traveling to Morroco? need advice?

Question

im traveling to morroco in february 2007, any advice? im going to visit my boyfriend, im 22 from the USA, anyways any advice about what i should take with me,

Answer 1

enjoy it, eat well, and expect to gain a few pounds :P it's worth it, the food is great, and organic. night life is amazing; here's a website that would give u a tiny idea of what it's like there: http://www.blancapeople.com/ . u can dress normally, u'll see the girls there, they dress just like in the u.s.
u're going in february so it's gonna be a little cold to swim, unless u go to the south, agadir. and if u go to marrakech, make sure to go the pacha (a nice night club)

Answer 2

first of all, are not getting the euros here, wait until you arrive to Spain to have you cash replace (the charges are lots extra useful there)besides you ussually pays with funds there yet i do no longer propose that. 2nd, in case you are going to be able to desire to compliment between Barcelona (or different place in Spain) and Morocco, little question, Barcelona, it somewhat is rather heat (around 70-eighty) and safer than Morocco (extra while you're an US citizen). i might propose you to circulate circulate to different cities of the south of Spain like Granada or Cordoba, i'm particular you will love them. and of direction Madrid. the money saving information, use public transportation (it somewhat is somewhat sturdy)and verify out to no longer look like a lost turist ;)

Answer 3

I have been there two times. it is a wonderful country,full of exotic sites. the hospitality is amazing.
that time of year is pleasant. but, it does cool down at night. and some of the houses are cool inside. so, perhaps bring long sleeve tees,jeans,tennis shoes(they do a lot of walking) sweaters for evenings.
so, your boyfriend is a Moroccan. be careful that he does not pursue you for an American visa. this is known to happen with some of these men. but, of course there are the others who love you til death.

Answer 4

Might be a good idea to bring a headscarf in case you visit any mosques and shorts are not commonly worn. Some light pants would be advised. Have a great trip!

Answer 5

that's lovely to go there
well get ready to be chocked once you put your foot in the terminal... Kidding ... It's not that bad, just try not to be alone going into crowded places and you have to be barefoot if u like to walk on a carpet, ... pple there eat in one plat, so you have to wash your hands very well before eating, helping hosts is a good idea too ...
Once in Marrakesh, you will fall in magical dream... believe me... it's an incredible country !!

Answer 6

take what u need in any travel , but u have to take ur medecines if u take some , i m from morocco , sur u will enjoy it , sur it different from usa but its nice and safe country , and that sthe important , people are amazing. we are so cool anjoy ur travel.

Answer 7

never been but I was planning on going but might cancel(not sure if I should make the trip alone) but I have heard good things about it so best of luck to ya♥♥♥

Answer 8

Bring toliet paper and try to pack light.

Answer 9

i m frome morocco, si very good, juste tell me city when you go

Answer 10

The official word of the US Government:

March 10, 2006

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION: Morocco is a constitutional monarchy with a Parliament and an independent judiciary; however, ultimate authority rests with the king. The population is estimated at 32.7 million. While Morocco has a developing economy, modern tourist facilities and means of transportation are widely available, but may vary in quality depending on price and location. Read the Department of State Background Notes on Morocco for additional information.

ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS: Travelers to Morocco must have a valid passport. Visas are not required for American tourists traveling to Morocco for fewer than 90 days. For visits of more than 90 days, Americans are required to apply for an extension (with a valid reason for the extension of stay). There are no required vaccines to enter Morocco. Travelers who plan to reside in Morocco must obtain a residence permit. A residence permit may be requested and obtained from immigration authorities (Service Etranger) at the central police station of the district of residence. U.S. citizens are encouraged to carry a copy of their U.S. passports with them at all times, so that, if questioned by local officials, proof of identity and U.S. citizenship are readily available.

