Camel Trekking and Arabic Lessonsby Chris BeauchampCamels!May 14, 2010There is only an hour or two between the previous entry and this one. Since I wrote the last bit, we have eaten the day’s lunch. Rashid prepared and served us what he called “Berber Omelette,” an egg and tomato dish with peppers, onions and the usual spices that was remarkably like Turkish menemen. The camels are nearby, contented from the water we drew from a well right before lunch, and feeding on scraggly shrubs. Rashid is washing the dishes, which generally involves splashing some untreated well-water on everything and sloshing it around a basin. I try not to think that it’s the same basin the camels have drank out of, or that Rashid washed his feet in, or that Laura and I have also used to wash. Desert hygiene is not city hygiene.At least he’s using soap.
Our guide, Rashid, drawing water for himself, the cuisine, cleaning, and the camels. Laura and I stayed to mineral water, mostly. Rashid’s body can handle the microbes, whereas ours are accustomed to completely different ones.
We came across essentially one well per day, which may surprise some, but we were technically on the edge of the desert. Beyond our final destination (Erg Chigaga) there are no wells.
Laura helping fill one of the two 10L gerry cans that got us through.
Shariff (“Sha-reef”), the camel. Shariff is 20, and like his buddy Mimoun, will likely be doing this for ten more years. The nose ring is actually used by the camel guide to lead the animal.Mimoun (“Mee-moon”) the camel. Mimoun is 19 years old, and will likely live to about 30. His job is to walk back and forth in the desert, poor guy.Laura and I are actually feeling spoiled and content on our rug in the shade. The day has already cooled somewhat and soon we’ll be packing up to continue the day’s journey. We haven’t actually ridden the camels yet, as they have been loaded down with our baggage to begin with, but we’re thinking we may this afternoon if the sand is too hot on our sandaled feet. Rashid has said vaguely that we will ride them apres, apres, “after, after.”The afternoon winds are picking up a bit after the calm morning, and if we can expect the same hard winds as we experienced last night at the bivouac, then we will be heading westward into the setting sun and blowing sand, so the afternoon may present its own challenges.I wanted to mention that we have been enjoying some very basic Arabic help (and I mean very basic). Our communications with Rashid now span French, English, and crude Arabic, but we’re able to communicate most things well enough. We also got some primers last night from the other fellows. Unfortunately I only pulled out the notebook part way through, so most of our impromptu Arabic lesson has been lost, strings of foreign syllables that simply don’t stick in my mind. This is all that remains, based on my notes and my memory:La bass = HelloLa = NoChukran = Thank youGh’la = watermelonSchwee-ah, schwee-ah = little, littleSa-ha = CheersBis sa-ha = Bon apetiteSabah-hak-hairh = good morningYella! = Let’s go / Hurry upWa-ha = Okay*Spellings are phonetic interpretations. Try to pronounce each letter. The H’s are somewhat guttural.Okay. Now, just walk to the other side. Simple!morocco culture,moroccan food,morocco food,moroccan cuisine,morocco beaches,moroccan meal,beaches in morocco,moroccan culture,hercules cave,hercules cave morocco
Camel Trekking and Arabic Lessons
Moroccan Womens Clothing
Moroccan Womens Clothing
At Maison De Marrakech, all our clothings are hand-designed and handcrafted. What you get is a one off, fabulous bohemian beautiful women's wear.
We specialise only on Caftans, Tunics and Tunic Dresses, because this is what we design the best.
in Morocco, women traveling alone is generally safe, but there are thing to bear in mind; dress conservatively and specifically means cover shoulders, stomach and keens and avoid fitting clothes, there is no need to cover your head, try to use your common sense for example when dealing with men avoid overdoing eye contact with unkown men probably as Western women would be easier to wear sunglasses then to lower the eyes.
Its considered safe for pregnant, however there are certainthing you should take into account when traveling.
- Don't forget that you should see your doctor who can help if the rsiks of the trip are ok to take and for medical advice before heading off for a trip overseas.
- There are cetain activities that you should completelty avoid while pregnant for example Camel, Horses and ATV riding and Jet Skis.
- Its highlighly recommended to take breaks every two hours while traveling by car for walking around.
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Hijab and its effect on Moroccan women's fashion:
Hijab and its effect on Moroccan women's fashion:
The idea of hijab - to cover or provide privacy - is a central factor in any discussion of Moroccan women's clothing. "In some Arabic-speaking countries and Western countries, the word hijab primarily refers to women's head and body covering, but in Islamic scholarship, hijab is given the wider meaning of modesty, privacy, and morality" (Wikipedia Hijab). Thus being, the essential philosophy behind Moroccan women's clothing is to cover the body with clothing which preserve for the wearer an impression of modesty, piety, and highly reserved sexuality. The Qur'an (24:31) states that:
“And say to the believing women that they cast down their looks and guard their private parts and do not display their ornaments except what appears thereof, and let them wear their head-coverings (khimars) over their bosoms (jaybs), and not display their ornaments except to their husbands, their fathers, their husbands' fathers, their sons, their husbands' sons, their brothers or their brothers' sons, or their sisters' sons, or their women, or the slaves whom their right hands possess, or male servants free of physical needs, or small children who have no sense of the shame of sex . . . "
In practice, hijab means that women must keep the essential forms of their womanhood covered from view with clothing that does not provide much of an indication of the shapes and graces found within when in public or in the company of men that are not of their family. This means that the women of Morocco tend to publicly wear long and loose robes (djellaba), button-up blouses which extend down to the knees or the ankles (kafkan), and headscarves (khimar) which cover most of the hair, the ears and the neck. Young girls in Morocco are except from the practice of hijab until the time of puberty, when they too are required to begin donning the concealing clothing of their mothers.
Although hijab - the wearing of modest clothing - is highly regarded in Morocco it is not compulsory for a woman to dress this way. It is becoming fairly common in Morocco for women to go out in public without wearing headscarves, long sleeves, and in Western style clothing. But for formal occasions, such as weddings or religious festivals, the principles of hijab prevail and women tend to wear traditional style Moroccan clothing (Wikipedia).
Examples of hijab mandated Muslim women's fashions are below:
Various examples of hijab throughout the Muslim World. Photo courtesy of Wikipedia Hijab article.
morocco culture,moroccan food,morocco food,moroccan cuisine,morocco beaches,moroccan meal,beaches in morocco,moroccan culture,hercules cave,hercules cave morocco
The idea of hijab - to cover or provide privacy - is a central factor in any discussion of Moroccan women's clothing. "In some Arabic-speaking countries and Western countries, the word hijab primarily refers to women's head and body covering, but in Islamic scholarship, hijab is given the wider meaning of modesty, privacy, and morality" (Wikipedia Hijab). Thus being, the essential philosophy behind Moroccan women's clothing is to cover the body with clothing which preserve for the wearer an impression of modesty, piety, and highly reserved sexuality. The Qur'an (24:31) states that:
“And say to the believing women that they cast down their looks and guard their private parts and do not display their ornaments except what appears thereof, and let them wear their head-coverings (khimars) over their bosoms (jaybs), and not display their ornaments except to their husbands, their fathers, their husbands' fathers, their sons, their husbands' sons, their brothers or their brothers' sons, or their sisters' sons, or their women, or the slaves whom their right hands possess, or male servants free of physical needs, or small children who have no sense of the shame of sex . . . "
In practice, hijab means that women must keep the essential forms of their womanhood covered from view with clothing that does not provide much of an indication of the shapes and graces found within when in public or in the company of men that are not of their family. This means that the women of Morocco tend to publicly wear long and loose robes (djellaba), button-up blouses which extend down to the knees or the ankles (kafkan), and headscarves (khimar) which cover most of the hair, the ears and the neck. Young girls in Morocco are except from the practice of hijab until the time of puberty, when they too are required to begin donning the concealing clothing of their mothers.
Although hijab - the wearing of modest clothing - is highly regarded in Morocco it is not compulsory for a woman to dress this way. It is becoming fairly common in Morocco for women to go out in public without wearing headscarves, long sleeves, and in Western style clothing. But for formal occasions, such as weddings or religious festivals, the principles of hijab prevail and women tend to wear traditional style Moroccan clothing (Wikipedia).
Examples of hijab mandated Muslim women's fashions are below:
Various examples of hijab throughout the Muslim World. Photo courtesy of Wikipedia Hijab article.
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The Djellaba
The Djellaba of both Moroccan men and women
The base article of clothing that makes up the wardrobe of both Moroccan men and women is the djellaba. This is just a long, loose fitting robe which has a hood attached. The woman's djellaba is usually brightly colored and is ornately stitched with various patterns and/or is beaded. The djellaba generally covers the wearer from head to ankles and, keeping with the principles of hijab, is meant to provide a look of modesty. But the woman's djellaba is becoming adapted to meet with modern fashions and, "are becoming slimmer and shorter" http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Djellaba. The traditional women's djellaba can also be considered a jilbab, "which refers to any long and loose-fit coat or garment worn by some Muslim women.
The djellaba's, "hood is of vital importance for both sexes as it protects the wearer from the sun and in earlier times was used as a defense against sand being blown into the wearers face by strong desert winds. It is not uncommon for the hood to be used as an informal pocket during times of nice weather, and can fit loaves of bread or bags of groceries", The hood of the djellaba, which is called a "cob," is also what distinctly defines it from the kaftan, which is simply a button-down cloak that extends to the ankles or, in modern cases, the knees of the wearer that does not have an attached hood.
Examples of the Moroccan woman's djellaba are below:
Another photo of women in a market in Casablanca wearing the traditional Moroccan djellaba robe.
An example of a Moroccan woman's djellaba. Notice the hood at the back of the garment.
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The base article of clothing that makes up the wardrobe of both Moroccan men and women is the djellaba. This is just a long, loose fitting robe which has a hood attached. The woman's djellaba is usually brightly colored and is ornately stitched with various patterns and/or is beaded. The djellaba generally covers the wearer from head to ankles and, keeping with the principles of hijab, is meant to provide a look of modesty. But the woman's djellaba is becoming adapted to meet with modern fashions and, "are becoming slimmer and shorter" http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Djellaba. The traditional women's djellaba can also be considered a jilbab, "which refers to any long and loose-fit coat or garment worn by some Muslim women.
The djellaba's, "hood is of vital importance for both sexes as it protects the wearer from the sun and in earlier times was used as a defense against sand being blown into the wearers face by strong desert winds. It is not uncommon for the hood to be used as an informal pocket during times of nice weather, and can fit loaves of bread or bags of groceries", The hood of the djellaba, which is called a "cob," is also what distinctly defines it from the kaftan, which is simply a button-down cloak that extends to the ankles or, in modern cases, the knees of the wearer that does not have an attached hood.Examples of the Moroccan woman's djellaba are below:
 | |
| This is an example of the Moroccan woman's djellaba. |
Another photo of women in a market in Casablanca wearing the traditional Moroccan djellaba robe.
An example of a Moroccan woman's djellaba. Notice the hood at the back of the garment.
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Berber Food and Folk Music
Berber Food and Folk Music
by Chris BeauchampThe dusty streets of Zagora feel very far away and very long ago. It’s hard to believe it was only yesterday. The contrast between the desert and even a small town like Zagora couldn’t be more pronounced. When the wind dies down out here, it is perfectly still. Perfectly quiet.
