Know the Moroccan Culture Before Traveling

As with travel to all locations in the world it is important to respect the social and cultural norms of Morocco. This will ensure that you are welcomed and get the best possible reaction from our hosts.

Morocco is mainly Muslim in its religious observation and as such many of its customs stem from Islamic beliefs. You will certainly notice the 'call to prayer' in Marrakech and up in the mountains at Imlil. The Moroccan staff will also disappear at various points during the day to pray. Here are a few cultural tips to keep in mind while preparing for your next Morocco cultural tours:

Greeting: The usual verbal greeting would be "Salam oo-alley koom" or just "Salam" and in most cases a handshake. The normal reply would be "Oo-alley koom salam". Sometimes people will touch their ear or kiss their hand directly after shaking your hand, as a mark of particular respect or affection. A lot of Moroccans, especially those who regularly deal with tourists will simple say "hello", "Bonjour" etc based on their assessment of where they think you are from!

Conduct: Try to conduct yourselves in a generally calm and reasonably quiet manner. As a guide simply observe the local Moroccans around you and try not to be significantly louder or more boisterous than them.

Affection: Public displays of affection between a male and a female, such as kissing, is not considered appropriate and should be avoided. You may notice Moroccan men walking or standing holding hands; this is normal between good friends and does not indicate anything beyond platonic friendship.

Food: It is common for food to be eaten with your hand from a communal tagine or dish. You may therefore be offered a bowl to wash your hands in before eating. In this situation you just hold your hands over the bowl and the host will pour water over them to allow you to wash.

Haggling: As with many nations, there is a culture of negotiating prices in Morocco. If there is a price marked on an object then it is almost certainly inappropriate to negotiate on the price unless perhaps you are buying many items at once. However, if the price is not marked then you may begin the fine art of haggling.

Taking Photos: When you’re walking through the markets, be careful about taking photos of people and shops. Unless you are purchasing something, they may get angry at you and even demand money for the photos.

By following these useful tips your Morocco vacation tour will be definitely a memorable one. Last but not the least; choose your Morocco tour package wisely.

Eight Things to Know Before Visiting Morocco

The number of people visiting Morocco is increasing every year. If you are visiting Morocco as a photographer, you will certainly have a busy day as there will be lots of things that allure to capture in your camera.

So you are planning for Morocco private holidays? Let me guide you through a few tips that will help you make the most of your Morocco tour.

Dress Properly:

Overall men can dress as they wish, but females should attire more conservatively. If you are not dressed properly, you may get harassed especially in crowded places, while visiting mosques, you should cover down even your ankles and wrists. For the ladies travelers out there, it certainly aids to have a scarf or shawl in their bag.

Currency & cost:

More renowned stores will receive credit card, but the street vendors, cabs and smaller markets won’t. So, be prepared with local currency.

Keep change with you:

Moroccan cab drivers hardly have change when you require it. To ignore overpaying, always keep change with you.

Learn to bargain:

If you are shopping in the medinas or markets, you must know how to bargain. Selling is like their national job and bargaining is part of their tradition. If you can spend some time while bargaining you’ll get the items for a minimum of 25 percent less of the starting price. If a deal doesn’t suit you, get away – they will call you multiple times to negotiate a deal.

Fridays are Holidays:

Don’t forget that Morocco is a Muslim nation, so be alert about their holidays otherwise you may be there when everything is closed. A majority of the shops & attractions are closed on Friday.

Watch your wallet or money bag:

Though most of the Moroccans are honest and friendly, but you should be cautious about pickpockets especially in the crowded places or the medinas.

What languages do they speak?

Moroccans speak a blend of Berber, Arabic, French and English. You will be ok with English in most of the larger towns, but you will possibly require a translator in the rural areas of the nation. Therefore, you may even find a translator in your Travel Packages to Morocco.

Visiting Mosques:

If you are thinking to visit Moroccan mosques, you may be out of luck unless you are Muslim. Mainstream of mosques are off-limits to non-Muslims, with the exemption of the grand Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. They’re still gorgeous to take pictures from outside.

Overall, Morocco is a lovely nation and private tours to Morocco will certainly give you the best sight of it.

