beautiful lady, I love you!" (generally followed by extreme giggling by their friends), I have never felt threatened, and usually find humor, in such situations. My suggestion: laugh it off and relax. Usually it is harmless, and the guilty party is just trying to get a smile or laugh out of you. If there is a more aggressive suitor, a simple "Please stop" should suffice. Make sure you respect local customs and tradition to avoid unnecessary attention. Dressing in a conservative manner (no shorts, tank tops, etc.) usually keeps the majority of this attention at bay.
As in many countries where tourists can be identified by their appearance, many times prices are subject to the inquisitor. This is very different for travelers coming from countries where the listed price is final. This can be frustrating when a snack may cost me 30 dirhams, which would be 10 for a local. The difference is not always budget-breaking, but it can be frustrating nonetheless. My suggestion: if possible, ask a local before purchasing - from souvenirs to taxi rides. A local helped me to purchase bus tickets for me and my friends, and the price was 1/3 of what were initially told!