The view from under our Tamarist tree. That’s another tamarist beside the dune. These trees are quite literally the only shade to be had out here, and tend to grow only in the dunes.
We are about six to ten kilometers from the camp where we spent last night. It is about 30 degrees Celsius in the shade right now, and we are passing the hottest part of the day under a desert tree. Our young guide, Rashid, 28, tells us it is calledTamarist in French, “Lit-luh” in Arabic, and “Tashwoodth” in Berber. He doesn’t know the English name. Rashid is himself Berber, descended from the desert nomads who once lived off the land in this area, but who have mostly settled down in nearby communities since Rashid’s grandfather’s time. He speaks only slightly more English than we do French, which is very little indeed, but we’ve been getting along well regardless of language difficulties. Hand gestures and our own searching French do surprisingly well, as we try various synonyms of what we want to say in the hopes of hitting upon the half-forgotten vocabulary of long-ago French classes. Although it is now just the three of us making our way into the desert, last night we enjoyed the company of four or five other young Berber men, most of them Rashid’s age.
The bivouac encampment we stayed in is design for some 20 to 40 visitors at capacity, but we were lucky enough to be the only two. It is just past the high season around here, a time when the desert starts to get too hot for most. The camp includes several heavy wool Berber tents for sleeping, a permanent squatter toilet outhouse, and a communal tent for preparing meals and relaxing among rugs, cushions and low tables. Our mouths were watering as we sat in the communal tent (named, without a hint of irony, The Restaurant), smelling the tajine stewing in the next room and enjoying traditional Berber music. Tajine is probably Morocco’s most signature dish (alongside couscous), and you can find it on menus throughout the country. A good tajine can be made from pretty much anything you’d put into a stew, and the best tajines use only the freshest local ingredients; oil, carrots, potatoes, onion, yams, almonds, dates, lemon, olives, and peppers are all common, though seldom found altogether in the same tajine. It can be a vegetarian dish, or include beef, chicken, fish or lamb. Really, anything goes, but what makes every tajine a tajine is the conical ceramic cooking dish, or swaoui, a proper stewing time of several hours, and the inclusion of the typical Moroccan spice medley: saffron, paprika, cumin, ginger, salt and pepper. The night’s tajine was served with bread, communal style in a large swaoui in the middle of the table, and was very delicious. We were surprised to get desert as well: a heaping plate of watermelon.
The warm and inviting “Restaurant” at our first night’s bivouac camp. It was way cozier in there than in the harsh winds of the evening. The winds died down after sunset, and we enjoyed the first of several beautiful night skies.
Laura wearing her turban. The first night out there was unbelievably windy, so these things were necessary to keep the sand out of our mouths. In the coming days, they would prove to be the most important garment we owned, providing shade and shelter from the beating sun and regulating our body temperature better than any single thing we did.
The music was a perfect way to bracket the meal, as our Berber companions began to “jam” while the tajine was just getting started, and picked up where they left off after dinner. It impresses me deeply whenever I am exposed to a culture or family with such integral music traditions. Although music is very important to me, and I was a musician myself some years ago, I was not raised in a participatory music tradition, and its not nearly as widespread in our culture than in many places in the world. In the West, musicians are specialized individuals who perform their trade for the entertainment of others. Among the Berbers, and cultures with similar traditions, everyone is a musician, and music is not something to watch or listen to so much as to make together. These traditions will always be stronger in a culture where individuals must depend on entertaining themselves and each other, rather than being entertained by electronic mass media.
But making and sharing music is universal; every culture in human history has folk music traditions. I think our easy access to prepackaged entertainment in the West has trained us away from the instinct to simply go for it.
Anyway, Laura and I did our best to simply go for it, taking our turns clapping along, as well as playing the cymbals, beating the drums and dancing. I also tried the lute, but with a foreign tuning scheme, ten strings and no frets, I found it far more difficult than guitar, and could only manage a few feeble notes. The Berber songs typically used a call-and-response singing structure and although the words were unintelligible to us, most of the songs were lamentations. The sorrowful wails in Arabic and (I assume) the Berber dialect of Tashelhit seemed to speak of tragedies and injustices borne out of the distant past. These were occasionally offset by more upbeat melodies, with the pounding rhythm of makeshift tam tams (drums) thumping into frenzied finales. Other songs were instrumental, led by the lute player, and seemed to include improvisational elements based around a traditional song structure.
After some encouragement Laura and I were induced to share the only piece of Canadiana that would come to mind, although I’m not sure “Barrett’s Privateers” has ever been accompanied by such African-influenced percussion. And I, for one, choose to believe it was that relentless rhythm that drove the lyrics clean out of my head, forcing us to repeat the first verse four or five times before begging off at last in an awkward ending that seemed to leave our new friends unsure what to make of it all. They didn’t ask us to sing again after that, which was fine by me.
We joined in when we could. It was a great evening.
We were treated to traditional Berber music, by Daoud (right), and our guide Rashid (left), among others.
I’ve been in other situations where the ease with which those present share and participate in music has humbled me, and each time it forces me to ask myself: “Where are my songs?” On T.V.? The radio? The punk rock clique I was into as a younger man? The other music cliques and genres I could have fallen into had I made different friends? The folk music of cowboys? Of the maritimes? I enjoy these things but am neither cowboy nor maritimer. Where are my songs?
These young men know every word, can join in and improvise on a dozen or more traditional songs, passing the main rhythm drum and other instruments back and forth at will, sharing singing duties as needed. For them playing together is a daily routine, something to be savoured whenever and wherever they can come together in one place and time. These songs and the experience of sharing them are central to what makes them Berber.
Where are our songs?
Our last meal. Before the desert at least. Bread, tea, confections like jam and butter. That was pretty much it for breakfasts. You can see the Berber sleeping tents of the bivouac in the background. We just slept in the Restaurant, as it was already cozy and blocked the sand much more effectively.morocco culture,moroccan food,morocco food,moroccan cuisine,morocco beaches,moroccan meal,beaches in morocco,moroccan culture,hercules cave,hercules cave morocco
My experiences of travelling to Morocco and Marrakesh in particular
Morocco
I would like to add my experiences of travelling to Morocco and Marrakesh in particular. I took with me a headscarf and wore below the knees cropped trousers or a long linen skirt, coupled with ordinary t-shirts with round neckline. I found that I was not hassled at all by anyone there when I wore my headscarf and sunglasses – even though I was on my own and wasn’t wearing a wedding ring and have blond hair and blue eyes. I saw women of many nationalities wearing extremely revealing clothing and I was offended on behalf of the locals as I believe in dressing appropriately and respectfully. Another tip is to wear shoes that cover your feet and not flip-flops / thongs or sandals. The streets are not fantastically clean and the sewerage system was non-existent and so wearing shoes that protected your feet from manure are essential.
Abi, Cambridge, U.K.
The airline flying me to Morocco lost my luggage. It came on the next flight - 3 days later. As a result, I had to wear the pants and shirt I'd worn on the plane until it arrived. Pants are considered very revealing in some countries and here my outfit got me a lot of unwelcome comments. Men followed me and strangers touched me when I was in large crowds. I highly recommend packing a skirt and long-sleeved shirt in your carry-on when travelling to a muslim country -- just in case.
Melanie, Alexandria, USA
Moroccan men usually think that all Europeans are easy and therefore they feel free to pinch and touch. I discovered that for some strange motive they didn't bother me if I wore long black skirts and long sleeved black shirts (even if form fitting). The color black seems to 'cool them down.' And my hair in a pony-tail seemed better than loose curly hair.
Sofía, Sevilla, Spain
Travel in a Moslem country is very different from that in European countries. Fortunately, I was with a tour group and we were told what and what not to wear each day. No shorts ever, no jewelry, a secure money belt and bum pack for other objects. Moroccan men were very bold about touching and/or pinching foreign women. They followed us with their eyes wherever we went and so we had to appear modest and unassuming in public. It pays to be very careful and aware in Morocco. Children clung to us and held our hands as soon as they saw us -- maybe they were just friendly, but maybe not.
Betty, Vancouver, Canada
Ed. note: It pays to keep your eyes and ears open wherever you travel. A female traveller does best when she's not complacent.
During my month in Morocco, I wore long skirts and long-sleeved button-up shirts and was free from harassment (and sunburn!). Wearing more conservative clothing made me feel more respectful and less like a target. If you journey to the dunes, bring along a scarf or piece of fabric to tie around your face to keep out the blowing sands. Enjoy!
Lindsay, Colorado Springs, USA
My husband is a Moroccan and I have travelled there once with him. This is what I learned about culturally correct clothing. It's true that Moroccan women do often wear Euro fashion. However, please understand that if you wear tight or short clothing there is a chance for harassment. When I went there I wore pants and knee high skirts and men did make remarks even though I was with my husband. From experience I can say, my best advice is to dress modestly. If you are still attracting attention you can buy an inexpensive djelleba while you are there. They are comfortable and nice.
Janah, San Diego, USA
When in Morocco, some Western women have the idea that it's a strong political statement to wear western clothes, the likes of which you might see in a park or on a beach in Toronto or Vancouver. Although I readily call myself a feminist, I think the unisex Djellaba (long, loose coat worn over clothes) is a wise idea. Here's why:
1) You can easily string your money/passport pouch under the dress and while you can easily access the cash and ID via the slits in the side of your djellaba, a thief will have to work much harder for it.
2) If you get a thick or dark colored djellaba, you don't really have to wear much under it. Very freeing (also true of the chador and abaya)
3) If you put on your djellaba the first day, it looks like you've been there longer than you have and you're less likely to be hassled by hustlers.
4) For the same reason as above, you'll get better prices in the souk (unless the djellaba is blindingly new).
5) You'll never get to speak to any women, if you appear to disregard their culture.
6) It cuts out the "what am I going to wear today" stress that's a real annoyance when traveling.
And, besides, they're quite cool in the heat and beautiful as well, in the wide array of colours and variations on the basic design. Happy souking, ladies!
Buffy, Toronto, Canada
"Western" women are not expected to dress like traditional native Moroccan women, and indeed many sophisticated or foreign-educated Moroccan women have adopted European fashion styles. However, no matter how tight the pants or short the skirt, they always keep that collar bone covered up. Your vee-neck sweaters, even blouses, no matter how chaste you think they are, may be interpreted as risque, disrespectful, or inappropriate in Morocco.
Pamela, Minneapolis, USA
Advice: Wear loose clothing such as baggy pants or long skirts and a loose-fitting blouse or t-shirt. Not only will it keep you cool and protected from the sun, but it will lessen unwanted attention received by local men. Tight or revealing clothing always invites attention (the local women get harassed too); short pants are not worn by Moroccan women. Note: you will see all dress styles in the large cities in Morocco from total veiling to revealing. As a foreign woman you will be an attraction to the local men; wearing loose clothing will reduce the harassment. Remember that Moroccans are friendly, curious people who like to find out about you. Don't be afraid to chat with them, especially the hanout (small store) owners. Many people speak some English and will be delighted to hear you say a word or two in Arabic. Final tip: wear a wedding band and invent a husband if you don't have one.
Sheri, Rabat, Morocco
In Morocco, foreign women should try to buy a djelleba (traditional dress with hood, that so many of the Moroccan women wear). If you do this, you'll be very comfy and will not stand out as a foreigner.Covering your head isn't necessary as many women don't, but you can if you want to. If you dress to blend in, you will not be a target for the beggers and con-artists. Please note that Moroccans in Marrakech, Fez and small villages are more traditional then Moroccans in Rabat, Casablanca and Tangier..etc..
