A family from Morocco moved into our street about 2 years ago, and they're some of the loveliest people I've ever met. Within a month they'd had everyone on our street over for dinner and cups of tea. The food is amazing, and the music, dancing and storytelling after the meal is fabulous. If that's what one family can do for our street I can only imagine what an entire city of Moroccans must be like when you visit.
My wife worked with some moroccan immigrants and when she started telling them about our trip and the food we loved she said they literally cried. Before we went to moroccan almost two decades ago I remember researching it on the internet. The first thing I saw was "kidnapped in Morocco" and I thought 'uh oh' and it was literally about a couple getting to Morocco and losing their luggage and a moroccan lady they had arrived with housed them and fed them for a week and wouldn't take no OR money for an answer.
I'm 42 years old I've visited over 40 countries for work and leisure over the years, and NO PLACE has had an impact on me like Marrakesch, Morocco has. We leave on Monday 7th November and I have a lump in my throat thinking about it. Its stolen my heart and we loved it so much God brought me here to appreciate life and people. Amazing!!!!!
@@andym28 Is that in Spain or is that the northern part of morocco? Right now is the perfect weather in Morrocco but its NOT 'hot'. There were days we still wore jackets. Mind you its likely warmer than Spain.
I can't get over the extremely poor treatment of women and the horrendous hygiend. I've been to developing countries all over and non have had such poor refrigeration and they all treat women like humans.
My husband and I went to Marrakech around two years ago now and it was the best place we’ve ever visited. We stayed inside the walls in a riad and our experience the entire trip was nothing but positive. Of course you had to hackle prices for things in the soils and walking through the food areas at night was a bit of a challenge, but never once did we feel unsafe - in fact it was the opposite. Because it was always so busy, we felt like nothing *could* happen because there was so many people around. That doesn’t mean of course to take your eye off the ball and be lax with safety and security! We (and around 7 other tourists from around the world) did a 4 hour cycling tour of the city with three local boys from Pikala Bikes, stopping for lunch, coffee and bread along the way and getting to chat to those boys over lunch was eye-opening. The sweetest boys, sharing their experiences and culture. It was truly a great trip.
Next time stay next to a tannery outside of a tourist bubble and enjoy the awful human treatment you'll receive on the streets because you aren't staying in an area where tourists are "supposed to be" while struggling to breathe inside the hotel with the smell of rotting flesh. That was my "beautiful" experience of Marrakech.
I read where there are stray cats roaming the streets. Is this true? In the process of planning a trip to Morocco but I have an unexplained fear of cats.
My son and I just returned from spending a week in the Hostel Kech Vibe, in Marrakesh's old quarter. A place run by some of the nicest people on this good Earth. There is just so much to see and experience in Marrakech after starting the day with mint leaves/stems and hot water which makes a beautiful, refreshing drink, and is so good for one.. My own experience with the people of Marrakech is something that will remain with me forever. Such caring people. I never once felt in danger, day or night. These people watch out for you, people who are used to helping each other without a second thought, will treat you the exactly the same. In return we, as tourists, tipped small and often. The country is without a benefits system as we know it, so money must pass from hand to hand so everyone, whole families, can benefit. As an older traveler, I was treated with great respect and helped by people and hands unseen every time I slowed, or stumbled, or stopped to catch a breath. There was always someone happy to show me where to go, or the best place to sit to rest. Morocco has found a forever-place in my heart. I will never forget the people, the culture, or country. As-salamu alaykum.
NEVER use those exchange places at Marrakech Airport!!! If you need money at the airport, after you've been through the final security check (where your bags are scanned through an x-ray machine), turn right and head towards the departure terminal. On the left you will see two or three ATMs, use your credit or debit card to get cash there, you'll get a much better rate.
Your wife was very politically correct, in my opinion too much.... I as a Muslim hate some people in countries like Morocco , Tunisia and Egypt are molesting women. It is haram in Islam. You have the right to say that it is annoying. (And you should: Because it is not normal behaviour. Don't be like some "tolerant" westerners who say "yes, that is normal. Muslims are like that and you have to respect it.". No, not at all!)
