Morocco Destination Guide

Overview of Morocco Morocco lies just under nine miles (14.3km) from Spain across the Straight of Gibraltar, the only place where the Mediterranean Sea mixes with the Atlantic Ocean. The mixing of the two seas which lap Morocco's coast serves as a useful allegory for understanding the North African country's rich history. Morocco is an elaborate weave of Arabic, Berber, French and Spanish culture which has captivated the imaginations of travellers for the better part of the last millennium; it is this heady mix of old and new which sees contemporary Morocco thriving. Hints of Morocco's turbulent history still pervade daily life, and serve to strengthen its allure. Since the days of the Phoenicians, Morocco has attracted foreign interest from the Romans, Vandals, Visigoths and ancient Greeks until the coming of the Arabs in the 7th century, who brought Islam and the Alaouite Dynasty. European powers have had their day, too: France and Spain battled for control until nationalism triumphed and the Kingdom of Morocco gained independence in 1956, and evolved into the Morocco travellers experience today. For some, the main appeal for visitors to Morocco has always been its balance of the familiar with the exotic. Morocco's seaside cities like Tangiers offer Mediterranean charm; while inland Marrakech thrums with vibrant souks, markets where legendary fine Moroccan crafts are made and sold, and Moorish architectural wonders loom overhead; and Casablanca is the economic centre of Morocco, playing host to an energetic business culture and international trade. However, travellers to Morocco would do well to venture beyond the cities. The Rif Mountains in the north, and the High Atlas Mountains in the heart of Morocco, offer scenes of life in Berber communities where their languages and culture are well preserved. Adventurers will find paradise in mountain ranges which offer skiing on snow-capped peaks, trekking through gorges and fertile valleys, and kayak trips down powerful streams. In the south, the vast, bleak power of the Western Sahara enthrals travellers who choose to journey by camel or 4x4. No matter the particulars of travellers' time in Morocco, they are sure to be fascinated by visions of snake charmers weaving their magic while the call of the muezzins wafts from the ancient minarets. Visitors can expect aromas of mint tea, elaborate carpets and vibrant squares, but they can also expect much more from contemporary Morocco which acknowledges its past while keeping pace with global development and interconnectivity.

Key Facts

Language: Arabic is the official language, but eight other languages are also spoken including Berber, French and Spanish. English is generally understood in the tourist areas, but French is more widely spoken. Passport/Visa: Generally, travel to Morocco does not require a prior visa application; however, travellers should enquire about the specifics from their nearest Moroccan embassy. Also, all foreign passengers to Morocco must hold proof of sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in the country. All visitors who wish to stay for a longer period than their visa exemption allows, must report to the nearest police station within 21 days of their arrival in Morocco. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months' validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources. Currency: The unit of currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD), which is divided into 100 santimat. ATMs are available in the larger cities and towns, but can be unreliable; currency can be exchanged at banks or official bureaux de change, which are also widespread in major towns. Dirhams cannot be obtained or exchanged outside Morocco and receipts must be retained as proof of legal currency exchange, in addition to being the only way to re-exchange money when departing. Major credit cards are accepted in larger shops, hotels and restaurants. Electricity: Electrical current is 220 volts, 50Hz. Two-pin round plugs are in use.

Travel guide by wordtravels.com © Globe Media Ltd. By its very nature much of the information in this travel guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which they're relying with the relevant authorities. Travmarket cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above. Event details can change. Please check with the organizers that an event is happening before making travel arrangements. We cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above.

