Travel Safety Tips: Morocco

The predominantly Muslim nation of Morocco adheres to certain traditions that may be quite foreign and possibly uncomfortable for new visitors to the North African country. Although Morocco is a frequently visited destination with heaps to offer to curious travelers, there are a few safety tips to keep in mind when making the trip.

Cover Up

In Moroccan culture, women are covered in clothing from head to toe. Therefore, female visitors should heed this cultural norm to avoid unwanted attention from men. Long skirts or long pants plus a simple shawl should suffice in the Moroccan heat.

Bring a Friend

Women travelers are also advised to avoid traveling alone to Morocco. Although Morocco is considered fairly safe and welcomes hordes of visitors, women report feeling safer with a fellow traveler. The tiny corridors of the medina and the overbearing salespeople are slightly less intimidating with a familiar face by your side.

Hire a Professional Guide

With the abundance of unofficial guides roaming the streets of the medinas, it can be difficult to discern between legitimacy and fraudulence. Ask your hotel concierge or visit a tourism office before you start to wander. Getting a lay of the land before you set off on your own can prevent headaches later on.

Tap Into Your Common Sense

Wearing a money belt, keeping your valuables locked in a safe and avoiding dodgy passageways after sunset are travel rules that can be forgotten in the potentially overwhelming new culture. The same rules you use while traveling to other destinations should be applied in Morocco, as well.