As a woman, it is important to dress modestly, covering the shoulders and the knees. Women dressed with exposed knees and shoulders were glared at and some comments and cat calls, made. Also, as a woman, it took some time to get used to being ignored when ordering food and coffee. It is a little thing, but annoying. Also, negotiating when shopping was a bit of a grind because the vendor was almost always male, and there was usually a condescending and patronizing attitude. So be patient with that, and if you can speak French, do so, I found that people were more accommodating when I spoke French. Taking pictures of local women is really frowned upon, and were told not to do it at all. Patience is required in many situations as I found that most people did one task at a time, rather than take two or three requests. Again patience was key. If you can be patient, the people are very nice.
Why would any woman pay to go somewhere to be treated this way? Are you all mad or just trying to prove a point? What happened in 2018 to the two Scandinavian girls who wanted to travel to prove that the rest of the world was safer for women than their home countries should be a warning but is ignored. Their trip and their lives ended appallingly in Morocco. Clearly from your description, women are still not welcome or respected.
Thank you Nancy you are a very cultured woman I see and you are fast and willing understanding the muslim culture. I love and respect you so much. Most just like to critisize our habits and do not bother to understand our culture. The only place to show your skin is the beach or on a rooftop out of vieuw. I like to sunbathe on the rooftop. And women need to be harsh and strict when you come so the sellers can see you aren't a pushover and need to oblige your commands. If ever disrespected in any shape or form please get a police officer as soon as possible to resolve the matter for you 🙏 Love to see you sister Take care please
@@ttblade I am not "mad". I travelled only on a private bus, with a group of 11, along with a local driver and a local (male) guide. I am not trying to prove anything, I simply wanted to add my experience from my recent travel. I travel to other places so I can learn more about the world around me, and hopefully seek to understand and appreciate our differences as humans. When I travel to other countries that have different culture to my home country, I try to be respectful of the norms and values of the place I am visiting. I feel that if we all did a little more of that, we would be better off. There are many places in the world I won't travel to, as my research indicates that they are not safe for either men or women. And really, any country of the world can be dangerous if you go into unsafe areas, alone, at night, for example. There are good and bad people everywhere. I added my comments because this video was authored by a man who did not have the same experience as I did. The way I see it, I, as one person cannot change the norms and culture of another place. I can seek to understand and make decisions about future travel from that point. Morocco seeks to increase tourism, so if I say what my experience was, and choose not to go there again, perhaps others will feel the same as I do, and there may be some movement on the part of the country to change. And for what it's worth, suggesting I have mental health issues ("are you mad?") is just rude.
I'm Moroccan, born and bred in Italy and living in the UK. I must say, you sir have become an expert. Every info you gave was accurate, the first thing dad does when we arrive in Morocco is go and buy me bottles of water, I just can't. I'm from Casablanca and Essaouira, welcome any time! And you certainly should visit the northern cities of Chefchaouen, Tangier, Asilah, and the beautiful beaches of Martil! Lots of love 💗
A ver.. explicame algo que no he entendido... Naciste y trabajas en Europa y te consideras marroquí? Tú pasaporte es marroquí? Puedes decir que eres de origen marroquí, que hablas árabe en casa y con tus amigos. Pero si te consideras marroquí. Es que no estás integrado en Europa. Después os quejáis de que os miran con suspicacia.
@@africanogloriosus7474 “Integrada*” yo me fui de Italia con 19 por culpa del racismo. La integración no es una calle de sentido unico, las cosas que me pasaron en Italia y que les pasan a mi familia a diario, no harían que nadie se sintiera en casa. Yo ya dejé de quejarme, si ya no sirve de nada, mi padres estan volviendo a Marruecos por más de una razón.
the reason why moroccan food is not commonly found in restaurants is because for moroccans traditional food is what you'll be eating at home (and it usually tastes the best when homemade) and so when going out you'd want to eat something you usually don't have in your house, like pizzas and burgers! there are still however many great places for traditional moroccan food that you will certainly find in every moroccan city
It makes sense, but it's of course not what a visitor wants (assuming they want to eat local like me). As you say there are still great places around though and I hunted for them, and will do again next time!