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Travel to Morocco Overview Steeped in history, spanning miles of Mediterranean and Atlantic coastline, and boasting exciting attractions, Morocco is a sightseer's paradise. Part of the appeal is the inviting climate but there is so much more to this diverse and historically rich country than meets the eye. Within the enchanting medieval medinas of Fez and Marrakech, where snake charmers blow their hypnotic melodies amid the smell of the tanners' yards and the hustle and bustle of the open-air markets, the fascinating and exotic soul of Morocco can really be glimpsed. With Phoenician, Hellenic, Carthaginian and Roman civilisations all having passed through Morocco, it's also worth revelling in the immensity of the country's past by exploring its countless museums, palaces, mosques, tombs and ruins. Furthermore, adventurous travellers can head south to explore the hot desert sands of the Western Sahara, and see breathtaking landscapes which are a privilege to behold; or for a completely unexpected holiday experience, head deep into the High Atlas Mountains for a skiing holiday with a difference. There are exciting 4x4, horseback and camelback treks to enjoy as well as lovely coastlines to explore. Many of the sights around the cities are best explored on foot, but for those planning on criss-crossing the country, trunk-line trains run through the heart of Morocco, connecting over one hundred stations spread out over 1,184 miles (1,907km) of track. Bus travel is also a popular mode of transport. Climate in Morocco Morocco's climate is moderate and subtropical, cooled by breezes off the Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean. The weather is unpredictable and can be changeable, swinging from extreme heat to unexpected cold. The climate is also highly variable according to region and terrain and travellers are advised to check the conditions for the exact destinations they will be visiting. The climate of the northern Moroccan coast and central areas is Mediterranean, with hot dry summers and mild wet winters. In the interior the temperatures are more extreme: winters can be fairly cold and the summers very hot. Marrakech has an average winter temperature of 70ºF (21ºC) and an average summer temperature of 100°F (38°C). In the Atlas Mountains temperatures can drop below zero in any season and mountain peaks are snow-capped throughout most of the year. The winter, between December and February, is wet and rainy in the north of the country; while in the south, at the edge of the Moroccan Sahara, it is dry and bitterly cold. Summer is the driest season. Weather-wise, the best time to visit Morocco is generally in the spring and early summer, between March and May. Alternatively, autumn, occurring between September and November, is also mild and pleasant. Health Notes when travelling to Morocco No vaccinations are required to enter Morocco, although travellers should consider vaccinations for hepatitis A, hepatitis B and typhoid. It is wise to only drink bottled water and to avoid eating uncooked meat. Swimming in fresh water carries the risk of catching bilharzia. Rabies is present, so contact a doctor if bitten. Medical facilities are decent in all major cities but can be extremely limited in rural areas. Health insurance is recommended. All required medications should be taken along in their original packaging, and accompanied with a prescription from a doctor. Safety Notes when travelling to Morocco Violent crime is not a major problem in Morocco and most visits are trouble-free, but there have been some incidents of theft at knife point in major cities and on beaches. Sensible precautions such as avoiding badly lit streets at night should be adhered to. Guides offering their services should display an official badge from the local tourist authorities. Touts and merchants can get quite pushy and confrontational so visitors should be firm but polite when refusing goods or services. Female travellers may attract unwanted attention from Moroccan men, and should take advice before deciding to travel to the country on their own. Customs in Morocco Morocco is a Muslim country and it is best to keep the wearing of swimsuits, shorts and other revealing clothing to the beach or hotel poolside. Women travelling alone will generally be hassled less if dressed conservatively. The country has many smokers, and it is customary to offer cigarettes in social situations. Religious customs should be respected, particularly during the month of Ramadan when eating, drinking and smoking during daylight hours should be discreet as it is forbidden by the Muslim culture. Foreigners have been expelled in the past for alleged proselytising. The giving and receiving of things, and the eating of food, should only be done with the right hand, as Travel guidethe leftby wordtravels.com is considered © unclean. Globe Media Homosexuality Ltd. is a criminal offence, and sexual relations outside marriage are also By its verypunishable nature much by of law.the information in this travel guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which they're relying with the relevant authorities. Travmarket cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above. Event details can change. Please check with the organizers that an event is happening before making travel arrangements. We cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above.