@@andym28 As I live in Belgium, Brussels it was a Belgian company few years ago. Unfortunately it does not exist anymore, but I am sure you might find similar trips with a tour organiser, if you search internet 👍
I am coming back to Morocco this May. Looking forward to spending nearly a month in the South and then several days in Marrakesh, Fez and of course the beautiful blue city of Chefchaouen. Sharing this video with my fellow travelers. Lots of great advice. Thank you so much.
Great review of Marrakech. I did want to mention a few things. I’ve been there many times and my husband is from Marrakech. I absolutely love the city, but there are a few things to look out for. When going down the alleyways in the medina, if young men approach you offering to guide you out of the area where you are (because you look lost), say “no thank you” or “la shukran”. This is a common scam where they guide you to the tannery and expect money and there are people at the end pushing you to buy goods. Also, beware of your guides selling their service out in the square. You want to make sure it’s a service registered with the government. Now, after enjoying all of the hustle and bustle of Marrakech, if you need some time to wind down, go to Essaouira. It is a laid back city by the sea. It’s my favorite place (after Marrakech). It has a great vibe. I recommend Morocco to everyone, although I’m a bit biased, but I believe everyone should experience it. You are welcome to Morocco (you’ll hear that often).
I just said that above, loved Marrakesh but really love the ocean so Essaouira is my choice. The fish selection is unbelievable. When I pretend shop for riads online I'm always looking at Essaouira, even though I can never get that spelling right. WOuld have liked to see Agadir though.
Those two boys have no idea how lucky they are to get to see another part of the world that most people don't even know exists. I would love to see it.
I stumbled across your Strasbourg video awhile back and booked a trip there and had a wonderful experience! Now you have motivated me to travel to Morocco
We really enjoy the Wolters World videos! This one helped us prepare for our recent trip to Morocco, even when our experience was a little different. (Customs at the airport arriving and departing took just a few minutes - it was much more organized than some European countries we've visited; and we had no problem finding modern toilets - with toilet paper!). But we deeply appreciated the insights. A few more "don'ts" I would add - if you take a guided tour of the medina (strongly recommended), don't be surprised if you find yourself in a "sales" situation. Your guide will probably take you to carpet, spice, metalwork, etc. vendors, who will try to interest you in their wares. That's cool - in our experience, these were some of the best places in the medina. But don't feel any pressure whatsoever to buy, and know that if you don't want to buy anything, you will still be warmly thanked for visiting. Also, don't be rude, ever. This is great advice everywhere, but especially in Morocco, where 99.9% of the people are exceptionally polite. Finally, don't expect to be hassled for money from beggars. We have (many) more panhandlers on the Upper West Side of Manhattan than we encountered in all of Morocco, and they aren't nearly as polite. Hope this helps!
@@lovinglife7897 In Fes, we stayed at the Dar Arsama; in Marrakech, at the Chambres d'Amis. We would recommend both very highly. They were comfortable, very well located (both in the medinas) and the hosts were terrific. They were also great value for the money. In Casablanca, we stayed at the Hotel Gauthier, a very nice business hotel with a terrific staff and nice, clean rooms, but it was not a special experience. Hope this helps.
Just got back from Marrakech a couple of weeks ago, and I agree with this video 100%. The people are amazing, the food is outstanding (and don't be afraid to try the street food, some of the best food I had was on the street), and the city and the tours are well worth every penny. There was only one thing I really didn't like there, and that was they pushy sales tactic they use, it really ended up annoying me. But apart from that, highly recommend a visit there.
It takes some getting used to. But for many of them its not just a way of life, but its how they eat. We went to a carpet factory and my mother in law managed to get out of them without buying anything. Which we now regret, frankly if I were wealthy I'd be back in morocco shopping. One of the few places where you can buy from the literal maker.
we just went (Nov 2023) and they were happy to see us because the news scared people away after the earthquake. Lots of things were closed because of the instability of structures but we had a great time.
I have followed your videos as my family explores the world and I love every one! They're fast and to the point, and packed with exactly what I'm looking for. I feel like our families are similar as well so it's nice to see how we would get along in a country by watching how your family does. Definitely going to buy my kids soccer jerseys when we land in Morocco! haha. Keep up the great content!
