single female aged 46 going to marrakesh alone. How will i get on?

Question

always wanted to go but have hesitated because of bad experience in tunisia also alone although that was about 16 years ago

Answer 1

At first glance, Moroccan women up here to enjoy the same equality as what other women do in English speaking countries. Women hold high positions in the government as well as in the private sector. Women’s magazines can be seen in the newsstands talking about liberal ideas such as quality premarital sex and even abortion. Make no mistake, when visiting Morocco one finds a completely different picture.

There is no doubt that for women traveling and Morocco, it can be quite a different experience than traveling in Europe. The roles of the sexes are more defined then in the West. In villages and small towns women still wear veils and the streets are the man’s domain and the house is the woman’s. Moroccan men expect to marry a virgin and smoking a cigarette or drinking in a bar is taboo-perceive to be only done by hookers and prostitutes.

It is to be said however that in the city’s especially Rabat, Casablanca, Agadir, and even Marrakech the youth movement is gradually changing and nowadays it is much more common to find women on the street and in cafes without wearing a veil. You will see young people hanging out together although premarital sex is kept to a minimum.

Sexual Harassment

Each woman who visits Morocco has a different experience with sexual harassment. Some find it plentiful throughout the country while others experienced little or none at all. For most women, Morocco compares favorably to countries such as Spain and other parts of southern Europe, but made no doubt, the restaurant of chorused here is much more persistent than in northern Europe or other speaking countries.

Arrest men, including sexual harassment should never be tolerated. Some men will try to talk to you while others will come out and directly ask for sex. This stems from the misunderstanding of western culture and the sexual attitudes that people have in those countries.

The same strategies that you would use for getting rid of unwanted attention at home should be used here, for no Moroccan woman would tolerate the unwanted comments and catcalls that Moroccan men are noted for doing to tourists. Do not look man directly in the eye, and when it all possible trouble with a male companion and when in conversation refer to him at your husband. It is also a good idea not to smoke in public, as some men still interpret this as a solicitation for sex.

How you dress is an other way to reduce harassment. Wearing “modest” clothing ( long sleeve shirts and long skirts) will give the impression that you are to be respected as a woman. To go a step further, you may want to wear a head scarf to give this impression even more. However, you will notice more and more Moroccan women today shunning the traditional dress and do not suffer a significant increase in sexual harassment.

You should avoid physical contact with Moroccan man, even in a manner in which seems to be friendly and innocent. This can be construed as being an invitation for sex. If the Moroccan man touches you, you should not hesitate to make a scene. Shouting “Shooma!” (Shame on you!), will more than likely result in someone helping you.

Many men consider women second class citizens though educated Muslim women will point out this is a misinterpretation of Islam. Although there is a distinct separation between men and women in most of Morocco, times are slowly changing and women are starting to receive the respect and equality that is seen in other countries. It should be pointed out that the religion of Islam does not condone in any way sexual harassment nor do any respectable Moroccans. Being aware of what you will encounter will help you and the threat of sexual harassment will seem less intimidating.

Change

In October, 2003 King Mohammed VI Gave historic speech that called for a radical change his position of women, in particular in marriage, divorce, and the family. Ratified by parliament and 2004, Morocco gave women equal rights to women in almost all aspects of the law. This is made Moroccan women than most liberated in the Arab world. Women were given better rights in divorce settlements, including claim to the family home=to that of the man . Men are no longer considered “ head of the household “ but today marriage is now viewed as a contract between the equal partners between man and woman and a woman is no longer required by law to obey her husband.

The minimum age for a woman to become married was raised from the fifteen to eighteen years old ( equal to that of a man) . Upon reaching the age of eighteen and a woman can now married whom she chooses without needing the permission of her father.

These changes have been the culmination of women’s rights groups and the feminine press working to liberate women and Morocco. Today’s Moroccan woman represents the future of the country’s economic and social development and holds the key to political stability in the country. Although few women in cities and a majority of women enrolled areas are still uneducated the Moroccan government of today has helped to improve women’s rights, education, and way of life across the country so that the women of Morocco can realize the potential of their new rights.

Answer 2

Marrakesh is a city that sums up each of Morocco's incredible North African allure, view it with hotelbye . The city's title provided the basis for the name of the nation itself, spelling out this town's importance down the ages. Within the bustle of the city primary you'll find previous and new clashing and mixing, which could produce some tourists very nearly dizzy. Snake charmers and smooth store touts both contend for the interest amid a loud, vivid bustle that encapsulates Morocco's vibrant soul. For a lot of guests, Marrakesh's labyrinth Medina (Old City) area is the town's star attraction. The slim alleyways certainly are a kaleidoscope of colours, smells and sounds. Is likely to function as the sightseeing spotlight of your trip; along with the just wandering is intended to busy maze.

Answer 3

well i also had bad experiences in tunisia and i am a man
but i am told that as a woman you should be alright if you are not too westernised by showing too much flesh , cover your chest and arms and wear long skirts when travelling do not sit in street cafes as this is a men's domain if you can team up with some other women traveller even better, take a recommended guide from the hotel when going to the kasbah (old town) and always tell someone where you are going. sensible really isnt it
good luck

Answer 4

Are you a blonde? Because if you are and you aren't looking for unwanted male attention, then wear a big hat or a headscarf to hide your hair. I am being totally serious here. North African's LOVE women with blonde hair, esp if they are of a fuller figure. Also you could look on the web to find a reputable tour guide to go places with you. I'm not saying you need to be scared or anything like that but this will also rule out any unwanted attention.
And do enjoy the holiday, i am sure you will have a great time!

Answer 5

You'll love it if you got through Tunisia.A Moroccan will steal



your last,but if they knew you had nothing they'd give you their
last.(How many people here in the west would)Getting a local
bus from Marrakesh to Agadir is an experience of beauty(scenery)an culture you have to try.I Spoke to some people on
the bus,one guys sister came and sat next to me but could'nt
speak English.I still kick myself that i did'nt ask him if i could marry her.SHE was the most beautiful female i have ever seen
and i mean ever.Nothing to you,but you get to know the people and you'll feel the same about them.

Answer 6

You are stark, raving mad!! I've been to Tunisia, Morocco, Egypt and The Gambia - but NEVER alone!! You're one brave woman and I wish you all the best :-)

ps: My experience of Tunisia was horrific as well (I was 15) and I'll never return.

Answer 7

I know a relative (woman, divorcee) who was streetwise yet found herself inundated with unwanted attention while working in Egypt.

I suggest dressing modestly, wear a hat or scarf, and not going out after dark on your own. If you can find another woman to walk or travel with, so much the better.

Answer 8

Dress modestly, learn a few useful Arabic phrases, be polite but assertive. Avoid at all costs being led off anywhere you don't want to go; even if it's not actually dangerous you can be pestered into buying something.

You'll be fine, good luck :)

Answer 9

call this number once in morocco: 078648762. I think I could help.

Answer 10

feel free to enjoy your stay, don't wear any hot dressing, be normal, wish u nice trip.