10 Truths and Lies About Traveling to Morocco
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It is incredible that, although Morocco is next to Spain, it is the last
destination we think of when organizing our holidays. Is it precisely the
proximity of the two countries that pushes us into this situation? Or the
number of misconceptions we have about our neighbors? I am going to expose
you some truths and lies about traveling to Morocco so that you can judge
whether or not this country is a memorable destination.
1. Morocco is reduced to Marrakech
FALSE
Marrakech may be the most visited city in Morocco, but it is not the
Maghreb country on its own. In fact, we can mention cities like
Casablanca, Meknes or Fez, the latter being much quieter than Marrakech,
or, if I dare say, more interesting for the traveler. We can add Essaouira
to this list, a small coastal town that overflows with authenticity
through all its pores.
And I will not forget the incredible route of the kasbahs, which takes
you into places as incredible as the ksar of Aït-Ben-Haddou, the kasbah of
Taourirt or that of Télouet.
2. It is dangerous to drive in Morocco
FALSE (that said, you have to be
careful)
The subject of driving in Morocco is a bit tricky. Frankly, I would say
that this is precisely not a quiet activity. However, I also cannot say
that it is impossible or dangerous to drive, especially if we take into
account the fact that the majority of travelers rent cars to make the
roads in the southernmost area of the country, including the famous road
of 1000 kasbahs that I mentioned earlier. These areas are much quieter
about this than the cities. So you won't have any problems if you respect
the driving rules and speed limits – in Morocco, there are speed cameras
on every street corner.
All the same, you have to be careful when driving, because it is likely
that you will come across people (or animals, even) walking on the
sidewalks, a lot of radars, trucks traveling at low speed ... and many
other factors that make driving a little different from what you're used
to.
3. The food is delicious
TRUE
There is nothing as true as this statement when talking about Morocco.
This country has one of the most succulent cuisines in the world. Hard to
believe? Well, try couscous, a species of semolina that is often eaten
with vegetables, or Tagine, a dish that takes its name from the container
in which it is cooked – it is often made from chicken or lamb and is
accompanied by ingredients such as vegetables, dates, blackberries and
olives. The latter is one of the most typical and eaten dishes, not only
because it is delicious, but also because it is served in most restaurants
and the price is usually correct.
4. It feels like you're being "suffocated" by the vendors
TRUE, FALSE
Certainly, we can say that going deep into the Medina of cities like
Marrakech can be quite an adventure, since it is commonplace to answer
"No, thank you." to vendors who offer you all kinds of things, but from
the moment you abandon the most touristic areas, or you move away from the
city, the panorama changes completely. Even in cities as large as Fez, the
insistent pressure of vendors takes a back seat and lets you enjoy
pleasant walks in the souks without you feeling harassed.
I recommend that you already get used to this idea in cities like this
and always consider it as an anecdote. Otherwise, you will end up feeling
rushed and, therefore, overwhelmed by most merchants.
5. Sleeping in a Riad is a one-of-a-kind experience
TRUE
The word "Riad" means "garden" in Arabic. It is a type of house built
around a patio that houses a garden and around which are distributed the
living rooms as well as the common areas. This patio, which is usually the
center of construction, is adorned with mosaics and plants. Many times,
there are fountains, which refer to water, another symbol of this type of
housing.
In addition to being exquisitely decorated, the Riads are very
comfortable, and the hosts are, in general, much friendlier, warmer than
in hotels. They are therefore a perfect accommodation possibility if you
are going to Morocco.
If you have the opportunity to spend at least one night in a Riad, seize
it without hesitation. I guarantee you won't regret it.
6. It's worth spending a night in the desert
TRUE
There is nothing as impressive as spending a night in the desert, under a
Khaima (tente), surrounded by myriads of stars, enjoying a traditional
dinner. That said, I suggest you try to avoid organized and more touristy
tours. It's much more exciting to have this experience in a small
group.
7. It is dangerous to travel to Morocco
FALSE
Nothing could be further from the truth. Morocco is a very safe country,
as safe as Spain can be. So you have no reason to pay much more attention
or much more common sense than you had to in a city here.
8. Morocco is a perfect country to travel by car
TRUE
Despite everything, you could read and as I told you earlier, driving in
Morocco is not dangerous, at least, not as much not to take a car ride
there. Ok. I advise you not to use this means of travel in large cities,
but you can very well use it to make, for example, the route of the
kasbahs and get to the gates of the desert, because you have much more
margin of schedules and movement.
9. It's always hot in Morocco
FALSE
To see what the temperatures may look like, you only have to go to the
Moroccan Atlas in the middle of winter. What's more, it often snows in
this area. So, if you plan to travel by car, you will have to check the
condition of the roads, because they are closed many times.
It is the same in other areas of the country, such as Fez, if you go
there in the middle of winter. Do not think that you will be able to walk
around in a shirt, tank top or any other garment with straps or
sleeveless. Instead, take winter clothes – sometimes, depending on the
month, you end up below 10 °C.
10. Morocco is a destination
TRUE
You have no idea how impressive this country is, how many beautiful
places you could know and how warm its people are, but I warn you, we get
hooked: get ready to go back. In this case, always do it by carrying the
local currency, the Moroccan Dirham, which will allow you to enjoy the
country.
However, neither can I say that it is impossible or dangerous to drive, especially considering that the majority of travelers hire cars to drive the roads in the southernmost area of the country, among which the famous road of 1000 kasbahs that I mentioned earlier.
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