Good video. Only thing I would say is that exchanging money in the airport gives you a really low rate. For example pound sterling was 7.63 Dirhams where as everyone else outside the airport are giving 12.3. That’s a huge difference and I was able to find exchange places quite easily.
I have a tip re. haggling that always works for me. If I see something I really like, I fix a price in my head that it's worth "to me" and regardless of what they're asking for it, I just tell them I only have x number of dirhams to spend on it, and if they want more, they can sell it to someone else. You do of course need to be sensitive to how much work, effort and expertise may have gone into making something, you don't want to insult the seller. On a visit to Chefchaouen (in the North of Morocco) I took a shine to a painting that the seller wanted 700 dirhams for. I had seen the artist outside the shop knocking out each painting in 10 minutes flat, so I said I would pay no more than 200. That 200 dirham painting now hangs on my dining room wall.
Marrakech and Morocco are amazing. Staying in a Riyhad is like being in an old Hollwood movie. But be aware, that not all owners are looking out for their guest’s interests. They have their own network of guides, taxis, etc…which may not be the best. “Official” guides arranged through your hotel can also be sort of scammy. Sometimes we had better luck hiring guides in the street.
Growing up in Greece in the 80s I do remember how haggling used to be everywhere here and boy oh boy did I get real tired of it when we went to Egypt. In the end we were so exasperated by all that to and fro and long negotiations for one silly t-shirt that we just bought 2 fridge magnets and an ashtray. In the airport on the way back. Where it was the only place in Egypt that had price stickers on things and one would just pay what was on them instead of wasting time.
If you want to buy a rug, offer 1/4 of the price and remain firm. If they won't sell it to you, go to a different rug shop. Don't pay 1000% markup on a rug...
Just got back from a 5 day trip and loved the place. Once you get used to the taxi drivers and how much a ride should cost - you'll be fine (google what the price of the meters should be and although they will never be turned on, you will avoid getting ripped off).
how much is a public bathhouse and massage that's not overcrowded but not tourists-targeted. thanks for sharing the beautiful architecture. did you use your cell to film?
Wow, and I thought Algerians and Moroccans didn't get along:) How safe is Algeria for travelling these days, two decades ago they said it was kind of dangerous.
I see this video is three years old! I been to Cairo a couple of times, before apps you got scammed every time you grabbed a taxi because you don’t know what to pay! Everything changed with apps. I was going by taxi every day without problems. So do we have ride share apps now in Morocco?
As westerners we need to remember, people love and hate lots about our countries too. So be open-minded, respect the culture(s), and engage with the people who live there. We would want the same for our own home country regarding travelers.
Great video, so informative. But have you been through the customs line at LAX? No smart gate just old fashioned people in booths, that airport is the bane of my existence.
It's lovely, we are here just right now. Been all over, Madina, local market, Casablanca, hot airballon tour... But traffic and driving... its the most nightmare 😂
The aggressive "haggle culture" was the one thing I didn't like. And it wasn't just the "negotiating." It got so that it seemed that I couldn't even cast a casual glance at a shop window/display without someone running out of the shop to reel me in.
Thinking on going to Marrakech next. I always enjoy your videos on all places around the world. Very helpful and a good starting point. Also the video on Switzerland ( where l am from) is very accurate. Thank you for these great travel insights.
You have such a kind voice! Funny haggling story- I was in the Grand Bazaar of Istanbul and realized I'd forgotten my wallet at the hotel. I was in the middle of looking at shoes I wanted to buy, and as I explained that I had to go back and retrieve my wallet, the man thought I was haggling and kept lowering the price! 😂 I felt sooo stupid because there was no time to go back before I had to hit the airport. Thank you for your travel tips!
is it safe for a solo woman traveler? also if you can share tips for clothing. is sleeveless fine? does having a shawl better? should skirts and dresses be knee-high?