Bailey Varos, Erie, USA
Take along a large, long, lightweight, rectangular scarf is my best recommendation. I used it to cover my head or cover my shoulders in the souk, as a cover-up at the pool, it prevented sunburn and protected my hair.
Gillian, Castletown, Isle of Man.
morocco culture,moroccan food,morocco food,moroccan cuisine,morocco beaches,moroccan meal,beaches in morocco,moroccan culture,hercules cave,hercules cave morocco
I would like to add my experiences of travelling to Morocco and Marrakesh in particular. I took with me a headscarf and wore below the knees cropped trousers or a long linen skirt, coupled with ordinary t-shirts with round neckline. I found that I was not hassled at all by anyone there when I wore my headscarf and sunglasses – even though I was on my own and wasn’t wearing a wedding ring and have blond hair and blue eyes. I saw women of many nationalities wearing extremely revealing clothing and I was offended on behalf of the locals as I believe in dressing appropriately and respectfully. Another tip is to wear shoes that cover your feet and not flip-flops / thongs or sandals. The streets are not fantastically clean and the sewerage system was non-existent and so wearing shoes that protected your feet from manure are essential.
Abi, Cambridge, U.K.
The airline flying me to Morocco lost my luggage. It came on the next flight - 3 days later. As a result, I had to wear the pants and shirt I'd worn on the plane until it arrived. Pants are considered very revealing in some countries and here my outfit got me a lot of unwelcome comments. Men followed me and strangers touched me when I was in large crowds. I highly recommend packing a skirt and long-sleeved shirt in your carry-on when travelling to a muslim country -- just in case.
Melanie, Alexandria, USA
Moroccan men usually think that all Europeans are easy and therefore they feel free to pinch and touch. I discovered that for some strange motive they didn't bother me if I wore long black skirts and long sleeved black shirts (even if form fitting). The color black seems to 'cool them down.' And my hair in a pony-tail seemed better than loose curly hair.
Sofía, Sevilla, Spain
Travel in a Moslem country is very different from that in European countries. Fortunately, I was with a tour group and we were told what and what not to wear each day. No shorts ever, no jewelry, a secure money belt and bum pack for other objects. Moroccan men were very bold about touching and/or pinching foreign women. They followed us with their eyes wherever we went and so we had to appear modest and unassuming in public. It pays to be very careful and aware in Morocco. Children clung to us and held our hands as soon as they saw us -- maybe they were just friendly, but maybe not.
Betty, Vancouver, Canada
Ed. note: It pays to keep your eyes and ears open wherever you travel. A female traveller does best when she's not complacent.
During my month in Morocco, I wore long skirts and long-sleeved button-up shirts and was free from harassment (and sunburn!). Wearing more conservative clothing made me feel more respectful and less like a target. If you journey to the dunes, bring along a scarf or piece of fabric to tie around your face to keep out the blowing sands. Enjoy!
Lindsay, Colorado Springs, USA
My husband is a Moroccan and I have travelled there once with him. This is what I learned about culturally correct clothing. It's true that Moroccan women do often wear Euro fashion. However, please understand that if you wear tight or short clothing there is a chance for harassment. When I went there I wore pants and knee high skirts and men did make remarks even though I was with my husband. From experience I can say, my best advice is to dress modestly. If you are still attracting attention you can buy an inexpensive djelleba while you are there. They are comfortable and nice.
Janah, San Diego, USA
When in Morocco, some Western women have the idea that it's a strong political statement to wear western clothes, the likes of which you might see in a park or on a beach in Toronto or Vancouver. Although I readily call myself a feminist, I think the unisex Djellaba (long, loose coat worn over clothes) is a wise idea. Here's why:
1) You can easily string your money/passport pouch under the dress and while you can easily access the cash and ID via the slits in the side of your djellaba, a thief will have to work much harder for it.
2) If you get a thick or dark colored djellaba, you don't really have to wear much under it. Very freeing (also true of the chador and abaya)
3) If you put on your djellaba the first day, it looks like you've been there longer than you have and you're less likely to be hassled by hustlers.
4) For the same reason as above, you'll get better prices in the souk (unless the djellaba is blindingly new).
5) You'll never get to speak to any women, if you appear to disregard their culture.
6) It cuts out the "what am I going to wear today" stress that's a real annoyance when traveling.
And, besides, they're quite cool in the heat and beautiful as well, in the wide array of colours and variations on the basic design. Happy souking, ladies!
Buffy, Toronto, Canada
"Western" women are not expected to dress like traditional native Moroccan women, and indeed many sophisticated or foreign-educated Moroccan women have adopted European fashion styles. However, no matter how tight the pants or short the skirt, they always keep that collar bone covered up. Your vee-neck sweaters, even blouses, no matter how chaste you think they are, may be interpreted as risque, disrespectful, or inappropriate in Morocco.
Pamela, Minneapolis, USA
Advice: Wear loose clothing such as baggy pants or long skirts and a loose-fitting blouse or t-shirt. Not only will it keep you cool and protected from the sun, but it will lessen unwanted attention received by local men. Tight or revealing clothing always invites attention (the local women get harassed too); short pants are not worn by Moroccan women. Note: you will see all dress styles in the large cities in Morocco from total veiling to revealing. As a foreign woman you will be an attraction to the local men; wearing loose clothing will reduce the harassment. Remember that Moroccans are friendly, curious people who like to find out about you. Don't be afraid to chat with them, especially the hanout (small store) owners. Many people speak some English and will be delighted to hear you say a word or two in Arabic. Final tip: wear a wedding band and invent a husband if you don't have one.
Sheri, Rabat, Morocco
In Morocco, foreign women should try to buy a djelleba (traditional dress with hood, that so many of the Moroccan women wear). If you do this, you'll be very comfy and will not stand out as a foreigner.Covering your head isn't necessary as many women don't, but you can if you want to. If you dress to blend in, you will not be a target for the beggers and con-artists. Please note that Moroccans in Marrakech, Fez and small villages are more traditional then Moroccans in Rabat, Casablanca and Tangier..etc..
Bailey Varos, Erie, USA
Take along a large, long, lightweight, rectangular scarf is my best recommendation. I used it to cover my head or cover my shoulders in the souk, as a cover-up at the pool, it prevented sunburn and protected my hair.
Gillian, Castletown, Isle of Man.
morocco culture,moroccan food,morocco food,moroccan cuisine,morocco beaches,moroccan meal,beaches in morocco,moroccan culture,hercules cave,hercules cave morocco
Berber Food and Folk Music
Berber Food and Folk Music
by Chris BeauchampThe dusty streets of Zagora feel very far away and very long ago. It’s hard to believe it was only yesterday. The contrast between the desert and even a small town like Zagora couldn’t be more pronounced. When the wind dies down out here, it is perfectly still. Perfectly quiet.
The view from under our Tamarist tree. That’s another tamarist beside the dune. These trees are quite literally the only shade to be had out here, and tend to grow only in the dunes.
We are about six to ten kilometers from the camp where we spent last night. It is about 30 degrees Celsius in the shade right now, and we are passing the hottest part of the day under a desert tree. Our young guide, Rashid, 28, tells us it is calledTamarist in French, “Lit-luh” in Arabic, and “Tashwoodth” in Berber. He doesn’t know the English name. Rashid is himself Berber, descended from the desert nomads who once lived off the land in this area, but who have mostly settled down in nearby communities since Rashid’s grandfather’s time. He speaks only slightly more English than we do French, which is very little indeed, but we’ve been getting along well regardless of language difficulties. Hand gestures and our own searching French do surprisingly well, as we try various synonyms of what we want to say in the hopes of hitting upon the half-forgotten vocabulary of long-ago French classes. Although it is now just the three of us making our way into the desert, last night we enjoyed the company of four or five other young Berber men, most of them Rashid’s age.
The bivouac encampment we stayed in is design for some 20 to 40 visitors at capacity, but we were lucky enough to be the only two. It is just past the high season around here, a time when the desert starts to get too hot for most. The camp includes several heavy wool Berber tents for sleeping, a permanent squatter toilet outhouse, and a communal tent for preparing meals and relaxing among rugs, cushions and low tables. Our mouths were watering as we sat in the communal tent (named, without a hint of irony, The Restaurant), smelling the tajine stewing in the next room and enjoying traditional Berber music. Tajine is probably Morocco’s most signature dish (alongside couscous), and you can find it on menus throughout the country. A good tajine can be made from pretty much anything you’d put into a stew, and the best tajines use only the freshest local ingredients; oil, carrots, potatoes, onion, yams, almonds, dates, lemon, olives, and peppers are all common, though seldom found altogether in the same tajine. It can be a vegetarian dish, or include beef, chicken, fish or lamb. Really, anything goes, but what makes every tajine a tajine is the conical ceramic cooking dish, or swaoui, a proper stewing time of several hours, and the inclusion of the typical Moroccan spice medley: saffron, paprika, cumin, ginger, salt and pepper. The night’s tajine was served with bread, communal style in a large swaoui in the middle of the table, and was very delicious. We were surprised to get desert as well: a heaping plate of watermelon.
The warm and inviting “Restaurant” at our first night’s bivouac camp. It was way cozier in there than in the harsh winds of the evening. The winds died down after sunset, and we enjoyed the first of several beautiful night skies.
Laura wearing her turban. The first night out there was unbelievably windy, so these things were necessary to keep the sand out of our mouths. In the coming days, they would prove to be the most important garment we owned, providing shade and shelter from the beating sun and regulating our body temperature better than any single thing we did.
The music was a perfect way to bracket the meal, as our Berber companions began to “jam” while the tajine was just getting started, and picked up where they left off after dinner. It impresses me deeply whenever I am exposed to a culture or family with such integral music traditions. Although music is very important to me, and I was a musician myself some years ago, I was not raised in a participatory music tradition, and its not nearly as widespread in our culture than in many places in the world. In the West, musicians are specialized individuals who perform their trade for the entertainment of others. Among the Berbers, and cultures with similar traditions, everyone is a musician, and music is not something to watch or listen to so much as to make together. These traditions will always be stronger in a culture where individuals must depend on entertaining themselves and each other, rather than being entertained by electronic mass media.
But making and sharing music is universal; every culture in human history has folk music traditions. I think our easy access to prepackaged entertainment in the West has trained us away from the instinct to simply go for it.
Anyway, Laura and I did our best to simply go for it, taking our turns clapping along, as well as playing the cymbals, beating the drums and dancing. I also tried the lute, but with a foreign tuning scheme, ten strings and no frets, I found it far more difficult than guitar, and could only manage a few feeble notes. The Berber songs typically used a call-and-response singing structure and although the words were unintelligible to us, most of the songs were lamentations. The sorrowful wails in Arabic and (I assume) the Berber dialect of Tashelhit seemed to speak of tragedies and injustices borne out of the distant past. These were occasionally offset by more upbeat melodies, with the pounding rhythm of makeshift tam tams (drums) thumping into frenzied finales. Other songs were instrumental, led by the lute player, and seemed to include improvisational elements based around a traditional song structure.
After some encouragement Laura and I were induced to share the only piece of Canadiana that would come to mind, although I’m not sure “Barrett’s Privateers” has ever been accompanied by such African-influenced percussion. And I, for one, choose to believe it was that relentless rhythm that drove the lyrics clean out of my head, forcing us to repeat the first verse four or five times before begging off at last in an awkward ending that seemed to leave our new friends unsure what to make of it all. They didn’t ask us to sing again after that, which was fine by me.
