Morocco by JR

Morocco by JR-

During 2019, I had the great fortune to travel to a most amazing country, Morocco, North Africa. I went with a Tour Group of 30 ladies and a wonderful Tour Guide and it was a spectacular trip. I am sharing some of the tips we utilized for anyone going to Morocco who is looking for best practices.

Morocco is north west tip of North Africa. It is a muslin country and the citizens are conservative in nature. The locals are very friendly and do speak English.

Weather- Weather in Morocco varies but on average its about 68-70. It is most beautiful in the spring to travel (mid March to May) as the environment and landscape is green and lush. The fall (September to October) is very good as well, that is when we went and overall the weather was very pleasant. Bring layers so that you can shed them when the weather changes.

Food- The food is good with some dishes I recommend are the Moroccan Salads, White Harira Soup, Couscous and anything made in their famous Tanjines (lamb or chicken and vegetables)-delicious. They are well known for their breads, many places all bake their own breads daily. We took a Moroccan Cooking class in Marrakesh, highly recommended! You have instructors to guide you through it and you get a pre-tea demonstration and post eating your class product up on the roof afterwards!

Transportation- Many cabs and tuk tuks (a motorcycle motorized cab) are readily available and affordable. Be advised, they all drive fast and the locals do not wear helmets nor for their children.

Money-Before you depart we recommend you go to a bank that has international currency and purchase the Moroccan dirham, its the official monetary currency of Morocco. There are places to convert there but just be cautious of conversion rates and only do so at a hotel or reputable location. They do have bank machines in Morocco that will dispense dirham and convert for you.

Souvenir -As far as what to buy and bring home to your family and friends, the following were items we all purchased and brought home- lamps and lanterns, pillows with tassels, earrings, Tagine, Moroccan rugs, Moroccan leather, Moroccan oil, and pottery.

Geography- I recommend you visit Marrakesh (bustling city) and the Atlas Mountains (quiet country). As far as hotels go we stayed at the Riad de Princesses in the city and the Kasbah du Toubkal up in the Atlas Mountains both fantastic spots! We did not get to Casablanca but that is a very desirable spot (and good beer by the same name as well).

Activities- I recommend the Moroccan Cooking class, Hot Air Balloon ride and Camel ride in Marrakesh and hiking and massages at the Kasbah. The backdrops and scenery are absolutely stunning, gorgeous mountains in Atlas it looks like a scene from Game of Thrones, I can see now why they did some filming there. Don't forget to try a Hammam Spa, very unique experience. Lastly, do not leave without trying an herbal shop in Marrakesh, lots of great items there.

Clothing-dress is casual and while women are not required to cover up with a hijab or burqa, they do ask that women do not dress provocatively. You will stand out and potentially be a target as a tourist if you do so, so I recommend blending in and embracing the culture like we did and wear one.

For anyone like myself who loves all things Morocco, belly dancers, sashes and tassel pillows and lanterns everywhere, Morocco will not disappoint. It is mythical and has all of the mystery and ambiance of movies like "Casablanca" and more. You will NOT be disappointed.

I hope these tips help and that you truly love this country as much as we did. It was and is absolutely spectacular! Safe travels everyone!

-Morocco by JR