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Duty Free in Morocco Travellers to Morocco over 18 years do not have to pay duty on 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 400g tobacco; 1 litre spirits and 1 litre wine; and perfume up to 5g. Doing Business in Morocco Business in Morocco has been influenced by France and therefore tends to be conducted formally, with an emphasis on politeness. Dress is formal, and women in particular should dress conservatively. Most business is conducted in French, although some English is spoken. It is best to ascertain beforehand what language the meeting will be in, and arrange an interpreter as needed. Visitors are expected to be punctual, though meetings may not start on time. Moroccans are friendly and enjoy socialising; trust and friendship are an important part of business dealings so be prepared to engage in small talk. A handshake is common when arriving and departing. Women may encounter some sexism in business, although this is starting to change. Most businesses are closed on Fridays, and some are also closed on Thursdays. Communication in Morocco The international access code for Morocco is +212. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). City/area codes are in use. Hotels can add a hefty surcharge to their telephone bills so it is best to check before making long international calls. Public wifi is readily available in most major cities and 3G/4G networks offer widespread coverage throughout the country. Therefore, it is advisable that visitors purchase a local sim on arrival. Tipping in Morocco A tip of 10 to 15 percent is expected in the more expensive bars and restaurants, though some establishments do include a service charge. Most services are performed with the aim of getting a few dirham, but aggressive hustling shouldn't be rewarded. Nevertheless, visitors should note that tips are the only income for some porters and guides. Passport/Visa Note Generally, travel to Morocco does not require a prior visa application; however, travellers should enquire about the specifics from their nearest Moroccan embassy. Also, all foreign passengers to Morocco must hold proof of sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in the country. All visitors who wish to stay for a longer period than their visa exemption allows, must report to the nearest police station within 21 days of their arrival in Morocco. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months' validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources. Entry Requirements Entry requirements for Americans: US citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Morocco. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.

Entry requirements for Canadians: Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Morocco. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.

Entry requirements for UK nationals: British citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Morocco. A visa is not required for stays of up to 90 days for holders of British passports endorsed British Citizen, British National (Overseas), or British Subject (containing a Certificate of Entitlement to the Right of Abode issued by the United Kingdom).

Entry requirements for Australians: Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Morocco. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.

Entry requirements for Irish nationals: Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Morocco. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.

Entry requirements for New Zealanders: Travel guideNew by Zealand wordtravels.com citizens © Globemust Mediahave Ltd.a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Morocco. No visa is By its very nature much of the information in this travel guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which they're relying withrequired the relevant for stays authorities. of up Travmarket to 90 days. cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above. Event details can change. Please check with the organizers that an event is happening before making travel arrangements. We cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above.

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Entry requirements for South Africans: South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Morocco. A visa is required.

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Tourist Offices Moroccan National Tourist Office, Rabat: http://www.visitmorocco.com.

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Morocco Embassies In the United States: Moroccan Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 462 7979.

In Canada: Moroccan Embassy, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 236 7391.

In the United Kingdom: Moroccan Embassy, London, United Kingdom: +44 20 7724 0624.

In Australia: Moroccan Embassy, Canberra, Australia: +61 2 6290 0755.

In Ireland: Moroccan Embassy, Dublin, Ireland: +353 1 660 9449.

In South Africa: Moroccan Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 12 343 0230.

Foreign Embassies in Morocco American Embassy United States Embassy, Rabat: +212 0537 637 200.

Canadian Embassy Canadian Embassy, Rabat (also responsible for Australia): +212 537 54 49 49.

British Embassy British Embassy, Rabat: +212 537 63 3333.

Irish Embassy Irish Consulate, Casablanca: +212 522 27 27 21.

New Zealand Embassy New Zealand Embassy, Cairo, Egypt: +202-2461-6000.

South African Embassy South African Embassy, Rabat: +212 537 70 0874.