4 Hidden Gems to Check Out During Your Morocco Vacation

If you’re planning for a trip to Morocco you will be really overwhelmed in terms of places to visit. However, there are many hidden gems that you must include in your Morocco tour package. Since I have travelled Morocco quite few times I can be your guide towards those hidden gems in Morocco. So, let’s just explore:

Rabat:

Although this is the administrative and political capital of the country, it has not reached its peak as a tourist destination, making it often ignored by many tourists. Rabat is a place that is not as crowded as more popular cities, yet it can offer an amazing experience. It is laidback and serene. One of its best attractions is the medina. Its narrow alleys are filled with distinct attractions. It is also home to various art galleries and Kasbahs.

Ifrane

If you are after Morocco cultural tours this is the place to explore. Known as The Switzerland of Morocco, this is another destination in the country that you should explore. Situated at an altitude of 5,460 feet above sea level, it is distinct from many of the other places that you can see in the country. It is known for its red-roofed homes, and snowbound winters. It is also home to some of the best lakes in Morocco. It has gained reputation as the playground of the rich, but there is actually something for everyone in this piece of Moroccan paradise.

Scarabeo Camp

Camping is dreaded by many because they always assert that it means being devoid of a luxurious experience. In Scarabeo Camp, on the other hand, you can have a different experience. This is the perfect place to try glamping. It offers an authentic desert camping, which is one of the best ways to see Morocco from a different light. It is located in Agafay Desert, a sanctuary that is located just a few minutes away from Marrakech and only a 40-minute drive from the airport.

Tafraoute

Known as The Mountain City, it might be small and unexciting for some, but if you do your research, you will actually realize that it is indeed a promising destination. It is especially popular for mountain climbers. You can also see a variety of markets and hand-sewn shoes are amongst the most popular products that they are selling. It is cozy and has a small size, making it perfect for walking. You can spend the entire day just wandering around, getting lost, and having endless discoveries.

So what are you waiting for? Look for the best travel Packages to Morocco and check out these hidden gems for ultimate adventure.

4 Things to Do During Your Morocco Private Holiday

So you have planned your next vacation to Morocco and wondering what you should be doing while visiting to this amazing desert land? Let me guide you through what you should be doing during your Morocco private holidays.

Amble through the splendid Blue Streets of Chefchaouen :

Placed in the heart of Morocco’s Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is actually quite wonderful to look at. The avenues & most of the constructions in the medina are painted in brilliant sky blue color. The mountains that you can witness at the end of each paved avenue are rugged & imperial. The crystal-clear mountain light adds an enthralling touch to this place. It could be your favorite place to amble, shop as well as sip in the Moroccan mint tea.

Learn how to cook classic Moroccan foods:

The Moroccan cuisines have been influenced by Arabic Andalusian cuisine, native Berber cuisine, Middle Eastern cuisine and Turkish cuisine brought by the Arabs. French influence came afterward and the infusion between classical French and Moroccan cuisines is at the heart of the several of the fine dining experiences in Morocco nowadays. Many Riads provide cooking classes in Fes, Marrakech and Essaouira. Usually a half day cookery workshop will provide you the opportunity to buy fresh ingredients from the bazaar, and then produce a classical tagine & a couscous dish. It is a wonderful way to soak yourself in Morocco’s culture.

Steam in a classical Hammam:

In Morocco the hammam is an open steam bath. Hammams happen to be the only place in Morocco where people could come to take bathe, since a private bathroom in an apartment or home was a luxury that many couldn’t pay for. Nonetheless, getting a fine scrub at any local hammam is an excellent cultural experience that you shouldn’t miss if you are after luxury Morocco holidays. It provides female tourists in particular an excellent opportunity to meet & chat with local women. There’re high-end hammams in Riads & luxury lodges that provide western-style massages & scrubs, whilst still employing local stuffs.

Spend a night in the Sahara Desert:

The Sahara desert of Morocco is an enthralling place to spend a night or two. The most renowned region to discover is the awe-inspiring Saharan sandscape in Merzouga. The Erg Chebbi dune may seem familiar if you have watched Hollywood movies like The Mummy or SATC2. The best way to explore the sands of Sahara is through camel, though 4x4's are renowned if you consider yourself a professional driver.

Last but not the least, private tours to Morocco is the best way to explore what this land has to offer. So, look for a tour operator that is specialized in scheduling private tour.

How to Make the Most of Your Morocco Tour – Some Safety Tips to Consider

You are unlikely to face any real physical risk in Morocco, but the minor crime & harassment need you to stay aware – more than other nations. However, by following some basic rules you not just avoid negative situations but also make your holiday tours in Morocco a special one.