Is the passport number thing new? I was in Morocco in 2019, and I don’t remember that at all. I never had to give a number at any hotels, and I just looked at my passport & there wasn’t a number written
The late ride due to *zipping through customs* happened to me in Romania. Arranged car service with my hotel in Bucharest and I guess I got lucky and blazed through. Waited outside for close to 30 minutes. Super nice driver. He was shocked and said customs usually takes a bit. 😐😆
Surprised you even bothered pre-arranging a car service. When I was last in Romania you could get a taxi to anywhere in the country at a moments notice for next to nothing.
Hi Mark, my wife and I are planning a trip for 3 weeks in the Spring. Can you speak to visits by older couples who can't do so much walking and standing in the medina? Also, how much Moroccan cash should you get at the airport ATM as an older couple for 2-3 weeks? Can you talk about issues of sanitation and food? What risks are there?
Hey i live in Marrakech and i was born here ... all i want to say is that there are a lot of scammers so pay attention ... enjoy your time here there is aaa lootttt of things to do ...
Just returned from Marrakech. Unfortunately we won't be returning on account of the airport experience. Horrendous queuing due to inefficient processing of passengers. A real shame!
You will get a much better exchange rate in Jema el Fna. Don't trust anyone who is approaching you in the Jemaa el Fna place or the médina. When someone tells you it's a dead end don't listen, usually they just try to disturb you so you get lost. For the Taxi you shouldn't have to bargain, it's better to know the price and to pay without asking for the price. If you ask, the driver will charge you ten times more. If you are not familiar with the traditions of Marrakesh or Fez or Casablanca it's better to start your trip with another city like Rabat, there are a lot of nice town where you won't find the scamer problem.
I have discovered your channel just recently, and I really like it a lot. I like the "Donts and Do's", the "Love and Hates" and the positive Shocks. No matter if its positive or negative, you are always respectul, honest and positive (even about things that you dont like so much). Also, I really like how your family is included. Concerning Marrakesh: I have probably the same "love and hate" relationship with that amazing place like you. Hopefully I will be able to travel there again soon.
Pro tip: Always get a seat in the first 5-10 rows in the plane. Be one of the least people to get on board and be one of the first to get off. Head to customs like your life depended on it unless you have to board a bus. Then it doesn't matter.
Despite being sexually and physically abused/harassed, and scammed, during my time in Marrakesh, I very much enjoyed the city! That food there is incredible and the bargaining in the souks is a lot of fun!
Wait what? I'm so sorry to hear that ! :( that's truly awful! Did you travel alone by any chance ? I plan on traveling the Maghreb states as a solo female and was kind of worried about sexual harassment. I also have a pretty large bust so that just adds to my worry:(
@@hayal6539 probably a good idea to wear a little bit more covering clothes to not attract too much attention. I wouldn’t necessarily travel completely alone as a female traveller. I’ve been in Baghdad two times but never went anywhere alone. Everyone there treated me very respectfully and iraqi people were kind and hospitable. But I would not go there alone!
If you have hates about marrakesh your an odd traveller. There is a chance you may be robbed, so take precautions. other than that, I found nothin but positives.
I love your travel energy and enthusiasm. You need to be strong physically and mentally to travel. I am not that strong: I get annoyed easily, and I hate being uncomfortable. When I was younger, I used to be bolder, eat whatever I found in the streets, and sleep in the sand. Now I want my normal hotel, I want to be clean and comfortable. As far as I go is Spain. France is a little bit too far, and Paris is too much for me. Spanish cities have the right size. I also enjoy some cities and nice beaches in Latin America. I would love to go to Asia, but a 20-hour flight is not for me. I am such a coward. Mexico and the US are my favorite travel destinations. Yucatan is very nice, Mexico City, Queretaro, Seattle, Washington, New Orleans. Besides, with people like you, traveling all over the world, I kind of get a good idea of what is like. So I live vicariously through people like you. Thank you for sharing those amazing experiences and for being so brave.