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Currency The unit of currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD), which is divided into 100 santimat. ATMs are available in the larger cities and towns, but can be unreliable; currency can be exchanged at banks or official bureaux de change, which are also widespread in major towns. Dirhams cannot be obtained or exchanged outside Morocco and receipts must be retained as proof of legal currency exchange, in addition to being the only way to re-exchange money when departing. Major credit cards are accepted in larger shops, hotels and restaurants.

Exchange rate for 1 MAD - Moroccan Dirham 0.10 BMD 0.09 EUR 0.10 USD 0.07 GBP 11.14 JPY 0.13 CAD Bermudan Dollar Euro U.S. Dollar U.K. Pound Sterling Japanese Yen Canadian Dollar 0.10 CHF 0.14 AUD 2.57 UAH 34.56 KZT 154.10 LBP 0.07 LYD Swiss Franc Australian Dollar Ukrainian Hryvnia Kazakhstani Tenge Lebanese Pound Libyan Dinar 0.70 BOB 11.04 NPR 0.04 OMR 0.37 QAR 0.14 SGD 0.85 SEK Bolivian Boliviano Nepalese Rupee Omani Rial Qatari Rial Singapore Dollar Swedish Krona 0.68 TTD 1.02 VEF 4.69 DOP 0.69 HRK 1.91 MXN 60.00 XOF Trinidad Tobago Dollar Venezuelan Bolivar Dominican Peso Croatian Kuna Mexican Peso West African CFA Franc 0.32 PGK 0.10 BSD 0.22 FJD 2.32 HNL 11.31 DZD 121.91 MMK Papua New Guinean kina Bahamian Dollar Fiji Dollar Honduran Lempira Algerian Dinar Myanma Kyat 1.14 BWP 0.34 PEN 70.97 CLP 48.93 AMD 2.47 CZK 2.04 MDL Botswana Pula Peruvian Nuevo Sol Chilean Peso Armenia Dram Czech Koruna Moldova Lei 12.72 ISK 300.73 UZS 0.39 ILS 0.07 JOD 0.03 KWD 3.21 UYU Icelandic Krona Uzbekistan Sum Israeli New Sheqel Jordanian Dinar Kuwaiti Dinar Uruguayan Peso 3.63 MUR 2.92 NIO 0.85 NOK 0.40 PLN 0.38 SAR 14.94 LKR Mauritian Rupee Nicaraguan Córdoba Norwegian Krone Polish Zloty Saudi Riyal Sri Lanka Rupee 3.64 THB 0.38 AED 0.37 BRL 0.41 RON 0.80 HKD 60.13 XAF Thai Baht U.A.E Dirham Brazilian Real Romanian New Leu Hong Kong Dollar Central African CFA Franc 2,299.88 VND 1.43 ARS 0.28 XCD 0.80 GTQ 0.04 BHD 0.10 PAB Vietnamese Dong Argentine Peso East Caribbean Dollar Guatemalan Quetzal Bahrain Dinar Panamanian Balboa 0.15 AZN 319.05 COP 6.99 KGS 28.63 HUF 0.81 TJS 1,400.22 IDR Azerbaijan Manat Colombian Peso Kyrgyzstan Som Hungarian Forint Tajikistan Ruble Indonesian Rupiah 0.91 EGP 121.89 KRW 580.16 PYG 0.43 MYR 55.13 CRC 0.15 NZD Egyptian Pound South Korean Won Paraguayan Guaraní Malaysian Ringgit Costa Rican Colón New Zealand Dollar 10.72 PKR 6.84 RUB 1.60 ZAR 0.22 TND 0.20 BBD 0.18 BGN Pakistani Rupee Russian Rouble South African Rand Tunisian Dinar Barbadian Dollar Bulgarian Lev 0.30 TRY 4.77 PHP 3.34 TWD 20.11 NGN 10.96 XPF 0.40 GHS Turkish Lira Philippine Peso New Taiwan Dollar Nigerian Naira CFP Franc Ghanaian Cedi 12.78 JMD 0.18 ANG 0.14 BND 11.31 RSD 0.67 CNY 2,036.25 BYR Jamaican Dollar Neth. Antillean Guilder Brunei Dollar Serbian Dinar Chinese Yuan Belarussian Ruble 0.68 DKK 0.35 TMT 6.88 INR