Don’t walk around the street alone at night – though walking in well-lit & active areas can be all right, but be cautious walking at night. Small crime is plentiful here in the medinas, especial against the outsiders.

If you are a woman, don’t walk alone – a female alone will allure too much unnecessary attention from male, an amplified possibility of being chased, and the chance of groping. Don’t walk alone at night, especially you’re a female.

Outfit conservatively - you must know that Morocco is a conservative Muslim nation, and it isn’t right to put on short outfit. Keep your legs, shoulders and arms covered (particularly if you’re a female) to ignore any unnecessary attention.

Avoid flashy ornaments – This is a priority especially in a nation where theft is normal and people will see the ornament as an indication f wealth & thus try to trick you in shops or steal from you on the streets.

Don’t carry valuables - since pickpockets and muggings are usual, take the minimum you require when you depart your hotel. Don’t carry your passport with you- leave it in the hotel.

Watch out for scams: if someone asks you into their shop for tea, they are going to use that as a pretext to get you to buy something and, thanks to the engrained psychological idea of reciprocity, you’ll probably give in. Don’t let anyone ask you to write a letter or read a postcard that their “cousin” sent to them in English/French/whatever your native language is. It’s a ruse to get you into their store and wear you down. Same with letting someone put henna on your hand. Once these vendors have you, they will be relentless about you trying on clothes, buying something, or giving them money. Say “no thank-you” and walk away.

Always negotiate taxi prices up front — always negotiate the price for taxis before you get in, as prices are going to be substantially inflated when you arrive at your destination.

To make the most of your Morocco tour package, please consider these safety tips and be on the safe side. Morocco is a beautiful county and you will definitely enjoy your stay here.

A Private Tour to Morocco – Top 5 Places to See

A morocco trip is undoubtedly one of the most sought after itinerary that you can find almost any travel enthusiasts list. Morocco is also a voyage into a timeless, serene world of magnificent coastal villages, colourfully painted towns that hang to hillsides & isolated outposts sheltered by fairytale adobe citadels. It’s no surprise that Morocco has been visited by writers and artists for decades and persists to allure all who visit. If you are getting ready for your Morocco private holidays, below mentioned are a few places to explore.

Marrakesh Medina:

The lively & pulsating buzz of Marrakesh Medina entices a great number of tourists. The old metropolis is entered from the massive plaza of Djemma el-fna Square where it looks half of the town congregates all through the day and into the sundown to hang out with the traditional musicians, stall vendors, random acrobats and snake charmers. Once you enter the Medina, you get into a world of maze-like boulevards & shopkeeper hustle. It is an experience filled with colourful & noisy local-life and shouldn’t be missed during your private tours to Morocco.

Hassan II Mosque:

Hassan II Mosque is a luxury sign not just of the town, but also of Morocco itself. This modern mosque (finished in 1993) doesn't do things by halves. The decoration detail covering every centimetre of the mammoth 2 ha site took 10,000 artisans to complete. Intricately carved marble pieces, vibrant mosaics and zellige tile details pay tribute to traditional Islamic architecture, and yet still manage to feel contemporary.

Fes el Bali:

Alongside Marrakesh, Fes is another important cultural destination of Morocco. Fes el Bali is a genuine tangle of place where it is nearly unfeasible to not to get lost. You must ask your tour operator to add this place in your Morocco tours.

Tangier:

The most European of all Morocco’s cities, Tangier feature an interesting & slightly depraved part in twentieth century literary history, and this part is what allures a great number of travellers here. This is the town that encouraged popular works like Paul Bowles' "The Sheltering Sky" and William Burroughs' "Naked Lunch".

Volubilis:

Morocco’s #1 Roman relic is a feast for history aficionados with a grab of exceptional mosaics still buried where they were uncovered. This location is also full of stumbled pillars & temple relics, standing as reminders that even the greatest realms eventually fall down. The hilltop site enables the relics to lord over the neighbouring countryside, adding to the passionate environment of lost pride. This sightseeing attraction can be visited easily as a day trip from either Fes or Meknes.

Keep Weather & Culture in Mind While Packing For A Morocco Trip

When you tour Morocco, your trip will encompass nights out in the town, camel trips in the desert, trekking through the mountains and obviously morocco cultural tours. As you pack for your Morocco vacation, you’ll require to take into account what activities you would love to do, how your outfit will be from a cultural point of view and what season you’ll be touring.

