Morocco is a country in the north of Africa, whose political capital is Rabat and the economic capital is Casablanca. The area is about 445,050 km2 and it is inhabited by about 34 million persons. Concerning language, Arabic is the official language. There are also some popular spoken languages such as dialectal Arabic, Berber, French, and Spanish. Many Moroccans can really communicate in English, German, Italian and other languages. English was recently introduced to high school curriculum. Morocco is a Muslim country and the local currency is the Moroccan dirham. If you are to make a phone call, the calling code to dial first is +212 …and if you are to use any electrical machine in Morocco, keep in mind these information: the electrical voltage is 220 V; sockets take 2-pronged European style plugs. As for health, no vaccination is required for Moroccan travels, but it is advisable to drink bottled water.
THE ENVIRONMENT:
Morocco extends over the northwest corner of Africa from Riff Mountains and Mediterranean Sea, and south down the Atlantic Ocean. The high Atlas Mountains divide the Sahara desert from fertile flat plain. we like to think of it as a country of forest, long-wide Atlantic beaches, colorful markets, ancient medina’s, desert with golden sand, acres of olive, organ and orange trees, wide exotic palmeries, snow capped mountains, golfing, cycling, trekking and more… Many guide books recommend visiting & touring Morocco from March to May and then again in September and October.
CLOTHING:
In many big cities like Casablanca, Marrakesh, Agadir… etc. Moroccan men and women often get dressed in very stylish way just as people do in Paris, London, new-York…nevertheless, in small cities and especially in villages, tourists are recommended to do as the do in Rome, meaning to follow the local traditions where men and women cover up themselves. For a camel trek, any loose trousers are advisable. In mountain, especially high Atlas Mountains, you need to be equipped with jacket and sweater, and long pant that is advised for desert and during a night spent in the high atlas. For winter, a warm coat, a hat, gloves, and wool socks are necessary.
CULTURE:
Morocco is one of the most opened Islamic countries-but showing respect to its customs is important. The first thing a tourist will face is the restriction of not being allowed to get inside the mosques for Non-Muslims. It is a pity as many mosques features are beautiful of constructions and design. However, there is an exception as you can get into Hassan 2 mosque in Casablanca. During Ramadan, the believers fast each day until the sunset, which will be a challenge for tourists as many shops and restaurants for food and drink will be closed. No worries …still you can find places where you can eat during the day, places that are opened especially to serve tourists. In Islamic countries like Morocco, it is forbidden to drink alcohol. But being a favorite destination for tourists and to let them have fun, Morocco has banned the restriction and the alcohol is served in bars, hotels, and restaurants. In spite of not being allowed to offer alcohol to Muslims, many young and westernized Moroccans drink alcohol. Please also cover up to show respect and be respected.
FOOD AND DRINK:
Moroccan cuisine is delicious. it offers a great variety o f traditionally made dishes. Such as Herrera, tagine ,mechoui ,tangia which is famously served in Marrakech ,couscous ,fresh salads and fruits, kefta which is a lamb or beef stew ,hot steaming bread and other delicacies. Coffee with milk is highly served along with mint tea that will the first beverage to have everywhere you go as it is a sign of hospitality. Alcohol is available and can be purchased at supermarkets, and hotels (but it is difficult to buy is during Ramadan as all shops might have an order to be closed). Also, you can try some fresh juices, especially orange juice that is being squeezed at the entrance of the market and squares like jama Lfna is advisable to buy water bottle as drinking from the tap may cause some inconvenience.
SAFETY:
Morocco is a safe country and crimes are not big issues because people apply the law. There used to be some stealing in beaches and big cities. In villages, people are trustworthy and you do not have to worry if you have to leave your luggage somewhere for a bit. If people suggesting guide’s services, they should display an official badge issued by the local authorities.
