FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Below is a random selection of FAQ´s that we have collected from our clients…

CULTURE

Morocco is a very tolerant country. Although it is a predominately Muslim country it accepts other faiths and there are churches and synagogues in Marrakech.  Females are treated equally in Moroccan society.

WEATHER

It is far drier and warmer than Spain, Portugal and Turkey. This makes it the perfect winter golf destination. It is “VERY” hot in Marrakech in July and August and even hotter in the desert!

CLOTHING

Morocco is a very tolerant country, however in Marrakech and other towns one should dress a little more conservatively. So ladies should cover their shoulders and perhaps wear dresses that are at least knee length. But generally anything is accepted, you just need to use your common sense!  The usual conventions apply for golf attire.

TIPPING

Tipping is totally discretionary and not obligatory!! In restaurants 10%, and for taxis round the fare up generously.

MEDICAL

Please bring your normal medical stuff! However, you might also want to bring some lip cream (the air is very dry) and if planning a long trip to the desert, motion sickness pills (if you suffer from car sickness) and rehydration salts or powder.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

This is highly recommended – especially medical evacuation and medical cover.

PHONE NETWORK AND INTERNET

There are 3 main networks in Morocco, Maroc Telkom, Meditel (Orange) and Wana Inwi. You can obtain a local SIM card at the airport or at one of the telephone kiosks in town. Most come with 3 and 4G. All our accommodation options have wifi.

INSECTS

It is dry so only the occasional mosquito!. There is no malaria.

DIETARY REQUIREMENTS

If you have any special dietary requirements please let us know! Morocco has superb fresh fruit and vegetables.

PASSPORTS

Please ensure they have a validity of at least 6 months, otherwise you might be refused entry. No visa is required. On arrival you will receive a 90 day tourist visa. No fee is applicable to UK, other European, US, Canadian and Australian Nationals.

MONEY

The currency is Dirham, often referred to as MAD. There are around 12.0 MAD to £1 at the time of writing. DO NOT change any money into Dirhams before arriving in Morocco. The rates of exchange are 20 to 40% higher in Morocco. You can change money at Marrakech airport, although the rates are slightly better at the money changers in town. Alternatively there is no shortage of cashpoints where debit or credit cards can be used to withdraw Dirhams.

ALCOHOL

Is available in many restaurants and hotels but there are many where it isn’t so check beforehand if this is important! Alcohol can be bought in duty free and purchased in supermarkets. Morocco produces its own beer and wine which we would recommend trying.

BARGAINING

Supermarkets are fixed price. Most things in the souks are not. The art of bargaining for a high value item is to have time and have some idea of the price before one finalises the deal. Obtaining 50 to 70% off, is not an indication of a good deal! For low value items try to enjoy the bartering and keep a perspective – the stall holders are not highly paid and genuinely would rather get the sale at a fair price. If you are not at all interested in buying an item do not commence the bargaining!

If you really would rather not haggle for your souvenirs there are fixed price shops which sell many items that can be found in the souks. Your concierge can advise where these can be found.

LOCAL HANDICRAFTS

Morocco produces some of the most amazing stuff! Craftsmanship still very much exists in Morocco. This is really a statement, not an FAQ!!!

HASSLE

I would describe the level of hassle in the Medina as low level and mildly annoying. Some traders are pushier than others. Young kids like to tell you that you are going the wrong way or that a particular street is closed. Just smile and walk on. Don’t argue or lose your temper, keep calm and smile.

CRIME

Crime is simply not tolerated in Morocco and it’s a remarkably safe society. Of course you need to be vigilant, but compared to the UK and most other countries Morocco is very safe. In Morocco everyone seems to know everyone and look out for each other.   This caring society no doubt helps keep crime down.