Children born to a Moroccan father may experience difficulty in leaving Morocco without the father's permission. These children are considered under Moroccan law to be Moroccan citizens. Even if the children bear U.S. passports, immigration officials may require proof that the father has approved their departure before the children will be allowed to leave Morocco. Although women, regardless of their nationality, are normally granted custody of their children in divorces, the father must approve the children's departure from Morocco. American women married to Moroccans do not need their spouse's permission to leave Morocco.

For further information on entry/exit requirements for Morocco, please contact the Embassy of Morocco at 1601 21st Street, NW, Washington, DC 20009, telephone [phone] to 82, fax [phone], or the Moroccan Consulate General in New York at 10 E. 40th Street, New York, NY 10016, telephone [phone], fax [phone]. See our Foreign Entry Requirements brochure for more information on Morocco and other countries. Visit the Embassy of Morocco web site at http://www.usembassy.ma/ for the most current visa information.

See Entry and Exit Requirements for more information pertaining to dual nationality and the prevention of international child abduction. Please refer to our Customs Information to learn more about customs regulations

SAFETY AND SECURITY A series of terrorist bombings took place in Casablanca on May 16, 2003. Although U.S. Government facilities were not the target of the Casablanca attacks (and no Americans were killed or injured), the potential for violence against American interests and citizens remains high in Morocco. Establishments, which are readily identifiable with the United States, are potential targets for attacks. These may include facilities where US citizens and other foreigners congregate, including clubs, restaurants, and places of worship, schools, hotels, movie theaters and other public areas. Such targets may also include establishments where activities occur that may offend religious sensitivities, such as casinos or places where alcoholic beverages are sold or consumed.

While in Morocco it is important to be aware of your surroundings and maintain a low profile. All U.S. citizens are urged to consider seriously their personal security and to take those measures they deem appropriate to ensure their well being. Report any suspicious incidents or problems immediately to Moroccan authorities and the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Demonstrations occur frequently in Morocco and usually center on local domestic issues. During periods of heightened regional tension, large demonstrations may take place in the major cities. All demonstrations require a government permit, but on occasion spontaneous unauthorized demonstrations may occur. Travelers should be cognizant of the current levels of tension in Morocco and stay informed of regional issues that could resonate in Morocco and create an anti-American response. Avoid demonstrations if at all possible. If caught in a demonstration, remain calm and move away immediately when provided the opportunity.

The sparsely settled Western Sahara was long the site of armed conflict between government forces and the Polisario Front, which had demanded independence. A cease-fire has been in effect since 1991 in the U.N.-administered area. There are thousands of unexploded mines in the Western Sahara and in areas of Mauritania adjacent to the Western Sahara border. Exploding mines are occasionally reported, and they have caused death and injury. Travel to the Western Sahara remains restricted; persons planning to travel to the region should obtain information on clearance requirements from the Moroccan Embassy.

For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department’s Internet web site , where the current Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, Travel Warnings and Public Announcements, including the Middle East and North Africa Public Announcements , can be found.

Up-to-date information of safety and security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S., or for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll-line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

The Department of State urges American citizens to take responsibility for their own personal security while traveling overseas. For general information about appropriate measures travelers can take to protect themselves in an overseas environment, see the Department of State’s pamphlet, A Safe Trip Abroad.

CRIME: The threat level for crime in Morocco is considered to be high. Crimes including aggressive panhandling pick pocketing, purse snatching, theft from vehicles and harassment of women are reported most frequently. They are more likely to occur in crowded market areas, transportation centers, parks and beaches. Additionally, criminals have brandished weapons, primarily knives, during some street robberies. These have generally occurred at night in either isolated places or areas less frequented by visitors. It is always best to have a travel companion and utilize taxis from point to point, particularly at night and when moving about unfamiliar areas. Most criminals look for opportunities to steal by stealth rather than confrontation but, as stated, there are exceptions.

Women walking alone in certain areas of cities and rural areas are particularly vulnerable to harassment from men. Women are advised to travel with a companion or in a group when possible and to ignore any harassment. Responding to verbal harassment can escalate the situation. The best course of action is generally not to respond or make eye contact with the harasser.