@@ChrisKermis Niceee,glad to see more people come to visit our beautiful kingdom, also have you heard about the city "Ifran" you should visit nd make a vid about it but in the winter wen its snowing :)
We have just completed a 10 day 4x4 roadtrip from Marrakesh over the Atlas mountains to the Sahara and back. Our Morrocan guide was very good. When arriving we didnt wait at all, our pre arranged taxi didnt turn up, but we decided to take the first available taxi, it seems always available at a very good price. With buying carpets or anything you have to negotiate. The roads are fairly safe to travel on. Our accommodation over the 10 days were excellent. So it seems that the well known Riads/hotels etc are very good. The food was amazing. You could eat very healthy here as a tourist, from that point of view better than in some European countries. Good meat Tajines, and lots of vegatables if you want to. Very nice bread, dont expect however a big brekfist. All in all a very comfortable experience, not a lot of dont’s and do’s. If you rent a 4x4, expect it to be a used 4x4 full of scrathes and dents, but at returning it, no problems experienced with trying to accuse you of causing the damage. Actually a very tourist friendly country. And yes, dont try to film people, you wont get any good shots. Agree with the variety. If you are tired of the Europian buss and cities, Africa is it. And Morrocco one of the best. Not too extreme , but sufficiently different with very good landscape in the desert and Atlas mountains, and very interesting historic villages. No game, thats in Southern and Eastern Afica. And for that reason for me a must see destination/adventure but not one that I will necessarily teturn to. Its tiring. Very hot. And no dune driving, only sand. Guides are not trained for dune driving like in Namibia.
I’m glad you mentioned the photo weirdness. My wife is Moroccan and we visit her family regularly and I’m still taken aback by that happening. I’ve started using a Nikon which is much smaller than my mobile and it draws less attention. One thing you missed is the rising crime rate, especially in Casablanca, for Moroccans and tourists. Purse snatching is on the rise, frequently by scooter based teams, so close to the body bags are best, especially properly worn backpacks. But but be aware of your surroundings is the best rule.
Indeed. As a morrocain local person, i confirm almost all of The informations on this video .. this video would be very helpful for everyone willing to Travel to Morocco
I’m planning a trip to Morocco in November and I really love the honesty and detail you include in your videos. SUPER helpful so thank you for taking the effort to make these videos 😊 🙏
Hello. From a Moroccan. I wouldn't advise tourists to spend all their stay in cities such as Marrakech or the Sahara desert. There's a lot more in the north of Morocco. such as Anger and Ottoman or Casablanca and Rabat and Nador,houceima... Give the North a chance it's much more beautiful and open-minded. Especially for parties people go to Casablanca and have a lot of fun there Just try to avoid the poor neighborhoods of course. Marrakesh is an ancient-minded city so don't be surprised when you see a lot of catcalling and modesty. In Casablanca and Rabat and the other big cities, there are no standards for modesty no one cares.
Thanks Chris for the detailed and to the point advice when visiting Morocco - Really helpful to have a little knowledge when visiting a new Country - Much Appreciated
Having lived here in Morocco for over 34 years, I can confidently say that tipping is not ALWAYS expected. Moroccans, in general, do not tip. Tipping, which is voluntary, takes place in places considered as being upmarket and high class. That said, following a few days of touring with an official tourist guide and vehicle driver, tipping, to show appreciation, is normal practice.
If you don't mind me asking, why did you choose Morocco for the last 34 years? I've seen loads of RU-vid videos of people touring Morocco (some good, some not), and it seems absolutely beautiful. I know there are a number of American, English, and European ex-pats that live there permanently (not sure how that's done). Just curious what your reason for staying there so long might be.
@@meadmaker4525 The reality is Morocco chose me. Having suffered from severe depression from the lack of sunlight in the UK, I tried living and working in one or two countries before ending up in Morocco, where I found everything fell into place. I had the good sense to learn the language, culture and history, in order to understand how things and the people are. Knowledge is the key to survival in any society. Many foreigners have chosen to live in Morocco. To cut to the chase, there are more negatives in other countries than in Morocco. Morocco is peaceful, with stunning natural scenery, and everyday sunshine. The Moroccan people are easy to get on with, most are friendly and respectful towards non-Moroccans.
@@georgericketts-hf4euCan I ask you please, is it still worth visiting Marrakech during Ramadan - eg will historical sites, museums etc be open during the day? Thanks
@@johnwaine56 I can confirm the usual tourist attractions the likes of museums, etc are open during Ramadan. However, they close daily at 3 p.m. Staff need time to go shopping and go home to prepare the breaking- of- the- fast meal.
