Safety in Morocco
Morocco is a safe country, safer than all European Mediterranean countries. Crime rates are low, and violence uncommon. There is also little to worry about from nature's side. Low temperatures in the winter, strong sun in the summer, undercurrents at certain Atlantic beaches are keywords for what to be careful about.
But unfortunate things can come your way here as well. Carrying small amounts of money, holding your camera close to your body, and be careful when you're in crowds. You should also shun all Moroccans fitting this description: Young man, in ordinary clothes, speaking several languages, and coming up to you warning you about the dangers of this and that. If they say they're students, they're most likely lying. But if they say they're guides, and offer to show you around the old city or something, at a certain price, there is less reason to be suspicious. But even in this case you should prepare to spend some time inside shops selling carpets or leather ware. If you run into somebody showing any kind of aggression in the beginning, call for the police. Not because your life is in danger, but because the police is the only ones who can get these people off your neck.
But the best advice is: With a smile and easygoing friendliness, even the worst hustlers won't do you any harm. When somebody run into real problems in Morocco, it's very likely that they pay a just and fair price for the racism that they or somebody around them carry in their harts or in their acts. Moroccans are first class judges of character. But, not even the friendliest person should not stop looking well after his possesions.
Is it safe for a woman to travel alone in Morocco?
Traveling around Morocco as a single woman involves no greater risk than in most other countries in the world. However, any woman, particularly a tourist traveling alone, will be faced with some unwanted attention from Moroccan men. Here's a few tips on how to deal with that.
Don't respond
Moroccan men tend to hiss, whistle and make remarks at women, whether they are local women or foreigners. The thing to remember is that this is a habit pretty much like spitting on the floor. They don't expect you to actually respond, and would be quite taken aback if you did.
Moroccan women have developed a good strategy in response to all the "Ah, gazelle!" and other remarks made at them. They simply look into the distance, nose up high and walk on. This "camel look" is the reaction men will expect from you. Stick to it, no matter how fed up you are with all their attention.
Dress discreetly
Morocco is an islamic culture. The role of women is in the background. You don't have to agree with that, but if you want to enjoy your holiday, you'd better adapt to it.
Mini skirts, short pants, tank tops and tight shirts will definitely attract a lot more attention than you would feel comfortable with. Don't wear them in the streets. Long and loose fitting clothes will shield you from a lot of hassles - and from the Moroccan heat.
There is no need to overdo your dress code. It is unnecessary to wear a scarve or a veil.
Morocco is a safe country, safer than all European Mediterranean countries. Crime rates are low, and violence uncommon. There is also little to worry about from nature's side. Low temperatures in the winter, strong sun in the summer, undercurrents at certain Atlantic beaches are keywords for what to be careful about.
But unfortunate things can come your way here as well. Carrying small amounts of money, holding your camera close to your body, and be careful when you're in crowds. You should also shun all Moroccans fitting this description: Young man, in ordinary clothes, speaking several languages, and coming up to you warning you about the dangers of this and that. If they say they're students, they're most likely lying. But if they say they're guides, and offer to show you around the old city or something, at a certain price, there is less reason to be suspicious. But even in this case you should prepare to spend some time inside shops selling carpets or leather ware. If you run into somebody showing any kind of aggression in the beginning, call for the police. Not because your life is in danger, but because the police is the only ones who can get these people off your neck.
But the best advice is: With a smile and easygoing friendliness, even the worst hustlers won't do you any harm. When somebody run into real problems in Morocco, it's very likely that they pay a just and fair price for the racism that they or somebody around them carry in their harts or in their acts. Moroccans are first class judges of character. But, not even the friendliest person should not stop looking well after his possesions.
Is it safe for a woman to travel alone in Morocco?
Traveling around Morocco as a single woman involves no greater risk than in most other countries in the world. However, any woman, particularly a tourist traveling alone, will be faced with some unwanted attention from Moroccan men. Here's a few tips on how to deal with that.
Don't respond
Moroccan men tend to hiss, whistle and make remarks at women, whether they are local women or foreigners. The thing to remember is that this is a habit pretty much like spitting on the floor. They don't expect you to actually respond, and would be quite taken aback if you did.
Moroccan women have developed a good strategy in response to all the "Ah, gazelle!" and other remarks made at them. They simply look into the distance, nose up high and walk on. This "camel look" is the reaction men will expect from you. Stick to it, no matter how fed up you are with all their attention.
Dress discreetly
Morocco is an islamic culture. The role of women is in the background. You don't have to agree with that, but if you want to enjoy your holiday, you'd better adapt to it.
Mini skirts, short pants, tank tops and tight shirts will definitely attract a lot more attention than you would feel comfortable with. Don't wear them in the streets. Long and loose fitting clothes will shield you from a lot of hassles - and from the Moroccan heat.
There is no need to overdo your dress code. It is unnecessary to wear a scarve or a veil.
