Tips for Traveling in Morocco

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Traveling in Morocco can be overwhelming at first. There is chaos everywhere in the city and you find yourself tempted to rely on the kindness of strangers. However, you have to be aware of scams. People will always find a way to make some money off of you, so traveling to Morocco may be daunting at first. But once you are there and get a hang of things, you will fall in love with the country.

Try to avoid getting lost in Morocco. I know its practically impossible, but the less lost you look, the less trouble you run into. People will find a way to "help" you and either guide you in the right direction or bring you to a shop. Either way they expect you to give them money. Instead, try to figure it out on your own or be prepared to pay a bit. The Moroccans are very persistent! Also, there are some areas where they will yet at you and to go somewhere else. They try to keep you in the tourist part of the city. Don't be intimidated by them, but also, sometimes listen to them. 

English is used in Morocco but their French is perfect. It may help to speak some French because generally, the prices are cheaper and the service is nicer. It makes bartering easier too. So if you took French in high school, maybe it is time to brush up on it. 

The main way to do anything in Morocco is through bartering. The key is to drive a good deal without insulting the people. They will usually give you some ridiculous price and it is up to you to convince them. Usually people will walk away and then they will change their mind and sell it to you at a lower price. If not, say you only have so much left and that is all you will spend. This will either make or break the deal. Some people find it fun, I find it stressful. But it is a great way to see the city on a budget. 

Walking by rug stores or other places, people will offer you a free tour. But usually they are trying to get a business. They are really good at convincing you to buy something. Really good! So avoid the situation by turning down the second it is offered. Even tours that you pay for will usually bring you to a friend's shop where they try to make a sale. Just avoid these at all costs unless you want to ship home a huge rug. 

While Morocco is much more liberal than the other countries, dressing appropriately does help in avoiding unwanted stares or attention. You're more likely to get scammed if it looks like you're going to the bars. People also treat you with more respect as well. So look up the customs for people dressing in the area that you are visiting and try to do your best to respect that. Sometimes, it feels impossible in the heat though!

All the monkeys and the snake charmers are so interesting, and usually people just want to take a picture. However, those pictures are not free. Instead, don't take pictures, and stand back, because usually they will put the monkey or snake on you if you get too close to encourage you to take a picture. From there they will charge you for that picture. So just avoid that situation all together and don't even take out your phone or camera.