Joggers should be mindful of traffic and remain in more heavily populated areas. It is always best to have a jogging companion and avoid nighttime and isolated areas.

Taxis and trains in Morocco are generally crime-free, though city buses are not considered safe. Avoid carrying large sums of cash and be particularly alert when utilizing ATM machines. In the event you are victimized by crime or an attempted crime, or experience any security-related incident during your stay in Morocco, please report the incident to the local police and the U.S. Consulate General in Casablanca as soon as possible.

INFORMATION FOR VICTIMS OF CRIME: The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police to obtain a “certificate de perte” (statement of loss/theft) and to the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. If you are the victim of a crime while overseas, in addition to reporting to local police, please contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance. The Embassy/Consulate staff can, for example, assist you to find appropriate medical care, to contact family members or friends and explain how funds could be transferred. Although the investigation and prosecution of the crime is solely the responsibility of local authorities, consular officers can help you to understand the local criminal justice process and to find an attorney if needed. See our information on Victims of Crime.

MEDICAL FACILITIES AND HEALTH INFORMATION: Adequate medical care is available in Morocco’s largest cities, particularly in Rabat and Casablanca, although not all facilities meet high-quality standards. Specialized care or treatment may not be available. Medical facilities are adequate for non-emergency matters, particularly in the urban areas, but most medical staff will have limited or no English skills. Most ordinary prescription and over- the-counter medicines are widely available. However, specialized prescriptions may be difficult to fill and availability of all medicines in rural areas is unreliable. Emergency and specialized care outside the major cities is far below U.S. standards, and in many instances may not be available at all. Travelers planning to drive in the mountains and other remote areas may wish to carry a medical kit and a Moroccan phone card for emergencies. In the event of car accidents involving injuries, immediate ambulance service usually is not available. The police emergency services telephone number is 190 (see Traffic Safety and Road Conditions section below).

Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect bite protection, may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747) or via the CDC’s Internet site at http://www.cdc.gov/travel. For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad consult the World Health Organization’s (WHO) website at http://www.who.int/en. Further health information for travelers is available at http://www.who.int/ith.

MEDICAL INSURANCE: The Department of State strongly urges Americans to consult with their medical insurance company prior to traveling abroad to confirm whether their policy applies overseas and whether it will cover emergency expenses such as a medical evacuation. Please see our information on medical insurance overseas.

TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS: While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Morocco is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.

Traffic accidents are a significant hazard in Morocco. Driving practices are poor, and they have resulted in serious injuries and fatalities to U.S. citizens. This is particularly true at dusk during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, when adherence to traffic regulations is lax, and from July to September when Moroccans resident abroad return from Europe by car in large numbers. Congested streets are characteristic of urban driving. Traffic signals do not always function, and they are sometimes difficult to see. Modern freeways link the cities of Tangier, Rabat, Fez and Casablanca. Two-lane highways link other major cities.

Secondary routes in rural areas are often narrow and poorly paved. Roads through the Rif and Atlas mountains are steep, narrow, windy, and dangerous. Maximum caution should be exercised when driving in the mountains. Pedestrians, scooters, and animal-drawn conveyances are common on all roadways, including the freeways, and driving at night should be avoided, if possible. During the rainy season (November - March) flash flooding is frequent and sometimes severe, washing away roads and vehicles in rural areas. Often Moroccan police officers pull over drivers for inspection within the city and on highways. In the event of a traffic accident, including accidents involving injuries, the parties are required to remain at the scene and not move their vehicles until the police have arrived and documented all necessary information. The police emergency services telephone number is 190.

While public buses and taxis are inexpensive, drivers typically exhibit poor driving habits, and the buses are frequently overcrowded. The train system has a good safety record. Trains, while sometimes crowded, are comfortable and generally on time.