100% spot on. I love Marrakech for all its imperfections but one thing that annoyed me the most was when you get lost in those alley ways . Trust no one as every single person will want to make some money off you and take you for a ride (My experience). But when you see the brotherhood amongst them, you kind of mellow down a bit, to think that there is humanity in these people after all. The reason is huge divide between the rich and the poor, typical of the third world countries. They are however blessed with the weather, fruits and veg are in abundance and the culture is rich in history. Do visit Thumbs up (despite all the negative). :)
How is the language barrier in Marrakech? I really want to visit the city, but being a solo traveler (male) who speaks english mainly when he travels, I'm worried if that's going to be an issue in most situations and if it makes you an easy target for scams/theft
Every single person in Marrakesh that interacts with tourists speaks 10 languages. I speak 4 and kept switching languages to avoid the aggressive vendors but they kept switching with me LOL
Not knowing the language is a great way out, but most speak english. Arabic I think is the national language but most know french and spanish in the north.
I really disliked Marrakech. Was verbally abused for not wanting somebody to show me around the Souks for silly money. Constantly harassed and I’ve been to 50 countries and never been hassled anywhere near as much as I was in Marrakech (and Fez for that matter). Tangier is far far better believe me.They are much more chilled out in Tangier.
Hi Mark, I’m planning to visit Marrakech with friends in the end of December and on our retuning flight from RAK to New York JFK, we have to make a transfer at CMN that is only 1 hour apart for our destination flight to JFK, I assume we go through custom at CMN, is one hour too tight to make the transfer? Any tips are appreciated. Thank you.
If young men are leering at you should say in Arabic "Itaq'Allah" Which means Fear God and follow it up with "Ghadd al-Basr" which is the Quranic injunction to lower ones gaze when passing women in public. They will be both shocked that you know and ashamed at their own actions (as they should be). Hope this helps :)
A family from Morocco moved into our street about 2 years ago, and they're some of the loveliest people I've ever met. Within a month they'd had everyone on our street over for dinner and cups of tea. The food is amazing, and the music, dancing and storytelling after the meal is fabulous. If that's what one family can do for our street I can only imagine what an entire city of Moroccans must be like when you visit.
Thnx a lot fr yr nice words, glad to hear these
Your right when my wife left me in the uk with three kids my morrocan nebouirs came and helped me with them they were a lovely famaily
@@stephenosborne9900 Alhamdulilah, God bless u
My wife worked with some moroccan immigrants and when she started telling them about our trip and the food we loved she said they literally cried. Before we went to moroccan almost two decades ago I remember researching it on the internet. The first thing I saw was "kidnapped in Morocco" and I thought 'uh oh' and it was literally about a couple getting to Morocco and losing their luggage and a moroccan lady they had arrived with housed them and fed them for a week and wouldn't take no OR money for an answer.
@@sam-ci8lz 😂😂 that made me chuckle, Moroccan here
I'm 42 years old
I've visited over 40 countries for work and leisure over the years, and NO PLACE has had an impact on me like Marrakesch, Morocco has. We leave on Monday 7th November and I have a lump in my throat thinking about it. Its stolen my heart and we loved it so much
God brought me here to appreciate life and people. Amazing!!!!!
I'm going to andalucia because the weather in the uk is bad but I will take your advice.
😍😍😍😍
@@andym28 Is that in Spain or is that the northern part of morocco? Right now is the perfect weather in Morrocco but its NOT 'hot'. There were days we still wore jackets. Mind you its likely warmer than Spain.
I can't get over the extremely poor treatment of women and the horrendous hygiend. I've been to developing countries all over and non have had such poor refrigeration and they all treat women like humans.
@@mrb152we also treat women as humans what are you on
My husband and I went to Marrakech around two years ago now and it was the best place we’ve ever visited. We stayed inside the walls in a riad and our experience the entire trip was nothing but positive. Of course you had to hackle prices for things in the soils and walking through the food areas at night was a bit of a challenge, but never once did we feel unsafe - in fact it was the opposite. Because it was always so busy, we felt like nothing *could* happen because there was so many people around. That doesn’t mean of course to take your eye off the ball and be lax with safety and security! We (and around 7 other tourists from around the world) did a 4 hour cycling tour of the city with three local boys from Pikala Bikes, stopping for lunch, coffee and bread along the way and getting to chat to those boys over lunch was eye-opening. The sweetest boys, sharing their experiences and culture. It was truly a great trip.
This made my daaay 🥺 Truly !! ❤️❤️ so gald u enjoyed ur time here.