Summer:

If you’re traveling during the summer, expect warmer temperatures and trekking paths cleared of snow, but higher elevations will be cool year round. In many countries, it is commonplace to pack shorts and a tank top, but don't do that for your Morocco vacation tours. Instead, pack lightweight pants and shirts (linen works well) but avoid wearing any revealing clothing. Many Moroccans are Muslim, and exposing too much flesh via short shorts, short skirts, and tank tops is not appreciated, especially during daylight hours.

Women would be wise to dress in at least knee-length pants or skirts until evening. In the evening, the nightlife of Morocco may warrant a looser dress code, though this will depend on where you are going and how cosmopolitan a city is. Also, take care to leave local clothing to the locals. While some Moroccans wear djellabas or hip-length tunics, those who live in the city tend to wear Western-style clothing.

Winter:

Winter travel will be confined mostly to cultural and city tours, since most of the trekking excursions are not possible due to snow. In winter months, heavier pants and shirts, or even layered clothing, will be most comfortable. Packing layers will allow you to remove or add clothing as needed. Days in the desert will be warm, but plan accordingly for cool evenings and nights in the winter. It is also important to note that the country's rainy season begins in November. During the rainy season it is best to have full rain gear.

Autumn:

Autumn in Morocco is still fairly warm, though temperatures in the mountains begin to drop to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. During the day, a pair of lightweight pants and shirt may be comfortable, but at night you will probably want a jacket when temperatures reach below 50 degrees. The density of the jacket will depend largely on where you plan to travel in the country.

In the desert, nightly temperatures can be much cooler than in the city. If you decide to trek in the mountains, a heavier coat is a good idea. When choosing your clothing you may want to avoid white.

Spring:

Spring is one of the wettest seasons in Morocco. The country's rains continue through the end of March, so pack a rain jacket and shoes that are comfortable when wet. An umbrella may be handy in the city, but they are burdensome in the mountains. You should also expect cooler temperatures in the spring.

Your Morocco tour package should be designed while keeping all these above mentioned points in mind. So, look for a tour operator that can customize you’re their package according to your needs.

Nine Reasons Why You Should Include Morocco in Your Next Vacation List

The striking North African nation of Morocco can be as refreshing or as adventurous as you wish it to be. If you are wondering why you should look for Morocco excursions, you have landed on the right page. Below mentioned are 9 reasons why you should include Morocco in your next vacation list.

Beaches: Get yourself pampered on a wide range of beaches on Morocco’s Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts. Go for renowned resorts like Agadir or serene spots like Qualidia and Asliah.

Cities: Morocco’s royal cities sparkle with old forts, medinas and busy souks. Top choices encompass Fes, Rabat and Marrakech.

Riads: Relish a flavor of typical Moroccan warmth while staying at a riad, which’s generally a fort or massive home that has became a luxury boutique hotel.

Desert: Head towards the Sahara desert on the back of a camel or 4-wheel drive excursion. Reserve a day trip or hang out in a Bedouin tent.

Mountains: It doesn’t matter wherever you select to hang out in Morocco, the mountains follow. The atlas range sprints through the middle of the nation, whereas the Rif Mountains sweep down to the north-coast.

Food: Have you ever tested any Moroccan cuisine? If no, then try tajine, a deliciously flavored stew employing fish, chicken or lamb. Couscous dishes are also admired. You will certainly ask for more after savoring any of these dishes.

Shopping: No luxury Morocco holidays will be accomplished without experiencing the shopping extravaganza in this North African country. Get lost in the souks of Tangier, Casablanca and other towns as you bargain for brightly outlined ceramics, baskets, carpets, jewelry and leather goods.

Spas: Soak into the classical steam baths discovered in towns all through Morocco. Luxury resorts like Essaouira have contemporary spas with a wide range of treatments.

History: Regal cities like Tetouan feature old medinas that have barely transformed in thousands of years. Move to the desert and you will witness exceptional Kasbahs built into rock face walls.

A vacation in Morocco is never short of adventure and exhilaration. Whether you prefer to lodge in luxury hotel in Morocco, or sleep beneath the star in an isolated Berber village, there is an ambiance of mystique & magic, where you’ll take away incredible memories of snake charmers & camel trains to minarets and Kasbahs.

Last but not the least, private tours to Morocco is the best way to experience the culture, history and everything this country has to offer. So, choose a private tour operator!