We joined in when we could. It was a great evening.
We were treated to traditional Berber music, by Daoud (right), and our guide Rashid (left), among others.
I’ve been in other situations where the ease with which those present share and participate in music has humbled me, and each time it forces me to ask myself: “Where are my songs?” On T.V.? The radio? The punk rock clique I was into as a younger man? The other music cliques and genres I could have fallen into had I made different friends? The folk music of cowboys? Of the maritimes? I enjoy these things but am neither cowboy nor maritimer. Where are my songs?
These young men know every word, can join in and improvise on a dozen or more traditional songs, passing the main rhythm drum and other instruments back and forth at will, sharing singing duties as needed. For them playing together is a daily routine, something to be savoured whenever and wherever they can come together in one place and time. These songs and the experience of sharing them are central to what makes them Berber.
Where are our songs?
Our last meal. Before the desert at least. Bread, tea, confections like jam and butter. That was pretty much it for breakfasts. You can see the Berber sleeping tents of the bivouac in the background. We just slept in the Restaurant, as it was already cozy and blocked the sand much more effectively.morocco culture,moroccan food,morocco food,moroccan cuisine,morocco beaches,moroccan meal,beaches in morocco,moroccan culture,hercules cave,hercules cave morocco
clothing for women traveling to morocco
clothing for women traveling to morocco
Moroccan Women's Clothing
Morocco Travel Information
Traditional clothing for women in Morocco consists of brightly colored, long flowing robes, headscarves, slippers, button down blouses, and, sometimes, even veils. This style of clothing has been cultivated since the ancient times of Moroccan history, and is still a part of the living tradition and culture of the country today. Typically, the women of Morocco continue wearing the traditional clothing of their forbearers without extensive variation or influence from the realms of Western fashion, but modern alterations of the historic Muslim-influenced styles of dress are rapidly creeping into wardrobes. Heterogeneous fashions - mixes between traditional Muslim/ Moroccan and modern women's clothing fashions - can now be observed in the streets of Morocco today, but the principles of hijab, the Muslim idea of modest dress, still prevail. There are various different articles of clothing that make up the Moroccan woman's wardrobe, and this paper is meant to shine some light on these pieces, as well as discuss the ways in which Muslim women's fashion has been changing in Morocco.
morocco culture,moroccan food,morocco food,moroccan cuisine,morocco beaches,moroccan meal,beaches in morocco,moroccan culture,hercules cave,hercules cave morocco
Moroccan Women's Clothing
Morocco Travel Information
Traditional clothing for women in Morocco consists of brightly colored, long flowing robes, headscarves, slippers, button down blouses, and, sometimes, even veils. This style of clothing has been cultivated since the ancient times of Moroccan history, and is still a part of the living tradition and culture of the country today. Typically, the women of Morocco continue wearing the traditional clothing of their forbearers without extensive variation or influence from the realms of Western fashion, but modern alterations of the historic Muslim-influenced styles of dress are rapidly creeping into wardrobes. Heterogeneous fashions - mixes between traditional Muslim/ Moroccan and modern women's clothing fashions - can now be observed in the streets of Morocco today, but the principles of hijab, the Muslim idea of modest dress, still prevail. There are various different articles of clothing that make up the Moroccan woman's wardrobe, and this paper is meant to shine some light on these pieces, as well as discuss the ways in which Muslim women's fashion has been changing in Morocco.
morocco culture,moroccan food,morocco food,moroccan cuisine,morocco beaches,moroccan meal,beaches in morocco,moroccan culture,hercules cave,hercules cave morocco
Moroccan ceramics, food, fashion, religion and most important, tips on how to use a squat toilet
Moroccan ceramics, food, fashion, religion and most important, tips on how to use a squat toilet
by Laura BeauchampSahara Desert spider. This little guy crawled into our tent one night during our Sahara Trek. Our guide quickly killed it. After looking at the spider more closely, I was glad he did.During our 3-week adventure in Morocco, I noticed some interesting things that I thought I could share with you. Currently we are in Bucharest, Romania. We just arrived here yesterday after a one day layover in Milano, Italy and before that we spent a quick two days in Madrid. I will get some photos up of Madrid shortly. In the mean time enjoy the following.CERAMICS & TILESMorocco has tiles on some roofs that strongly resemble the ones used in Italy, only the tiles are smaller and are usually found in one of three colours: orangish-red, blue or green. After visiting a ceramic producing town near Zagora in south-eastern Morocco, we learnt that green is the most common and traditional colour for not only roof tiles but also any shape that can be made out of ceramic, like ash trays, serving platters, plates, sugar bowls and the infamous Moroccan tanjine pot. In fact, green is the colour of Islam.The roof tiles in Morocco are very much like the ones in Italy. They are generally green, but you’ll also see blue and an orangish-red.The many different colours of the ceramics are produced with primarily natural dyes. The yellow ceramics are dyed with saffron, the blue with indigo, and the light pinkish-red with henna water and lemon. The green is made from a combination of three things, one of them being copper. Some ceramics are fired once to make them off-white in colour, then they are decorated with naturally produced henna. After one more firing in the kiln, the design is everlasting.FOODLunch and dinner in Morocco start with complimentary bread and a small plate of fantastic fresh olives. Salt and pepper are kept in small, communal dishes on the table instead of shakers. This means everyone must use their fingers to pinch the salt and/or pepper onto their food. The pure lack of soap, toilet paper, hand blowers and paper towels in restrooms has led me to eating my meals without the aid of salt and pepper.
A weekly market in one of the small towns of Morocco. If you’re hungry while shopping you can grab a roasted corn cob.ALCOHOLIt is almost impossible to find alcohol in Morocco, although it is available. The local brew is called “SPECIAL BEER”, that’s literally and actually the name of the beer.
It comes in itty-bitty 24 cl bottles. Roughly three of these bottles equates to one standard Canadian bottle of beer. The servers in one bar had a habit of leaving the empties on the table, therefore making Chris and I look like extreme alcoholics when we had accumulated 12 bottles on the table within a couple of hours.MOSQUESIslam is the main religion in Morocco yet prayer call is not heard as often nor as loud as in Turkey. In fact, the call to prayer in El-Jadida sounded very different. It sounded shorter and staccato. Mosques are not as plentiful or easy to locate.
A large mosque in Tangier’s medina overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar. You can just make out Spain in the distance.The only indication of a building being a mosque is the 5–6 story square tower. There are no domed roofs, extra spires, or elaborate decorations and tile work like the mosques of Turkey. In a sense, the mosques had a much more humble feeling.WOMEN’S CLOTHINGYoung girls and adolescence wear western styled clothes like tight emo-jeans and T-shirt. The majority of women and teenage girls wear headscarves and occasionally you’ll see a girl as young as seven wearing one. The women here must have huge wardrobes in order to have a headscarf that perfectly matches the long-sleeved shirt which she has to wear under the floor-length backless summer dress. This is the attire of a very modern Moroccan lady in a big city like Meknes or Fes.
The traditional outfit of Moroccan women. It is worn over their normal clothes, like a jacket.In nearly all the rural cities, towns and still within the larger cities the majority of women continue to wear the traditional outfit, a long-sleeved, ankle-length, hooded, “jacket”. Patterns and colours are limited only by the imagination. They come in patterns like leopard, zebra, bright red, green, purple, floral print, vibrant turquoise etc.
The tanneries in Fez’s medina souk. This is one of the first stages in creating the many fashionable bags or purses for sale. The entire area reeked of death (like Brooks Alberta).MEN’S CLOTHINGThe variety of mens dress exceeds anything yet seen in the history of the Western world. Primarily men just wear pants and collared T-shirts, but you will also see men in thobes (a long-sleeved, floor length, white coloured outfit, which kind of looks like a dress shirt that’s been tailored to the ankles), a jacket somewhat like the ladies only without the hood and slightly wider cut and lastly some men wear long-sleeved, floor length, hooded robes usually dark brown or green in colour.
A husband and wife stroll through the Eassouria medina souk together.When men are dressed in these with the hood up they remind me of the Jwa’s from Star Wars. The hoods are very unique in how they point at the top and how the men fold them up so they can see.SHOES
Moroccan shoes.This style of shoe is “very Moroccan”. All ages of people wear them. It is almost as if the design of the shoe developed out of function (like most things). You know when you’re in a hurry to catch someone who just left your house, how you slip on your shoes really quickly flattening the heals into the shoe? The Moroccan shoe looks like this has happened to all of them, only the maker sewed down the heel in the squished down position.TOILETSCarry around soap in a plastic bag in your purse because 98% of toilets do not have any type of hand sanitizer. It is also wise to carry around hand sanitizer to use before/after toilets and eating. In Morocco , 95% of the toilets are squat toilets. If you are not use to these it helps to wear a skirt which can be easily lifted out of the way.
Squat toilets are everywhere in Morocco.To avoid as much spray back as possible it is important to put your feet at quite a wide stance, but even more important is squatting as low as you can (without falling into the festering hole of waste beneath you!). My last piece of advice on how to squat properly and come out relatively clean is aim. The better you are at aiming for the drain increases your chance of less spray back by ten. Some squat toilets have a flush, some don’t. Look up and around for a string to flush. If you don’t see anything, I can guarantee you’ll see a tap and a little bucket. Without thinking about it too much, turn on the tap, fill the bucket and dump it down the hole. This must be the most energy efficient flush on the planet, but now you see why I highly recommend carrying soap and hand sanitizer. Toilet paper, very important, is not used really in many places believe it or not. Carry your own toilet paper at all times. Sometimes there will be a garbage bin with you and your squat toilet. If not, try to use as little as possible and wash it down the drain with your little bucket. Do not put tampons down the toilets, you may really, really regret it.morocco culture,moroccan food,morocco food,moroccan cuisine,morocco beaches,moroccan meal,beaches in morocco,moroccan culture,hercules cave,hercules cave morocco
What to wear in Morocco
What to wear in Morocco
What to wear in Morocco???,,
I'm sure this has been done before but I couldn't find a post dedicated to it alone.
There seems to be quite a bit contradictory information about how to dress. This is what I have gathered...
Men
Should dress smart & not show skin (no sleeveless tops, shorts and flipflops).
Closed shoes?
What about T-shirts - are they ok?
Women
It's less strict in cities but to avoid unwanted attention...
No low cut tops - but how low is low? Is it ok to show some skin if no cleavage is show?
No tight clothing - but hw tight is tight? Must it be baggy?
No arms or legs on display at all.
What about sandals - if worn with long skirt ankles will show...
No make-up - how bad is to wear it then?
However then it gets confusing because it says
Quote
Despite the stigmas, many "modern" Moroccan women will wear "western"-style clothes. Go out into any street of a large Moroccan city and you will see many women wearing tight shirts that reveal anything from the shoulder to the belly-button, short skirts and very close fitting jeans. Make-up and blond hair are very much in fashion
What about covering the head with a shawl? Some sites (& posters here) say yes you should especially if you have blond hair. Others say it is completely unnecessary.
How different is how a woman is treated if she is with her husband (which is what I will be), alone or with a girlfriend?
