WHAT NOT TO DO IN MARRAKESH
What Not To Do In Marrakesh
Morocco is an incredible place for any kind of tourist as this is one of the most versatile destinations in the Middle-East.Morocco is an incredible place for any kind of tourist as this is one of the most versatile destinations in the Middle-East.
With the desert, incredible mountains and everything in between this is one destination that needs to be bumped up your bucket list.
If you do make a trip chances are you’ll end up in the popular city of Marrakesh – this is a tourist hotspot that is full of local culture, colour, flavours and so much more; a real sensory overload.
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As with any city there are do’s and don’ts – in this article we’ll be addressing the top 10 things not do whilst visiting Marrakesh.
With the desert, incredible mountains and everything in between this is one destination that needs to be bumped up your bucket list.
If you do make a trip chances are you’ll end up in the popular city of Marrakesh – this is a tourist hotspot that is full of local culture, colour, flavours and so much more; a real sensory overload.
As with any city there are do’s and don’ts – in this article we’ll be addressing the top 10 things not do whilst visiting Marrakesh.
As tempting as it might be don’t get taken by a street guide. You will be comforted by an assortment of friendly, helpful locals eager to escort you somewhere; however, the majority are opportunist hustlers making them intimidating and persistent if you happen to end up with them.
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Taxi drivers abroad are usually a no go and the same applies here in Marrakesh. Many tourists find themselves being MASSIVELY over charged when drivers use off the meter fees.
If you are going to use a taxi be sure to appear confident and savvy, of course without being rude! Being too soft will mean these drivers really do take you for a spin.
This is a culture very much orientated around markets meaning you need to be ready to haggle to really bring home a bargain – never accept the first price offered to you, especially or larger more expensive items.
Just remember that these are peoples livelihoods so don’t rip them off. TOP TIP: having the physical money out in front of a seller can help to drive home a sale as it’s a big incentive to give you the deal you’re after.
A must buy in the markets is a pair of the gorgeous, traditional Moroccan slippers known as barbouche. Although remember these are made of tough material that will take a few wears to probably break in, wearing them on a busy day with lots of walking will ruin your feet for the rest of the trip!
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Snake charmers can be savvy so don’t try to feed them or show interest in less you are willing to pay for the experience. Many charmers will attempt to put a snake around you unexpectedly and then take advantage of your fear and demand payments to remove it – probably best to avoid them although unless you’re interested.
Whilst its usually tempting to carry card or large notes only in Marrakesh vendors will often take advantage of your lack of change meaning you could end up getting ripped of at the markets since you don’t have change.
This one is a really important one; don’t forget you are in a Muslim country. Be respectful and appropriate at all times. It is not asked that ladies wear head scarfs or that you participate in the Islamic rituals however woman should be dressed in a more conservative manner to avoid offending the local culture.
If you are planning a trip to this African country don’t leave your immigration papers until the last minute. You have to complete this form on arrival and departure so having it ready in advance will save you queuing unnecessarily.
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Language barriers make likely be more apparent here than you’d expect as the most common second language is French. If you aren’t planning on learning Arabic just try to know the basics of French, locals will appreciate your attempts, and this will go a long way in terms of appearing respectful.
Finally, this is a BUSY tourist area. Even when wandering what appear to be ‘quieter’ streets remember to stay alert and keep your wits about you – avoid the hustle and bustle where possible.