Nice video, really enjoyed it. I lived in Meknes and Rabat twenty years ago, so it was very interesting to hear about your recent experiences. Sad to hear that it's not as easy to find authentic Moroccan food! Cheers, keep the videos coming.
Petit taxis are for short, local journeys. Often they can't operate outside of a specific area such as the central area of a city. You may also find that the taxi will pick up other passengers on the way to your destination, that's standard practice, but don't expect it to mean a reduction in your own fare! Grand taxis are for longer journeys such as from one town to another, or from the city centre out to the suburbs or the airporr to your hotel. You can also get shared grand taxis, which operate more like buses. You can either pay for the whole taxi to yourself if you're in a rush, or wait for the taxi to fill up with other passengers. This will obviously be cheaper as you only pay for your share, but you may be waiting around a while for the taxi to fill up.
@@ChrisKermis No problem! I also meant to add that the Al Boraq TGV starts all the way up in Tangier, and heads down to Rabat and Casablanca. And the fact that non-Muslims can't enter mosques is a ruling put in place by the French when Morocco was a French colony, rather than by the Muslim population. As you know, it's generally OK for non-Muslims to visit mosques in many other Muslim countries (I think Tunisia also has that restriction?). I believe there are two mosques in Morocco that can be visited though, there's one other somewhere, but off the top of my head I can't think where it is!
me?? taking notes. thanks for adding more details about the cabs and mosques. Kindly ask you about women attire. Restricions on cover head and etc. And can man wear shorts? sorry first time going to Morocco. i found this chanel amazingly helpful.
@espartanam Morocco is a fairly liberal country when it comes to dress. As non-Muslims can't enter mosques there's no need for women to cover their heads, and yes, men can wear shorts. You will hardly ever see local men wearing them (certainly above a certain age) but you as a tourist will be fine. That said, women shouldn't overdo their dress if they want to avoid attention. If you're in a beach town, don't think you can walk around town in your beachwear, save that for the beach and ONLY the beach, especially if you're wearing a bikini! Generally you don't need to dress conservatively with everything covered, just be mindful of dressing too provocatively if you want to avoid unwanted attention. Shorts (but not TOO short!) and t-shirts are fine.
Just want to add... 1. Tipping isnt expected outside of medium-nice restaurants (and even then you dont have to) - they will just chance it with foreigners (taxis and touts). Tip if you want but if they're cheeky enough to ask then don't. 2. They always (95% of the time) have change just refuse to leave until theyve given you all of it, more time theyll pretend not to realise theyve shortchanged you so check everytime dont let them get away for it even if its only 1-2 dirhams because it empowers them to do it to the next person. 3. never rock up to the train station 20 minutes before a train thinking youll be able to buy a ticket and board in that time, more often than not theres a long queue to get a ticket and the train will be sold out, book a day in advance (online or in station). 4. Finally believe me - if they work with tourists theyre going to be making a lot more than the average person so for the love of god don't pity them and pay more because i assure you they are likely living more than comfortably. This video is pretty much spot on. Youll love morocco its amazing - just so long as you stay vigilant. I know plenty of people who hated their time there because they let people walk over them wherever they went.
for the moroccan food, it's takes time and therefore it will be more expensive, also we do lot of coking , after all we are conserve country which mean we have the family standers like to have dinner in one table is a must, but tajin is just a small part of our food, you need to try "Bastilla, Mrozia and so many stuff "
@33 12 he is just saying its a big part of our culture to have family meals, as much as possible, depending on peoples lifestyles, work etc, some families all eat from one big shared dish.
Thank you Chris. A lot of sound advice. We are coming to Morocco in our Campervan in a few weeks, End of April 2024) and In our travels to many countries, or Wise Card has been brilliant. Has worked in virtually all ATM's, and we cash out directly in local currency, avoiding the very poor rates of the banks who's ATM it is. We are Wheely Living... :)
Hope you can make it there sometime soon and that you have a great trip! Check out some of my other vids on places in Morocco if you need some more inspiration 🙂
bro about friday everthing is closed just from 12;00 to 15,00 , 3hours cause at this time people go to pray after that everything turn to be normal and its the best time to try morrocan couscous
If you are a women just make sure you talk strong and have confidence when talking to everyone. My Mastercard dis work in different places just ask in your riad or hotel the best atm for safety issues as well. Enjoy Morroco!