That's great, I am glad fr u 😍🤩
Morocco is hurting now. Tourism is a large portion of their economy and has been gutted by covid.
Next time stay next to a tannery outside of a tourist bubble and enjoy the awful human treatment you'll receive on the streets because you aren't staying in an area where tourists are "supposed to be" while struggling to breathe inside the hotel with the smell of rotting flesh. That was my "beautiful" experience of Marrakech.
I read where there are stray cats roaming the streets. Is this true? In the process of planning a trip to Morocco but I have an unexplained fear of cats.
My son and I just returned from spending a week in the Hostel Kech Vibe, in Marrakesh's old quarter. A place run by some of the nicest people on this good Earth.
There is just so much to see and experience in Marrakech after starting the day with mint leaves/stems and hot water which makes a beautiful, refreshing drink, and is so good for one..
My own experience with the people of Marrakech is something that will remain with me forever. Such caring people.
I never once felt in danger, day or night. These people watch out for you, people who are used to helping each other without a second thought, will treat you the exactly the same.
In return we, as tourists, tipped small and often. The country is without a benefits system as we know it, so money must pass from hand to hand so everyone, whole families, can benefit.
As an older traveler, I was treated with great respect and helped by people and hands unseen every time I slowed, or stumbled, or stopped to catch a breath. There was always someone happy to show me where to go, or the best place to sit to rest.
Morocco has found a forever-place in my heart. I will never forget the people, the culture, or country.
As-salamu alaykum.
NEVER use those exchange places at Marrakech Airport!!! If you need money at the airport, after you've been through the final security check (where your bags are scanned through an x-ray machine), turn right and head towards the departure terminal. On the left you will see two or three ATMs, use your credit or debit card to get cash there, you'll get a much better rate.
Thnx
Doesn’t work with cash
Rates are based on the market upon that day .
I've been to Marrakech many times and I love staying in riads in the Medina. They are so cozy and beautiful.
LOVED Jocelyn’s perspective on traveling here. It’s great for women to know these things before traveling to plan accordingly.
I am from Marrakech but lived most of my life in North America. I enjoyed this video so much. Very sound advice from passionate people. Many thanks.
Your wife was very politically correct, in my opinion too much.... I as a Muslim hate some people in countries like Morocco , Tunisia and Egypt are molesting women. It is haram in Islam. You have the right to say that it is annoying. (And you should: Because it is not normal behaviour. Don't be like some "tolerant" westerners who say "yes, that is normal. Muslims are like that and you have to respect it.". No, not at all!)
I love Morocco 💕 People, food, colours, overall experience. I recommend to the whole guided country tour and visit Casablanca, Fez, Rabat, Tangier.
Do you have the details of the company you went with?
@@andym28 As I live in Belgium, Brussels it was a Belgian company few years ago. Unfortunately it does not exist anymore, but I am sure you might find similar trips with a tour organiser, if you search internet 👍
I am coming back to Morocco this May. Looking forward to spending nearly a month in the South and then several days in Marrakesh, Fez and of course the beautiful blue city of Chefchaouen. Sharing this video with my fellow travelers. Lots of great advice. Thank you so much.
Great review of Marrakech. I did want to mention a few things. I’ve been there many times and my husband is from Marrakech. I absolutely love the city, but there are a few things to look out for. When going down the alleyways in the medina, if young men approach you offering to guide you out of the area where you are (because you look lost), say “no thank you” or “la shukran”. This is a common scam where they guide you to the tannery and expect money and there are people at the end pushing you to buy goods. Also, beware of your guides selling their service out in the square. You want to make sure it’s a service registered with the government. Now, after enjoying all of the hustle and bustle of Marrakech, if you need some time to wind down, go to Essaouira. It is a laid back city by the sea. It’s my favorite place (after Marrakech). It has a great vibe. I recommend Morocco to everyone, although I’m a bit biased, but I believe everyone should experience it. You are welcome to Morocco (you’ll hear that often).
I just said that above, loved Marrakesh but really love the ocean so Essaouira is my choice. The fish selection is unbelievable. When I pretend shop for riads online I'm always looking at Essaouira, even though I can never get that spelling right. WOuld have liked to see Agadir though.
