Myths and Facts about Morocco

In Morocco, bargain hunting is expected. In spite of the fact that it's noble to pay the asking price, bartering is still encouraged. Marrakech merchants are especially excellent businessmen. They comprehend the worth of their products in Europe and the United States and will ask for them. You will definitely have a more local experience if you find a welcoming entrepreneur. At first, they might laugh when you attempt to barter because they realize it is not a Western custom, but if you find a friendly vendor, you will certainly be able to participate.

Restaurants in Morocco are plentiful, and many of them are Westernised, but you should seek out recommendations from a concierge, a friend, or a guide who will not steer you astray. It's a fact that Moroccans in smaller cities still eat with their right hand, use their left hand for hygiene, and have done so for centuries. Even if the food is extremely fresh, Westerners may be exposed to unfriendly bacteria during the preparation process. 

There are a number of ways to get out of Marrakesh, which is only 30 kilometers from the Atlas Mountains (a great place to explore) and La Vallée de l'Ourika (a great place to hike). You can eat tagine at one of a dozen restaurants where the River Ourika flows down from the High Atlas Mountains. The image, in which you can dine while your feet are cooled by the water as it flows over the stones, is really cool. 

It is beneficial to know a few words in Arabic when visiting Morocco, as Arabic and Berber are the country's official languages. Likewise, knowing French will be useful since Morocco was a French and Spanish protectorate. The people of Chefchaouen (a village in Morocco where a lot of people speak Spanish) will be able to understand Spanish. 
A few words to know in Arabic:

Assalam (hello);

Bslama (goodbye);

Choukran (thank you);

Afak (please);

m’n fadlek (excuse me)

Although the medina shopkeepers are enthusiastic salespeople, you are not required to purchase anything just for looking. A small tip is always appreciated upon departure, and you should not initiate bargaining unless you are seriously interested in buying. 

Having an offline Google Map is never a poor choice when visiting Morocco, particularly in medinas, which are notoriously complex. Fes's medina alone is said to have 9,000 streets and 40,000 cul-de-sacs. It's a great idea to get a map from your hotel and write down its location. Maintain some research and have a general notion of what you'd like to see/buy, or seek the assistance of a prearranged guide. If you get lost on your own, seek assistance from a nearby business and tip them for their help. 

It’s a large country, and temperatures vary across it, so it stays pleasant all year round. Whether you want to visit the desert or anywhere else, bring something warm, as it will get cold after dark. In addition, if you visit outside of the summer season, a light jacket or scarf will always be useful for the evenings. 

It's important to double-check prior to visiting Marrakech because not everything is closed for Friday prayers. There are supermarkets, banks, hotels, and even some shops in the medina that will remain open as usual, except in Fes, where most of the souks and cafes will be closed on Friday. 

Bottled water is safer to drink, but hotels properly sanitize filtered water for guests, which you may bring along with you to stay hydrated if you are venturing into the desert. 

You may use a credit card at large stores, hotels, and restaurants, but this country is cash-friendly if you are buying souvenirs from the souk. Having dirhams will come in handy when tipping, especially if you are there. Remember that Morocco is a cash-only country, so you will only be able to obtain dirhams by being there. Keep in mind that Euros, US dollars, and Pound sterling are the most widespread currencies. Budget carefully, as anything you don't spend once you leave Morocco cannot be exchanged. 

While petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded areas, most visitors experience a trouble-free stay. The Moroccan government invests in maintaining security, particularly in popular tourist areas. As with any travel destination, it's important to exercise common sense and follow safety precautions.

However, public consumption of alcohol is frowned upon, and it is respectful to adhere to local customs and avoid drinking in public places.

Other popular dishes include bastilla (a savory pastry), harira (a traditional soup), and a wide selection of salads and sweets.

Although there is no strict dress code, dressing modestly out of respect for local customs is advisable, especially when visiting rural areas or religious sites. Generally, covering shoulders and knees is considered appropriate for both men and women.

While luxury experiences are available, budget travelers can also find affordable hostels, guesthouses, and local eateries. Public transportation is reasonably priced, and many tourist attractions are free or inexpensive to visit. By planning ahead and being resourceful, it is possible to explore Morocco on a budget.