I been to Marco. In 2013 from the airport right to my hotel. I didn't get to see the life however that was almost 11yrs ago. I'm sorry but I want to move there I love ❤ this place. I can't wait to visit/ live there. thank you for this video. I'm also Muslim inshallah I enjoy the culture ❤
Just bought tickets for March to fly into Marrakesh and stay for two days. Really stoked to see this place. Thanks a lot for putting the tips together.
I've visited the Kingdom five times and have had wonderful experiences. I agree with everything you say here. Morocco is a wonderful experience but travelers (especially from the USA) should do their research and use reputable travel companies.
im from the USA travelling europe right now and im thinking of my last stop being in marrakesh in mid february. can you elaborate on why (especially from USA)?
I enjoyed the history, architecture, atmosphere, FOOD!, and Moroccan hospitality. You will be treated as a guest wherever you go. They really like Americans. There are riads that will make you feel like a prince. @@cm123456789ful
Thanks, glad it’s useful! I see on your channel your last videos are in Taiwan. I’ll check them out later as I’ll be heading there in a week. Given you a sub in the meantime as a like minded RU-vidr 🙂
Excellent advice. Save this gentleman’s tips. Write them down. They are important. As an aside, if you’re staying for extended time along the southern coast of Spain, you can easily take a ferry to Moroccan ports like, Tanger Med, and Tanger. The Spanish ports of Malaga, Tenerife, and Algeciras have all day ferry’s to and from Morocco. Best part is the on board customs is easy.
If you have to take the bus, try to take CTM, It is the best bus service by far, choose CTM premium if it is available, CTM premium goes from Casablanca to Marrakesh and a few other destinations.
Thank you so much Chris. Very insightful of what to expect. I was so looking forward to do filming and taking drone shots in the beautiful landscapes of Morocco. Apparently it’s not that easy thing to do 😢. Appreciate for the heads up
pretty much honest and straight to the point report. But, there so much to say about this complicated industry. one important advice that I should give to all tourists is to get an official guide. you will not only save money and a probable headache. .but also you will have an easy access to the so many hidden gems that most tourists don't get the chance to see and experience.
Thanks for watching! It can be a nice option sometimes, Independent discovery is awesome but I had a guide myself for half a day in Fes Medina. I didn’t have much time and knew I would quickly get lost and waste time saying no to fake guides. Well worth it in that case.
Good information❤This is why I only go Japan, Taiwan, South Korea, Hong Kong and Singapore. Asian people are nicer, welcome foreigners & less crime too‼️
Hi Chris, thank you for this video. and hope to see you back again in the kingdom. Cheers. Apologies for the now and then misfortune but as you said it's universal. I had also some similar experiences in the UK.
@@ChrisKermis maybe I will. I am just watching your 3 day tour to Sahara video. My only concern is that it might be a bit chilly at night though at the end of November compared to when you were there. Unless they give some good blankets to cover in those tents.
Fair point, probably not a great thing this time of year. I would totally go to the cities though. Looked at going back myself for Christmas/New Year but any flights are insane prices then.
@@ChrisKermis I just read on a desert tour provider that many Americans and Europeans are going there to celebrate New Year, so that might be the reason. I hope you find a good place to celebrate New Year. Thanks for the info.
morocco can be a hassle especially marrakech try some costal towns theyre a bit more relaxed and laid back essouria is only 3 hours away and well worth a visit
I used to see people on the side of the road in Africa selling fruit...nothing priced, so as a tourist you knew they would rip off. They were very quiet. Another clever vendor had little bags each one $1 ...she was selling like crazy.
I've been to Morocco many times. Excellent video. One alternative to toilet paper is to do as the locals do. It takes getting used to, but can be more hygenic in some ways. Just keep your left hand out of the communal food bowl if you are invited to someone's house. 🙂
Well besides all great info that I’ll use in my Marrakech trip next month , I really need to know you ray-ban model name ! Would appreciate if you can share it
General Lyautey was the first Resident-General of the French Protectorate of Morocco from 1912 and it was he who made the law forbidding non-Muslims to enter mosques. This was after unacceptable behaviour by drunken French troops.