I went with my 17 year old brother, in Djema el Fal I was amazed at the difference it made having him with me from the times I was wandering around alone, in other cities I didn't really wander around alone so I am not sure what that would have been like. Generally though the hassle wasn't major and I usually just ignored it, my brother found it more stressful than I did.
Clothes wise I wore t-shirts, my boobs aren't tiny so t-shirts are never really loose on me, but they weren't really clingy and 3/4 trousers. If I was going to a religious site I wore full lengh trousers (many people weren't) and maybe a kaftan type top (but again lots of people didn't bother). In Marrakech I was quite shocked at what a lot of tourists were wearing (think tiny skirts and low cut vest tops) so I think they are more relaxed in what they expectto see touists wearing there.
I wore a bit of make up on an evening, didn't feel it affected the way I was treated.
As for blokes I don't think tshirts would be a problem, bro wore sandals but he does look quite young so not sure ifhe gets away with more than others?
Only time I felt uncomfortable was in the hotel bars as most women in there are prostitutes so I got a few sleezy looks but no worse thanI get in my local nightclub here at 2am!
Okay, Ria, wherever you got your information - you ought to write them a letter of complaint, because some of that is quite absurd.
Men should not wear sleeveless shirts (don't show their armpit hair), and shorts are debateable (only young urban Moroccan men, 20s and under, might wear them), but flip flops are absolutely fine, as are other sandals. Moroccan men tend to be well-dressed, so if you look sloppy, the only problem is standing out as a tourist. That said, you will not offend anyone with sloppiness.
Women should avoid the following: cleavage, shoulders (although I show mine in the summer, and so do many Moroccans), and legs above the knee or mid-calf (skirts should go PAST the knee, not to it). That stuff is the only stuff I personally consider to be necessary.
Ankles are fine, feet are fine, lower arms are fine. Neck is fine, but the lower-cut the shirt is, the more attention you will get (in my opinion, as long as you don't see breast at all, it's okay).
It's best to wear looser tops, as Moroccan men will of course (like men in most places) stare at the outline of breasts, and some women find it prudent to wear shirts that cover their bottom if wearing tight pants, but again, it's not necessary.
Make-up is FINE. FINE! Almost all Moroccan women over 16 years old wear makeup in some form. Lipstick is much less common, but kohl around the eyes is practically a rite of passage. Just don't overdo it (but seriously, why would you?)
DON'T cover your head unless it's with a bandanna or hat. There is absolutely no need to cover your hair; you are not Muslim and no one expects you to dress like a strict Muslim woman. I suppose if you're visiting some very conservative small village and all the women there are wearing it, you may want to, but in any sizeable city, I'd say 50% of women do, 50% don't.
As for being with a man, well...your husband will be addressed if he's with you, you will not. 9 times of 10, anyway. You won't get as many stares (particularly if you're obviously together, e.g. holding hands), but some men will still take it too far and try to harass you. I was with my husband once and a man cupped imaginary breasts toward me and said "niiiiice." By the time I got my husband's attention, the guy started pretending he didn't speak English.
Ria, I think you are worrying too much. You will see a little of everything, depending on which town you are in. Makeup certainly is o.k. and you do not need headcovering. But yes, I do think shorts for both men and women are inappropriate, as are sleeveless blouses for women...but I am sure alifbaa and the other regular female posters will chime in with suggestions.
Ria, thanks for posting this. And alifbaa, thanks for answering. I've been wondering much the same things -- it seems like the guidebooks are totally contradictory on the clothing for women question. It's nice to hear a straight answer from someone.
Why you all complicate things , You can wear what ever you want , Morocco is a country of Freedom and Democracy there's no Harm if you didnt wear the same as people do :)
But if your a fan of moroccan clothes then u will be excited where ever u go u had to change ur clothes , maybe from the north to the south coz so many tradition and cultures , Berber , Aouribiya , Jebala , Doukala , Sahraoui and more so u have to be ready lol
Alifbaa i dont think so all of our country men treat all the womens this way but only some of them , they need little bit to get sexual teaching in life thats all , step by step :)
So if some do treat women wrongly so that mean u have to change ur clothes ? Strange ! LOL , everyone has his personnality so if yours strong enough to convice that men or help him out to understand that could help and if u think u have to wear what we are wearing then go ahead :)
Peace & Love .Of Course we got freedom and democracy :) just u cant feel it if u are a stranger thats all :)
I've just come back from a week in Marrakech and Essaouira and found that when I was with my (female) friend I had virtually no hassle, when we went out on our own we both had quite a few blokes come up and whisper things to us while we were walking, usually along the lines of "hi how are you" but one did say something rude. On the whole, neither of us had hardly any hassle and thought all the reports are ridiculously overblown. We both wore long sleeved shirts and long trousers or skirts all the time and wore a little make up as well - as other posters have said it's really hard to imagine why you would wear skimpy tops and things. Tourists who were wearing skimpy clothes seemed to get hassled constantly in the Medina, whereas we didn't at all.
that's a nice thought, but having lived here for awhile, I can tell you that despite the fact that some Moroccan women can get away with wearing whatever they want, foreign women are subject to harassment ten times stronger. And of course it's not all Moroccan men who perpetrate this, but if we assume that at least half do (and it sure seems that way in Meknes), then that's a lot of harassment.
I can't feel freedom and democracy because I'm not Moroccan? Gee, I'll bet the Nichane journalists, who are Moroccan, aren't feeling it so much right now either. Neither is Aboubakr Jamai, who has apparently just left this free country.
I love Morocco, my friend, but please consider the fact that tourists are coming to Morocco to enjoy their time, not fend off hordes of Moroccan men.
I wore long trousers or skirts at all times and usually vest/thin strapped tops but with a loose cotton shirt over the top and always had a pashmina/scarf at hand. If I was on top of the tourist bus, at a rooftop terrace restaurant or somewhere quiet I would strip down to the vest top to soak up the gorgeous heat of the sun. When on the streets I'd wear the loose cotton top over the vest, and if I felt I was being particularly looked at I would wrap the pashmina around my shoulders. There were other women wearing a lot less and looked quite comfortable but I also saw women who were walking around hunched with arms crossed across their chests and looking very uncomfortable - I can only imagine they were on their first walk through the Medina.
I wasn't unduly harrassed, none of the men touch, but I found that some them can give a look that is so penetrating it feels like they're more than touching. It's quite unpleasant, paticularly when coupled with whispered comments or even just a sort of "tsk" sound. Unfortunately it's all done so slyly , softly and quickly that my boyfriend never saw it happen and for a time he thought I was being silly and over-reacting by wrapping myself up in layers and layers!!
Hope this helps!
morocco culture,moroccan food,morocco food,moroccan cuisine,morocco beaches,moroccan meal,beaches in morocco,moroccan culture,hercules cave,hercules cave morocco
What to wear in Morocco???,,
I'm sure this has been done before but I couldn't find a post dedicated to it alone.
There seems to be quite a bit contradictory information about how to dress. This is what I have gathered...
Men
Should dress smart & not show skin (no sleeveless tops, shorts and flipflops).
Closed shoes?
What about T-shirts - are they ok?
Women
It's less strict in cities but to avoid unwanted attention...
No low cut tops - but how low is low? Is it ok to show some skin if no cleavage is show?
No tight clothing - but hw tight is tight? Must it be baggy?
No arms or legs on display at all.
What about sandals - if worn with long skirt ankles will show...
No make-up - how bad is to wear it then?
However then it gets confusing because it says
Quote
Despite the stigmas, many "modern" Moroccan women will wear "western"-style clothes. Go out into any street of a large Moroccan city and you will see many women wearing tight shirts that reveal anything from the shoulder to the belly-button, short skirts and very close fitting jeans. Make-up and blond hair are very much in fashion
What about covering the head with a shawl? Some sites (& posters here) say yes you should especially if you have blond hair. Others say it is completely unnecessary.
How different is how a woman is treated if she is with her husband (which is what I will be), alone or with a girlfriend?
I went with my 17 year old brother, in Djema el Fal I was amazed at the difference it made having him with me from the times I was wandering around alone, in other cities I didn't really wander around alone so I am not sure what that would have been like. Generally though the hassle wasn't major and I usually just ignored it, my brother found it more stressful than I did.
Clothes wise I wore t-shirts, my boobs aren't tiny so t-shirts are never really loose on me, but they weren't really clingy and 3/4 trousers. If I was going to a religious site I wore full lengh trousers (many people weren't) and maybe a kaftan type top (but again lots of people didn't bother). In Marrakech I was quite shocked at what a lot of tourists were wearing (think tiny skirts and low cut vest tops) so I think they are more relaxed in what they expectto see touists wearing there.
I wore a bit of make up on an evening, didn't feel it affected the way I was treated.
As for blokes I don't think tshirts would be a problem, bro wore sandals but he does look quite young so not sure ifhe gets away with more than others?
Only time I felt uncomfortable was in the hotel bars as most women in there are prostitutes so I got a few sleezy looks but no worse thanI get in my local nightclub here at 2am!
Okay, Ria, wherever you got your information - you ought to write them a letter of complaint, because some of that is quite absurd.
Men should not wear sleeveless shirts (don't show their armpit hair), and shorts are debateable (only young urban Moroccan men, 20s and under, might wear them), but flip flops are absolutely fine, as are other sandals. Moroccan men tend to be well-dressed, so if you look sloppy, the only problem is standing out as a tourist. That said, you will not offend anyone with sloppiness.
Women should avoid the following: cleavage, shoulders (although I show mine in the summer, and so do many Moroccans), and legs above the knee or mid-calf (skirts should go PAST the knee, not to it). That stuff is the only stuff I personally consider to be necessary.
Ankles are fine, feet are fine, lower arms are fine. Neck is fine, but the lower-cut the shirt is, the more attention you will get (in my opinion, as long as you don't see breast at all, it's okay).
It's best to wear looser tops, as Moroccan men will of course (like men in most places) stare at the outline of breasts, and some women find it prudent to wear shirts that cover their bottom if wearing tight pants, but again, it's not necessary.
Make-up is FINE. FINE! Almost all Moroccan women over 16 years old wear makeup in some form. Lipstick is much less common, but kohl around the eyes is practically a rite of passage. Just don't overdo it (but seriously, why would you?)
DON'T cover your head unless it's with a bandanna or hat. There is absolutely no need to cover your hair; you are not Muslim and no one expects you to dress like a strict Muslim woman. I suppose if you're visiting some very conservative small village and all the women there are wearing it, you may want to, but in any sizeable city, I'd say 50% of women do, 50% don't.
As for being with a man, well...your husband will be addressed if he's with you, you will not. 9 times of 10, anyway. You won't get as many stares (particularly if you're obviously together, e.g. holding hands), but some men will still take it too far and try to harass you. I was with my husband once and a man cupped imaginary breasts toward me and said "niiiiice." By the time I got my husband's attention, the guy started pretending he didn't speak English.
Ria, I think you are worrying too much. You will see a little of everything, depending on which town you are in. Makeup certainly is o.k. and you do not need headcovering. But yes, I do think shorts for both men and women are inappropriate, as are sleeveless blouses for women...but I am sure alifbaa and the other regular female posters will chime in with suggestions.
Ria, thanks for posting this. And alifbaa, thanks for answering. I've been wondering much the same things -- it seems like the guidebooks are totally contradictory on the clothing for women question. It's nice to hear a straight answer from someone.