Morocco is one of the most beautiful countries we've visited so far, and we've been to many places around the world! ♥
*Dear Wolters, I admit you are hugely popular, just would like to reiterate again that this video has been of tremendous help man! Thanks a lot!*
Marrakech... absolutely stunning place and the people are lovely..
Those two boys have no idea how lucky they are to get to see another part of the world that most people don't even know exists.
I would love to see it.
I stumbled across your Strasbourg video awhile back and booked a trip there and had a wonderful experience! Now you have motivated me to travel to Morocco
Went last year with family and loved every moment, it truly is magical and left an impact on me and all who travelled with me.
We really enjoy the Wolters World videos! This one helped us prepare for our recent trip to Morocco, even when our experience was a little different. (Customs at the airport arriving and departing took just a few minutes - it was much more organized than some European countries we've visited; and we had no problem finding modern toilets - with toilet paper!). But we deeply appreciated the insights. A few more "don'ts" I would add - if you take a guided tour of the medina (strongly recommended), don't be surprised if you find yourself in a "sales" situation. Your guide will probably take you to carpet, spice, metalwork, etc. vendors, who will try to interest you in their wares. That's cool - in our experience, these were some of the best places in the medina. But don't feel any pressure whatsoever to buy, and know that if you don't want to buy anything, you will still be warmly thanked for visiting. Also, don't be rude, ever. This is great advice everywhere, but especially in Morocco, where 99.9% of the people are exceptionally polite. Finally, don't expect to be hassled for money from beggars. We have (many) more panhandlers on the Upper West Side of Manhattan than we encountered in all of Morocco, and they aren't nearly as polite. Hope this helps!
Hello where did you stay
@@lovinglife7897 In Fes, we stayed at the Dar Arsama; in Marrakech, at the Chambres d'Amis. We would recommend both very highly. They were comfortable, very well located (both in the medinas) and the hosts were terrific. They were also great value for the money. In Casablanca, we stayed at the Hotel Gauthier, a very nice business hotel with a terrific staff and nice, clean rooms, but it was not a special experience. Hope this helps.
Anyone that watches our Morocco channel knows that my wife is the better haggler. We have video proof and she gives you all the tips :p
Andrea deserves a Moroccan nationality.
@@imax2000 lol she is the money master at the Moroccan souk.
👍
Thank you Walter and your family. I liked your review its polite, great and very helpful and informative.
Just got back from Marrakech a couple of weeks ago, and I agree with this video 100%. The people are amazing, the food is outstanding (and don't be afraid to try the street food, some of the best food I had was on the street), and the city and the tours are well worth every penny. There was only one thing I really didn't like there, and that was they pushy sales tactic they use, it really ended up annoying me. But apart from that, highly recommend a visit there.
It takes some getting used to. But for many of them its not just a way of life, but its how they eat. We went to a carpet factory and my mother in law managed to get out of them without buying anything. Which we now regret, frankly if I were wealthy I'd be back in morocco shopping. One of the few places where you can buy from the literal maker.
What are your thoughts about food sanitation? Have you visited other cities like Essouira, Tangiers, Casablanca etc ?
we just went (Nov 2023) and they were happy to see us because the news scared people away after the earthquake. Lots of things were closed because of the instability of structures but we had a great time.
I have followed your videos as my family explores the world and I love every one! They're fast and to the point, and packed with exactly what I'm looking for. I feel like our families are similar as well so it's nice to see how we would get along in a country by watching how your family does. Definitely going to buy my kids soccer jerseys when we land in Morocco! haha. Keep up the great content!
Great balance view. Thank you for this video!
This is so so helpful thank you very much for this video. I’m flying out on Monday and I can’t wait!!!
how ur holiday went ? did u enjoy marrakech ?
Good video. Only thing I would say is that exchanging money in the airport gives you a really low rate. For example pound sterling was 7.63 Dirhams where as everyone else outside the airport are giving 12.3. That’s a huge difference and I was able to find exchange places quite easily.