Danish Krone New Turkmenistan Manat Indian Rupee

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Port of Call - Casablanca Travellers expecting the glamour and mystery of Humphrey Bogart's Casablanca may be disappointed to find a busy, modern port, but the city is a convenient and popular gateway to Morocco for cruise passengers nonetheless. It is the biggest and most important port in Morocco and beneath the industrial surface some interesting history can be found. Casablanca is a busy, fast-growing port city with a European character. The population explosion, brought about chiefly by immigration from the countryside, has brought with it some social problems. The gap between the haves and the have-nots in Casablanca may be wide, but the city centre is impressive and modern, with wide avenues and soaring skyscrapers. The people too are modern and there is little sign of traditional dress and modestly scarved women.

Shopping in Casablanca

The old city area is small, but like the medina of most Moroccan cities it serves as an atmospheric bazaar. The canny shopkeepers, however, ensure that there are few real bargains to be had here. The famous Marché Central (Central Market) is the best place to go for bargains, and the Derb Ghraleef neighbourhood can be rewarding for the more adventurous. Best Buy: Moorish silver jewellery, leather goods, hookahs, tagines.

Dining in Casablanca

Bistrot Burger Restaurant - tasty food in a convenient location. Taverne du Dauphin - popular seafood restaurant near the medina. Rick's Cafe - an atmospheric reproduction of the restaurant from Casablanca. Best Dish: Tagines are a classic Moroccan dish. Fragrant and delicious, tagines are available in a variety of options including chicken, lamb and vegetable.

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Overview of the Attractions in Morocco Steeped in history, spanning miles of Mediterranean and Atlantic coastline, and boasting exciting attractions, Morocco is a sightseer's paradise. Part of the appeal is the inviting climate but there is so much more to this diverse and historically rich country than meets the eye. Within the enchanting medieval medinas of Fez and Marrakech, where snake charmers blow their hypnotic melodies amid the smell of the tanners' yards and the hustle and bustle of the open-air markets, the fascinating and exotic soul of Morocco can really be glimpsed. With Phoenician, Hellenic, Carthaginian and Roman civilisations all having passed through Morocco, it's also worth revelling in the immensity of the country's past by exploring its countless museums, palaces, mosques, tombs and ruins. Furthermore, adventurous travellers can head south to explore the hot desert sands of the Western Sahara, and see breathtaking landscapes which are a privilege to behold; or for a completely unexpected holiday experience, head deep into the High Atlas Mountains for a skiing holiday with a difference. There are exciting 4x4, horseback and camelback treks to enjoy as well as lovely coastlines to explore. Many of the sights around the cities are best explored on foot, but for those planning on criss-crossing the country, trunk-line trains run through the heart of Morocco, connecting over one hundred stations spread out over 1,184 miles (1,907km) of track. Bus travel is also a popular mode of transport.

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Public Holidays in Morocco 2020 2021 New Year’s Day Fri. January 1 Fri. January 1 Anniversary of the Independence Manifesto Mon. January 11 Mon. January 11 Labour Day Sat. May 1 Sat. May 1 Feast of the Throne Fri. July 30 Sat. July 31 Oued Ed-Dahab Day Sat. August 14 Sat. August 14 Revolution of King and People Fri. August 20 Fri. August 20 Youth Day Sat. August 21 Sat. August 21 Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan) Mon. May 24 Thu. May 13 Independence Day Thu. November 18 Thu. November 18 Eid Al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice) Sat. July 31 Tue. July 20 Islamic New Year Fri. August 20 Tue. August 10 Birth of Muhammad Fri. October 29 Tue. October 19

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