Why you all complicate things , You can wear what ever you want , Morocco is a country of Freedom and Democracy there's no Harm if you didnt wear the same as people do :)
But if your a fan of moroccan clothes then u will be excited where ever u go u had to change ur clothes , maybe from the north to the south coz so many tradition and cultures , Berber , Aouribiya , Jebala , Doukala , Sahraoui and more so u have to be ready lol
Alifbaa i dont think so all of our country men treat all the womens this way but only some of them , they need little bit to get sexual teaching in life thats all , step by step :)
So if some do treat women wrongly so that mean u have to change ur clothes ? Strange ! LOL , everyone has his personnality so if yours strong enough to convice that men or help him out to understand that could help and if u think u have to wear what we are wearing then go ahead :)
Peace & Love .Of Course we got freedom and democracy :) just u cant feel it if u are a stranger thats all :)
I've just come back from a week in Marrakech and Essaouira and found that when I was with my (female) friend I had virtually no hassle, when we went out on our own we both had quite a few blokes come up and whisper things to us while we were walking, usually along the lines of "hi how are you" but one did say something rude. On the whole, neither of us had hardly any hassle and thought all the reports are ridiculously overblown. We both wore long sleeved shirts and long trousers or skirts all the time and wore a little make up as well - as other posters have said it's really hard to imagine why you would wear skimpy tops and things. Tourists who were wearing skimpy clothes seemed to get hassled constantly in the Medina, whereas we didn't at all.
that's a nice thought, but having lived here for awhile, I can tell you that despite the fact that some Moroccan women can get away with wearing whatever they want, foreign women are subject to harassment ten times stronger. And of course it's not all Moroccan men who perpetrate this, but if we assume that at least half do (and it sure seems that way in Meknes), then that's a lot of harassment.
I can't feel freedom and democracy because I'm not Moroccan? Gee, I'll bet the Nichane journalists, who are Moroccan, aren't feeling it so much right now either. Neither is Aboubakr Jamai, who has apparently just left this free country.
I love Morocco, my friend, but please consider the fact that tourists are coming to Morocco to enjoy their time, not fend off hordes of Moroccan men.
I wore long trousers or skirts at all times and usually vest/thin strapped tops but with a loose cotton shirt over the top and always had a pashmina/scarf at hand. If I was on top of the tourist bus, at a rooftop terrace restaurant or somewhere quiet I would strip down to the vest top to soak up the gorgeous heat of the sun. When on the streets I'd wear the loose cotton top over the vest, and if I felt I was being particularly looked at I would wrap the pashmina around my shoulders. There were other women wearing a lot less and looked quite comfortable but I also saw women who were walking around hunched with arms crossed across their chests and looking very uncomfortable - I can only imagine they were on their first walk through the Medina.
I wasn't unduly harrassed, none of the men touch, but I found that some them can give a look that is so penetrating it feels like they're more than touching. It's quite unpleasant, paticularly when coupled with whispered comments or even just a sort of "tsk" sound. Unfortunately it's all done so slyly , softly and quickly that my boyfriend never saw it happen and for a time he thought I was being silly and over-reacting by wrapping myself up in layers and layers!!
Hope this helps!
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i spent 7 months in morocco.
i am a single women in my early 30. i spent 7 months in morocco. the people r so friendly there. and willing to help you with whatever u need help with. but be carefull when buying in markets, they also think that if u r an american u r also rich they will cheat u out of paying for stuff. so be carefull of that. also do not go out at night time alone. it is wise to have someone with you specially if u r in the outer citys. even in the big citys always have someone with you. i have been out alone at night. it is ok at times but then others it is not. this is why i say it would be nice to have someone with you. and if anyone is wanting to put henna on your hands do not let them. they will charge u a large amout of money. just to do it, specially in rabat. beware of the henna ladies.lol other then that the culture is pretty laid back. nice place to be. nice people. but they r curious and will watch this is harmless. dont be afraid to explore new places and have new experiences. i would not change this for the world. i had a good time. good time spent. i wish everyone well also. i will be going back soon inshallah.
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morocco culture,moroccan food,morocco food,moroccan cuisine,morocco beaches,moroccan meal,beaches in morocco,moroccan culture,hercules cave,hercules cave morocco
Moroccan travel company that provides private guide
Hello, I am an American female co-owner of a Moroccan travel company that provides private guides. (I won't post my information here b/c I don't want to self-promote.) I have been to Morocco dozens of time and in my first visits in my mid-twenties alone when I was a lawyer in NYC. In general, the city is as safe for women as an average mid-west city in the US. The key difference, as many people have stated, is that people will approach young women alone, and they must just ignore them and keep walking no matter how persistent or friendly they are. The generally harmless, but annoying and a waste of time. This occurs mainly in the large tourist areas. It is a beautiful friendly country, and if there is ever a situation where a young women feels really uncomfortable, she can pop into a cafe, or ask almost anyone to assist her. I hope your daughters all have a fabulous trip. Please do not hesitate to ask me additional questions.
guess I should make that a little more clear -- I am hunting for the NGO to volunteer for a while if they would pay for my TESOL, and help me understand the country better. Then I could go on to work part time helping the entrepreneurs. (It would be nice, though, if I could find a way to work through the NGOs.)
I need to make some money, because I would like to save and eventually go back to school for my Doctorate. (My understanding is that college is only $500 a term.)
I don't want to be on Disability money forever, but I want to do some good in the world while this check can still follow me overseas, while it still provides this opportunity to not be as dependent on money, to do something that matters --to help people who have felt as I have felt, struggling to make something of themselves, yet crushed down every way they try. This is something I could do, insha'allah, that would empower both parties at one time.
So if you know any organizations that could help me accomplish these goals, I would be ever grateful.
morocco culture,moroccan food,morocco food,moroccan cuisine,morocco beaches,moroccan meal,beaches in morocco,moroccan culture,hercules cave,hercules cave morocco
guess I should make that a little more clear -- I am hunting for the NGO to volunteer for a while if they would pay for my TESOL, and help me understand the country better. Then I could go on to work part time helping the entrepreneurs. (It would be nice, though, if I could find a way to work through the NGOs.)
I need to make some money, because I would like to save and eventually go back to school for my Doctorate. (My understanding is that college is only $500 a term.)
I don't want to be on Disability money forever, but I want to do some good in the world while this check can still follow me overseas, while it still provides this opportunity to not be as dependent on money, to do something that matters --to help people who have felt as I have felt, struggling to make something of themselves, yet crushed down every way they try. This is something I could do, insha'allah, that would empower both parties at one time.
So if you know any organizations that could help me accomplish these goals, I would be ever grateful.
morocco culture,moroccan food,morocco food,moroccan cuisine,morocco beaches,moroccan meal,beaches in morocco,moroccan culture,hercules cave,hercules cave morocco
American woman who suffered an injury
I am an American woman who suffered an injury (though I am reasonably mobile) and I now receive a small Disability check ($700/month), which I believe would go about twice as far in Morocco as here. I have a degree in English and Communications and hope to earn my TESOL as well. In addition, I will be studying French, Arabic and Darija, during the next 18 months or so before I plan to go over.
While I am told I could easily get a job in one of the better-paying schools, I would prefer to work with adult entrepreneurs -- business people who didn't have the money to attend the better schools, who would like to more fluently market their goods and services to Americans on the worldwide web.
(My Disability check would enable me to work at a lower rate for people who couldn't afford the higher rates that other people must charge, but I can only work part-time because I tire easily.)
Does anyone know an NGO that would like to make use of my skills and interests, that could provide me with the TESOL certification?
And is my understanding correct, that $700 ($630 after money exchange rate) is enough to live on in Morocco?
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While I am told I could easily get a job in one of the better-paying schools, I would prefer to work with adult entrepreneurs -- business people who didn't have the money to attend the better schools, who would like to more fluently market their goods and services to Americans on the worldwide web.
(My Disability check would enable me to work at a lower rate for people who couldn't afford the higher rates that other people must charge, but I can only work part-time because I tire easily.)
Does anyone know an NGO that would like to make use of my skills and interests, that could provide me with the TESOL certification?
And is my understanding correct, that $700 ($630 after money exchange rate) is enough to live on in Morocco?
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to move over to Morocco
I said before does this mean he could then stay if it went wrong?
Trouble is - once he gets over here he may just become a lazy so and so having his gf slaving for him, this has been known to happen.
In reality, unless she can support him or he has some extra-ordinary skills unheard of in the UK he will not be granted entry, even if they were to marry in Morocco; this is my hope anyway as we have far too many stragglers here already.
How about if she were to move over to Morocco and become his wife and live there for ever more?
I am not sure where to find out this information, but my daughter (early 20's) has had a Moroccan boyfriend for about 2 years and goes over regularly to see him. If they were eventually to marry and he came here, and things did go wrong would he be able to stay then in the UK, or would he have to return to Morocco?
I have met and stayed with him many times and he is very 'normal', works hard, has a nice family and they get on very well he is quite laid back and they laugh alot, BUT I would just like to be more sure as although my daughter has nothing in her name here as such, the only thing he would gain is moving to the UK,
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Trouble is - once he gets over here he may just become a lazy so and so having his gf slaving for him, this has been known to happen.
In reality, unless she can support him or he has some extra-ordinary skills unheard of in the UK he will not be granted entry, even if they were to marry in Morocco; this is my hope anyway as we have far too many stragglers here already.
How about if she were to move over to Morocco and become his wife and live there for ever more?
I am not sure where to find out this information, but my daughter (early 20's) has had a Moroccan boyfriend for about 2 years and goes over regularly to see him. If they were eventually to marry and he came here, and things did go wrong would he be able to stay then in the UK, or would he have to return to Morocco?
I have met and stayed with him many times and he is very 'normal', works hard, has a nice family and they get on very well he is quite laid back and they laugh alot, BUT I would just like to be more sure as although my daughter has nothing in her name here as such, the only thing he would gain is moving to the UK,
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two weeks holiday in Morocco
My boyfriend and I , had two weeks holiday last April in Morocco, which we spent 4 days /3 nights desert tour . It was a great experience because we had the chance to see a completely different way of living as well as landscape. Our Guide Mohammed speaks berber , Arabic, English ,frensh, Italian ,and he provides us with sufficient information about the country, people ,culture, religion, he also informed us what to do and what to avoid during our stay in morocco . We spent a precious moments with him . We visited the most wonderful places in Morocco ,Marrakech, kasbah Ait ben haddou , ourzazat, valley rose,gorge dades, valley todra ..After that he took us to the desert where we ride camels and spend the night in a camp under incredible starry sky …our desert experience was absolutely great!Our trip ended up in Fes . I would highly recommend him to anytraveller who would love to discover morocco in depth. Email is probably the best way to contact Info@tripstomorocco.com
A part from that a great choice!
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A part from that a great choice!
Cathymorocco culture,moroccan food,morocco food,moroccan cuisine,morocco beaches,moroccan meal,beaches in morocco,moroccan culture,hercules cave,hercules cave morocco
when good time to visit morocco?
October is a good time as the heat would have diminished somewhat, should be around 20-24C but one can never predict as temperatures at this time have reached 34C.
Whatever age you are you will be hassled in some way or other, by traders who have drones outside waiting for you. If you engage in conversation then you are sunk as they are very persuasive and will have you in their shop quickly enough.
If you do wish to buy something then you can do this in several ways; ask what the price is and then haggle from one third asking price, or less if you dare, and take it from there.
