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Things You Should Know Before Travelling To Morocco

 Morocco, a country of beautiful landscapes and buzzing cities, has a lot to offer to any traveler. It makes a great choice forindividual trips. If you are from the West, it would be useful to read about the Moroccan culture and traditions just so you know what to expect.

To make it easier for you, we have listed some things that you should know before travelling to Morocco to make the visit hassle-free:

Non-Muslims are not allowed in most mosques

99% of the population is Morocco is Muslim. There are very limited mosques which are open to non-Muslims. One example is the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. It’s huge and it can hold up to 105,000 worshipers.Traditional mosaic tiles, carved cedar and heated flooring make it a thing of beauty. Another option is the Ali Ben Youssef Madrassa that has been turned into a museum. It features an impressive Islamic design.

Moroccans are multilingual

It is amazing how the Moroccans switch languages in the middle of the sentences.  Although Arabic is the official language of the country but on the streets, you will find the locals speaking Marija only. Foreigners are mostly addressed in French. If you know Spanish, it will be easier for you to communicate with people in Tangier. Don’t worry, you will find people who can communicate in English too. But one phrase that you might want to learn is ‘La,Shukran’ meaning ‘no thank you’.

Moroccans love cumin

Moroccans just love to cook food with cumin. It used so much that it’s placed next to salt and chili on the table. It is a pungent powder that is used to flavor all types of food.

Trains are cheap yet comfortable

Travelling in trains may not sound convenient but it actually is. Choose first class that has reserved seats and air conditioning system. They have 6-seat compartments. Make sure you bring some snacks for the journey. Oh don’t forget, it is customary to share your food with others.  If you are travelling to small towns, it is best to travel in Mercedes sedans.

Don’t just stick to Marrakesh

Yes, Marrakesh is a popular tourist spotand it’s full of exciting places but there is so much more out there in Morocco waiting to be explored.  For example, Fez is famous for food and the annual Festival of World Sacred Music. If you want to have a taste of Sahara, explore Merzouga’s sand dunes riding on camels.

Chefchaouen is home to Rif Mountains. If you want to contemplate in isolation, MoulayIdriss is the best choice. It is the holiest town in the country.

Watch out for the customs!

Don’t ever use your left hand to do anything that’s socially important, especially in public. Moroccans believe that left hand is unclean.

The smaller regions in the countryside are quite conservative than the big cities. To avoid any trouble, women are recommended to dress modestly.

What about drinks?

Don’t worry, there are plenty of bars in the country from where you can find alcohol. Yes, Morocco has nightclubs and bars too so you won’t get bored at all.

Check out more about morocco desert tours.