Please refer to our Road Safety page for more information. Visit the website of the Moroccan National Tourist Office at http://www.tourismemarocain.ca/index1a.html and the Moroccan Ministry of Transportation’s road safety website at http://www.mtmm.gov.ma/.

AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Morocco as being in compliance with ICAO international aviation safety standards for oversight of Morocco’s air carrier operations. For more information, travelers may visit the FAA’s internet web site at http://www.faa.gov/safety/programs_initiatives/oversight/iasa.

SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES: The government of Morocco considers all persons born to Moroccan fathers to be Moroccan citizens. In addition to being subject to all Moroccan laws, U.S. citizens who also possess the nationality of Morocco may be subject to other laws that impose special obligations on citizens of that country.

Current Moroccan customs procedures do not provide for accurate or reliable registration of large quantities of U.S. dollars brought into the country by tourists or other visitors. As a result, travelers encounter difficulties when they attempt to depart with the money. In particular, American citizens with dual Moroccan nationality have been asked to provide proof of the source of the funds and have incurred heavy fines. The export of Moroccan currency (dirhams) is prohibited; however, Moroccan currency can only be converted back into U.S. dollars prior to departure if the traveler has a bank or money transfer receipt indicating they exchanged dollars for dirhams while in Morocco.

Also, Moroccan customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export from Morocco of items such as firearms, religious materials, antiquities, business equipment, and large quantities of currency. It is advisable to contact the Embassy of Morocco in Washington, DC or the Moroccan Consulate General in New York for specific information concerning customs requirements. Please see our information on customs regulations.

Islam is the state religion of Morocco. The Moroccan government does not interfere with public worship by the country’s Jewish minority or by expatriate Christians. However, while Christians are allowed to practice their faith, some activities, such as proselytizing or encouraging conversion to the Christian faith -- both considered to be legally incompatible with Islam -- are prohibited. In the past, American citizens have been detained or arrested and expelled for discussing or trying to engage Moroccans in debate about Christianity.

Although rare, security personnel in Morocco may at times place foreign visitors under surveillance. Taking photographs of anything that could be perceived as being of military or security interest may result in problems with authorities. As a general rule, travelers should not photograph diplomatic missions, government buildings or other sensitive facilities and, when in doubt, they should ask for permission from the appropriate Moroccan authorities.


CRIMINAL PENALTIES: While in a foreign country, a U.S. citizen is subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from those in the United States and may not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offenses. Persons violating Moroccan laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Morocco are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Engaging in sexual conduct with children or using or disseminating child pornography in a foreign country is a crime, prosecutable in the United States. Please see our information on Criminal Penalties.

CHILDREN'S ISSUES: For information on international adoption of children and international parental child abduction, see the Office of Children’s Issues website .

REGISTRATION/EMBASSY AND CONSULATE LOCATION: Americans living or traveling in Morocco are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department’s travel registration website , and to obtain updated information on travel and security within Morocco. Americans without Internet access may register by telephone [phone], by fax [phone] or in person at the U.S. Consulate General located at 8 Boulevard Moulay Youssef, Casablanca. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency. All consular matters for Americans in Morocco are handled at the U.S. Consulate General in Casablanca. The U.S. Embassy is located at 2 Avenue de Marrakech in the capital city of Rabat, telephone [phone]. The workweek is Monday to Friday; however, the Consulate is closed to the public on Fridays for all consular services with the exception of emergency services for American citizens. The consular section's American Citizens Services hotline is (212)(22) 43-05-78. For emergency services after-hours, please call the Duty Officer cell phone at (212)(61)17-23-67 for Casablanca and (212)(61)-13-19-39 for Rabat. Please visit http://www.usembassy.ma for information on services offered by the U.S. Embassy in Rabat and http://casablanca.usconsulate.gov for information on all consular services and other assistance offered at the U.S. Consulate General in Casablanca.