You could go into an artesenal which is type of co-operative with generally fixed prices but these are usually highly inflated anyway to cater for the groups of tourists who are led in by their guides. This will at least give you an idea of what prices are like although they vary enormously from one trader to another.
Language should be no problem as many people here speak English although you may have a problem with some taxi drivers who only speak Moroccan. Trust me, you will be fine in hotels, shops and restaurants and you may be surprised at how many people do speak English.
Shopping can be a bit daunting but do this yourself and not with a specialist guide who may find all the things you want but will arrange with traders to charge you very high prices so that both he and trader will make a fat profit.
Trips can be arranged through your riad or in any of the agents in Gueliz district which is a populous area for café's resto's, shops, travel agents. Whoever you use, be sure they have adequate insurance to cover you in case of accidents or loss of property. There are many things to see in Marrakech alone such as the world famous Jardin Majorelle which is easy to get to by the small taxis called "petit taxi". Most other notable sites are within the old part of town called the medina; this is where your riad will more than likely be located although the medina covers a very large area.
Outside of Marrakech you can go long distance to Dades Gorge or up to the mountains with spectacular views.
I can send you a list of typical trips from Marrakech if you like, I just need your e-mail
.morocco culture,moroccan food,morocco food,moroccan cuisine,morocco beaches,moroccan meal,beaches in morocco,moroccan culture,hercules cave,hercules cave morocco
Whatever age you are you will be hassled in some way or other, by traders who have drones outside waiting for you. If you engage in conversation then you are sunk as they are very persuasive and will have you in their shop quickly enough.
If you do wish to buy something then you can do this in several ways; ask what the price is and then haggle from one third asking price, or less if you dare, and take it from there.
You could go into an artesenal which is type of co-operative with generally fixed prices but these are usually highly inflated anyway to cater for the groups of tourists who are led in by their guides. This will at least give you an idea of what prices are like although they vary enormously from one trader to another.
Language should be no problem as many people here speak English although you may have a problem with some taxi drivers who only speak Moroccan. Trust me, you will be fine in hotels, shops and restaurants and you may be surprised at how many people do speak English.
Shopping can be a bit daunting but do this yourself and not with a specialist guide who may find all the things you want but will arrange with traders to charge you very high prices so that both he and trader will make a fat profit.
Trips can be arranged through your riad or in any of the agents in Gueliz district which is a populous area for café's resto's, shops, travel agents. Whoever you use, be sure they have adequate insurance to cover you in case of accidents or loss of property. There are many things to see in Marrakech alone such as the world famous Jardin Majorelle which is easy to get to by the small taxis called "petit taxi". Most other notable sites are within the old part of town called the medina; this is where your riad will more than likely be located although the medina covers a very large area.
Outside of Marrakech you can go long distance to Dades Gorge or up to the mountains with spectacular views.
I can send you a list of typical trips from Marrakech if you like, I just need your e-mail
.morocco culture,moroccan food,morocco food,moroccan cuisine,morocco beaches,moroccan meal,beaches in morocco,moroccan culture,hercules cave,hercules cave morocco
went travelling in Morocco
I am a 20-year-old tall blond American girl and thinking about going on a study abroad program to Morocco next fall. I will be staying in a home stay for the first 8 weeks and am in a program with about 30 other students, but would it be safe for me to travel there? especially given the current situation in North Africa. Any suggestions for precautions I should take if I choose to travel there?
Has Morocco changed since the beginning of all the unrest in North Africa? Has it become more dangerous in any way?
My sister and I are going to Marrakech in October for 1 week, staying in a riad. We are in our early 60s so don't expect any hassle experienced by younger females! I went travelling in Morocco in 1969 with a group of "flower children" and we had a wonderful time. Has anyone any tips for mature ladies with poor French language skills, staying in marrakech, without their unadventurous husbands? Which tours would be suitable (we are a bit arthritic) and what's the best way of organising them? I'm hoping to add to my belly dance outfits - any suggestions much appreciated.
johnk5159 - I'm expecting great things from you!
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travel with a tour company to Morrocco
I was recently chatting with a friend who went to Morrocco 5 years ago. She traveled by back pack with another girlfriend, who was asian.
Horror stories.
her friend wanted to try a camel ride, so they met up with a man who offered them. He was recommended by another tourist, a Japanese male who said the guy was really nice, was an artist etc etc.
Anyhow, my girlfriend wasn't interested, but she went with her girlfriend to meet with the guy and agree on a price. the price was $100 for 3 hours.
The asian friend left with the man. Half way through, they are in the desert. The man demands $300 or he will not take her back. She didn't have the money so couldnt agree to it. He left her on the camel and walked off.
She was left in the middle of the desert, with only her sunhat and a bottle of water.
THREE HOURS NO ONE CAME, fortunately, the camel started walking by himself and took her back.
2nd incident:
They were walking in shopping district, it seemed safe as there were shops all around. Four men suddenly appeared and started walking behind them, trying the chat them up. Next thing you know, these men get in between them and separate the two of them. My friend turned around and saw her friend backed up against a wall surrounded by the four men.
Fortunately, my friend is very street savvy and aggressive. She pushed the men aside, grabbed her friend by the arm and yelled, "get outta her".
They walked for about a kilometer and found a small diner that served breakfast, so they went in to order food.
Unfortunately, the four men who harrassed them saw them in there and went in. they sat near them, were tossing bits of paper on their table, and then pulled their chairs right up to the table. My girlfriend tried to tell the restaurant owner to call the cops because they were being harrassed but he did nothing. My friend and her gf left the restaurant without eating their breakfast.
3rd incident:
My gf just checked in and left her knapsack in her room and went out briefly. When she got back, her door was open, the lights were on and her knapsack was gone. She reported it to the desk clerk, and asked him to call the police. She was taken to the jail, the desk clerk was also taken to jail but had to stay in the dungeon of the jail. The dungeon is exactly what it was. Down in the pit, with 50 other men, who were supposedly there for whatever reason, it was cold and dark, no windows. He was there for 3 days. His brother had to bribe the jail guard to give him food and a blanket, but the blanket was coveted by another inmate. There was only one hole in the floor to pee, and another man with a knife owned the hole. you have to pay him to use the whole. He also threatened the desk clerk that he'd kill him if he fell asleep. So the poor guy had to sit propped against the wall trying not to fall asleep. Finally , after 3 days, her court date came up, the Judge was totally corrupt. when the clerk's brother explained what happened to the judge, the judge basically told him if they paid $3000 USD, they would be free. The clerks mother was terrified and was clinging to my gf's arm as their family's livelihood was dependent on getting her son out of jail, and he's innocent...all he did was report the incident to the police. Basically, there is no law, everyone wants a piece of the action, and everyone expects the tourist, who is victim to pay
4 incident:
They met an Italian women who told them her horror story. She had prebooked a cab to take her to the airport early in the morning for an agreed price. half way through, the cab driver demands $600.00 USD or he won't go. She didn't have the money, so he dumps her out in the middle of no where. obviously, she missed her flight.
5.incident:
My gf also travelled met up with an Australian female with blond hair. Although the Australian wore a hat, her pony tail showed. The men were basically hounding her , tell her they want to "f**k her. It was just horrible.
ADVICE, do no travel to Morroco unless you are with a man, either your boyfriend, husband or male friend. If you have to travel alone, wear a wedding band and tell everyone you are married. That may help a bit.
do not travel to Morroco if you are an Asian female because they think you are meek and have lots of money.
The Morroco men leave men alone, so although some men on this blog have commented that it is basically safe, they really don't know how it is if you are a women travelling alone.
So although it may be safe for men, it isn't for women. BIG DIFFERENCE.
GOOD LUCK...BEST thing is to travel with a tour company.
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Horror stories.
her friend wanted to try a camel ride, so they met up with a man who offered them. He was recommended by another tourist, a Japanese male who said the guy was really nice, was an artist etc etc.
Anyhow, my girlfriend wasn't interested, but she went with her girlfriend to meet with the guy and agree on a price. the price was $100 for 3 hours.
The asian friend left with the man. Half way through, they are in the desert. The man demands $300 or he will not take her back. She didn't have the money so couldnt agree to it. He left her on the camel and walked off.
She was left in the middle of the desert, with only her sunhat and a bottle of water.
THREE HOURS NO ONE CAME, fortunately, the camel started walking by himself and took her back.
2nd incident:
They were walking in shopping district, it seemed safe as there were shops all around. Four men suddenly appeared and started walking behind them, trying the chat them up. Next thing you know, these men get in between them and separate the two of them. My friend turned around and saw her friend backed up against a wall surrounded by the four men.
Fortunately, my friend is very street savvy and aggressive. She pushed the men aside, grabbed her friend by the arm and yelled, "get outta her".
They walked for about a kilometer and found a small diner that served breakfast, so they went in to order food.
Unfortunately, the four men who harrassed them saw them in there and went in. they sat near them, were tossing bits of paper on their table, and then pulled their chairs right up to the table. My girlfriend tried to tell the restaurant owner to call the cops because they were being harrassed but he did nothing. My friend and her gf left the restaurant without eating their breakfast.
3rd incident:
My gf just checked in and left her knapsack in her room and went out briefly. When she got back, her door was open, the lights were on and her knapsack was gone. She reported it to the desk clerk, and asked him to call the police. She was taken to the jail, the desk clerk was also taken to jail but had to stay in the dungeon of the jail. The dungeon is exactly what it was. Down in the pit, with 50 other men, who were supposedly there for whatever reason, it was cold and dark, no windows. He was there for 3 days. His brother had to bribe the jail guard to give him food and a blanket, but the blanket was coveted by another inmate. There was only one hole in the floor to pee, and another man with a knife owned the hole. you have to pay him to use the whole. He also threatened the desk clerk that he'd kill him if he fell asleep. So the poor guy had to sit propped against the wall trying not to fall asleep. Finally , after 3 days, her court date came up, the Judge was totally corrupt. when the clerk's brother explained what happened to the judge, the judge basically told him if they paid $3000 USD, they would be free. The clerks mother was terrified and was clinging to my gf's arm as their family's livelihood was dependent on getting her son out of jail, and he's innocent...all he did was report the incident to the police. Basically, there is no law, everyone wants a piece of the action, and everyone expects the tourist, who is victim to pay
4 incident:
They met an Italian women who told them her horror story. She had prebooked a cab to take her to the airport early in the morning for an agreed price. half way through, the cab driver demands $600.00 USD or he won't go. She didn't have the money, so he dumps her out in the middle of no where. obviously, she missed her flight.
5.incident:
My gf also travelled met up with an Australian female with blond hair. Although the Australian wore a hat, her pony tail showed. The men were basically hounding her , tell her they want to "f**k her. It was just horrible.
ADVICE, do no travel to Morroco unless you are with a man, either your boyfriend, husband or male friend. If you have to travel alone, wear a wedding band and tell everyone you are married. That may help a bit.
do not travel to Morroco if you are an Asian female because they think you are meek and have lots of money.
The Morroco men leave men alone, so although some men on this blog have commented that it is basically safe, they really don't know how it is if you are a women travelling alone.
So although it may be safe for men, it isn't for women. BIG DIFFERENCE.
GOOD LUCK...BEST thing is to travel with a tour company.
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American female traveling currently in Marrakech
Hello All,
I am a 25 year old American female traveling currently in Marrakech. I have to say that i always feel safe here, however it has been difficult to get around at night without being hasseled. Be back at your hotel or riad at or before 11p. I can't stress that enough unless you don't mind having 4x the amount of approaches by men as normal. if they try and speak with you and follow you, just say "laa" which is "no" or laa shookran." i keep walking no matter what. it is not appropriate for a male to touch you either. hand shakes are okay, but no other type of physical contact. if a man touches you inappropriately just say "aib!" (ayeeb) which is "shame." if you stand and talk with a man for too long, people will begin to stare. be mindful of your surroundings and just use common sense. so NOT be out too late, otherwise more men will see your being out late as an invitation to talk to you.
i try to be polite at first, but if they aren't getting the hint i don't feel bad about walking away. if the man is persistent then walk into a crowd of women or a shop. Older men and women will usually look out for you or give you directions without asking for anything in return. Moroccan people are great as is Marrakech, but like any other city it has it's own underbelly. Just use common sense. Don't wear skimpy clothes, keep your legs and shoulders covered, always keep on you the number of your hotel or riad in case you need to call them to have someone pick you up (my riad had this). So Marrakech is a beautiful place and the good outweighed the bad so far. If you are apprehensive about where to stay, where and how to shop, where to eat, and suggestions or other comments about visiting Marrakech, either alone or with others, feel free to email me.
cly234@nyu.edu
morocco culture,moroccan food,morocco food,moroccan cuisine,morocco beaches,moroccan meal,beaches in morocco,moroccan culture,hercules cave,hercules cave morocco
I am a 25 year old American female traveling currently in Marrakech. I have to say that i always feel safe here, however it has been difficult to get around at night without being hasseled. Be back at your hotel or riad at or before 11p. I can't stress that enough unless you don't mind having 4x the amount of approaches by men as normal. if they try and speak with you and follow you, just say "laa" which is "no" or laa shookran." i keep walking no matter what. it is not appropriate for a male to touch you either. hand shakes are okay, but no other type of physical contact. if a man touches you inappropriately just say "aib!" (ayeeb) which is "shame." if you stand and talk with a man for too long, people will begin to stare. be mindful of your surroundings and just use common sense. so NOT be out too late, otherwise more men will see your being out late as an invitation to talk to you.
i try to be polite at first, but if they aren't getting the hint i don't feel bad about walking away. if the man is persistent then walk into a crowd of women or a shop. Older men and women will usually look out for you or give you directions without asking for anything in return. Moroccan people are great as is Marrakech, but like any other city it has it's own underbelly. Just use common sense. Don't wear skimpy clothes, keep your legs and shoulders covered, always keep on you the number of your hotel or riad in case you need to call them to have someone pick you up (my riad had this). So Marrakech is a beautiful place and the good outweighed the bad so far. If you are apprehensive about where to stay, where and how to shop, where to eat, and suggestions or other comments about visiting Marrakech, either alone or with others, feel free to email me.
cly234@nyu.edu
morocco culture,moroccan food,morocco food,moroccan cuisine,morocco beaches,moroccan meal,beaches in morocco,moroccan culture,hercules cave,hercules cave morocco
American girl studying abroad in Rabat
I am a 20 year old American girl studying abroad in Rabat in the fall. I have blonde hair and my parents want me to dye it black or brown in order to blend in more with Moroccans. Is this a good idea or just foolish?
Also, I have heard a lot about how it is best to dress conservatively, wearing long skirts and shirts that cover cleavage and shoulders, but what do people wear to the beach? What is acceptable at beaches in Morocco? Is wearing a bikini or even a one piece unacceptable?
If I want to get toiletries once I get there, will items such as contact solution, shampoo/conditioner, feminine products, etc. be available to buy for reasonable prices?
I am quite concerned. A former student of mine, who is 18, met a Marroccan man at Disney in October. She is shy, has never had a boyfriend and has a big heart. She has seen him several week ends and they are already engaged. He wants to get married next month (we are in January). I also found out his visa expires in June. I need some input as it scares me to death!
25 years ago, I worked at Epcot in guest relations. I noticed a pattern... Before going back home, they all try to get married to stay, or so it seemed.
I know there is a tax for receiving packages in the mail, does anyone know how much that might be? How long does it take for packages to get to Morocco from the U.S.?
I assume you are in USA in which case I have no idea what your immigration laws are but in UK he would not be allowed in now unless his intended spouse could support him.
It has happened in the past whereby the male will loaf around the house each and every day whilst she goes out to work; he then invited his friends round drinking the best whiskey she could afford to buy them.
Far too many girls of a younger age go to Morocco (partic resorts like Agadir) and fall for the pool or "animation team" guy and immediately call him their "boyfriend" going back as often as possible. When these girls have gone back home, how many others has he I wonder?
It is a disgrace that such spongers were ever allowed into the UK with no skills and the best job they could aspire to would be stacking shelves in a supermarket.
Responses to these questions will be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance!
morocco culture,moroccan food,morocco food,moroccan cuisine,morocco beaches,moroccan meal,beaches in morocco,moroccan culture,hercules cave,hercules cave morocco
Also, I have heard a lot about how it is best to dress conservatively, wearing long skirts and shirts that cover cleavage and shoulders, but what do people wear to the beach? What is acceptable at beaches in Morocco? Is wearing a bikini or even a one piece unacceptable?
If I want to get toiletries once I get there, will items such as contact solution, shampoo/conditioner, feminine products, etc. be available to buy for reasonable prices?
I am quite concerned. A former student of mine, who is 18, met a Marroccan man at Disney in October. She is shy, has never had a boyfriend and has a big heart. She has seen him several week ends and they are already engaged. He wants to get married next month (we are in January). I also found out his visa expires in June. I need some input as it scares me to death!
25 years ago, I worked at Epcot in guest relations. I noticed a pattern... Before going back home, they all try to get married to stay, or so it seemed.
I know there is a tax for receiving packages in the mail, does anyone know how much that might be? How long does it take for packages to get to Morocco from the U.S.?
I assume you are in USA in which case I have no idea what your immigration laws are but in UK he would not be allowed in now unless his intended spouse could support him.
It has happened in the past whereby the male will loaf around the house each and every day whilst she goes out to work; he then invited his friends round drinking the best whiskey she could afford to buy them.
Far too many girls of a younger age go to Morocco (partic resorts like Agadir) and fall for the pool or "animation team" guy and immediately call him their "boyfriend" going back as often as possible. When these girls have gone back home, how many others has he I wonder?
It is a disgrace that such spongers were ever allowed into the UK with no skills and the best job they could aspire to would be stacking shelves in a supermarket.
Responses to these questions will be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance!
morocco culture,moroccan food,morocco food,moroccan cuisine,morocco beaches,moroccan meal,beaches in morocco,moroccan culture,hercules cave,hercules cave morocco
planning on going to Morocco
My 23 year-old daughter is planning on going to Morocco in June with her male, Parisian friend, who is a Moroccan citizen.
Is it safe for young, American women to travel there? how will she be received if she is traveling with a local? She looks very American!
The only obstacle I can see if the friend has a Moroccan passport, if so he will not be permitted to share the same room with your daughter (assuming they are bf and gf).
If on the other hand they both have european passports there will be no problem and they can go about their routine without hindrance.
There will be the inevitable glance, particularly by the older generation wherever they go.
Americans are just as welcomed as any other visitor to Morocco.
During holiday periods, tourist destinations (in partic. Agadir) in Morocco are full of silly British girls getting all hormonal at the sight of randy Moroccan boys, soon to be their "boyfriend".
morocco culture,moroccan food,morocco food,moroccan cuisine,morocco beaches,moroccan meal,beaches in morocco,moroccan culture,hercules cave,hercules cave morocco
Is it safe for young, American women to travel there? how will she be received if she is traveling with a local? She looks very American!
The only obstacle I can see if the friend has a Moroccan passport, if so he will not be permitted to share the same room with your daughter (assuming they are bf and gf).
If on the other hand they both have european passports there will be no problem and they can go about their routine without hindrance.
There will be the inevitable glance, particularly by the older generation wherever they go.
Americans are just as welcomed as any other visitor to Morocco.
During holiday periods, tourist destinations (in partic. Agadir) in Morocco are full of silly British girls getting all hormonal at the sight of randy Moroccan boys, soon to be their "boyfriend".
morocco culture,moroccan food,morocco food,moroccan cuisine,morocco beaches,moroccan meal,beaches in morocco,moroccan culture,hercules cave,hercules cave morocco
Morocco is very nice place to visit
Hi! Morocco is very nice place to visit for the tourist especially for women . Women do not need to worry while traveling in Morocco . Morocco is very safe place to visit for women. people of the morocco are very friendly and you do not need to worry about them at all .
My husband and I are looking at going to Marrakech & Agadir with our 3 children (3yrs-12yrs) for our summer holiday this year, however after reading some of the reviews, I'm not completely convinced it is the right place to take children as there doesn't seem to be a lot to do (I don't think taking a 3yr old sightseeing would be much of a holiday for any of us!!) and as we are restricted to term time holidays, it's going to be end of August when we go. Any comments would be appreciated.
Whilst a riad in Marrakech would be the better choice for adults, the children would be better accommodated in a tourist hotel but you will have to research which will have play schemes.
Would somewhere like Costa del Sol have good services for 3 yr olds? Personally I don't think anywhere will be "better" for minors unless you opt for a trip to Disney Land.
May is still good as far as weather goes and not as hot as July/Aug which would be unbearable for small children.
Near Marrakech is a place called Oualidia which is a theme park frequented by tourists and Moroccans and some hotels have a free shuttle service.
Maybe spend less time in Marrakech, which is a destination more for the cultural experience, and more in Agadir which is a package-tourists heaven with great beach where all can relax and kids can play footie, a small zoo (which I advise peole NOT to visit as it has less than adequate facilities for the wildlife), many inexpensive restaurants, hotels with good child facilities, a very large covered souk (market) and more.
morocco culture,moroccan food,morocco food,moroccan cuisine,morocco beaches,moroccan meal,beaches in morocco,moroccan culture,hercules cave,hercules cave morocco
My husband and I are looking at going to Marrakech & Agadir with our 3 children (3yrs-12yrs) for our summer holiday this year, however after reading some of the reviews, I'm not completely convinced it is the right place to take children as there doesn't seem to be a lot to do (I don't think taking a 3yr old sightseeing would be much of a holiday for any of us!!) and as we are restricted to term time holidays, it's going to be end of August when we go. Any comments would be appreciated.
Whilst a riad in Marrakech would be the better choice for adults, the children would be better accommodated in a tourist hotel but you will have to research which will have play schemes.
Would somewhere like Costa del Sol have good services for 3 yr olds? Personally I don't think anywhere will be "better" for minors unless you opt for a trip to Disney Land.
May is still good as far as weather goes and not as hot as July/Aug which would be unbearable for small children.
Near Marrakech is a place called Oualidia which is a theme park frequented by tourists and Moroccans and some hotels have a free shuttle service.
Maybe spend less time in Marrakech, which is a destination more for the cultural experience, and more in Agadir which is a package-tourists heaven with great beach where all can relax and kids can play footie, a small zoo (which I advise peole NOT to visit as it has less than adequate facilities for the wildlife), many inexpensive restaurants, hotels with good child facilities, a very large covered souk (market) and more.
morocco culture,moroccan food,morocco food,moroccan cuisine,morocco beaches,moroccan meal,beaches in morocco,moroccan culture,hercules cave,hercules cave morocco
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