I love your travel tips. We are going to Morocco in March and your channel is very helpful.
have just got back to new zealand from a holiday in morocco it was amazing everyone was so gentle i’m 71
I have a tip re. haggling that always works for me. If I see something I really like, I fix a price in my head that it's worth "to me" and regardless of what they're asking for it, I just tell them I only have x number of dirhams to spend on it, and if they want more, they can sell it to someone else.
You do of course need to be sensitive to how much work, effort and expertise may have gone into making something, you don't want to insult the seller.
On a visit to Chefchaouen (in the North of Morocco) I took a shine to a painting that the seller wanted 700 dirhams for. I had seen the artist outside the shop knocking out each painting in 10 minutes flat, so I said I would pay no more than 200. That 200 dirham painting now hangs on my dining room wall.
Thanks for sharing. This information is very helpful for my fall trip.
Awesome video! Learnt so much. Thank you
Marrakech and Morocco are amazing. Staying in a Riyhad is like being in an old Hollwood movie. But be aware, that not all owners are looking out for their guest’s interests. They have their own network of guides, taxis, etc…which may not be the best. “Official” guides arranged through your hotel can also be sort of scammy. Sometimes we had better luck hiring guides in the street.
Thank you for this beautiful video of information about Morocco, an openness to the fact that this country is beautiful in terms of culture and people
Thanks for your insights, guys!
Your kids are gorgeous! Thanks for all the great info!
Growing up in Greece in the 80s I do remember how haggling used to be everywhere here and boy oh boy did I get real tired of it when we went to Egypt. In the end we were so exasperated by all that to and fro and long negotiations for one silly t-shirt that we just bought 2 fridge magnets and an ashtray. In the airport on the way back. Where it was the only place in Egypt that had price stickers on things and one would just pay what was on them instead of wasting time.
When I went everybody was on the make!! Everyone wanted something from you, everyone!!!
If you want to buy a rug, offer 1/4 of the price and remain firm. If they won't sell it to you, go to a different rug shop. Don't pay 1000% markup on a rug...
The best advice I received from my Moroccan friends in Tangiers: ALWAYS start your haggling at 50% off the cost the merchant first tells you.
i'm going there in a week thanks for the advice
Such a great video. Love your energy and all the useful tips !
Just got back from a 5 day trip and loved the place. Once you get used to the taxi drivers and how much a ride should cost - you'll be fine (google what the price of the meters should be and although they will never be turned on, you will avoid getting ripped off).
how much is a public bathhouse and massage that's not overcrowded but not tourists-targeted. thanks for sharing the beautiful architecture. did you use your cell to film?
No hate just love for this city i'm Algerian ❤️❤️❤️❤️ my husband is From Morocco , everything is good there especially the food ❤️❤️❤️😊😊
Wow, and I thought Algerians and Moroccans didn't get along:) How safe is Algeria for travelling these days, two decades ago they said it was kind of dangerous.
I see this video is three years old! I been to Cairo a couple of times, before apps you got scammed every time you grabbed a taxi because you don’t know what to pay! Everything changed with apps. I was going by taxi every day without problems. So do we have ride share apps now in Morocco?
Excellent video .👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽
As westerners we need to remember, people love and hate lots about our countries too. So be open-minded, respect the culture(s), and engage with the people who live there. We would want the same for our own home country regarding travelers.
Thanks for the video!
Great video, so informative. But have you been through the customs line at LAX? No smart gate just old fashioned people in booths, that airport is the bane of my existence.
Amazing Video, thnx fr sharing i can't wait to see yr next videos 🤩
The Riyad is the old moroccan houses..thank you for visiting my country
Your vids are kind of a big deal (for me). Thanks for always helping us our. Headed to Morocco this year!
thanks for the practical tips, especially the negative ones
It's lovely, we are here just right now. Been all over, Madina, local market, Casablanca, hot airballon tour...
But traffic and driving... its the most nightmare 😂
Me gusta tu vedio y como has hablado sobre Marrakech y todo Marruecos. Muchas suerte y gracias por la vuelta👏👏👏🍀🌻
The aggressive "haggle culture" was the one thing I didn't like. And it wasn't just the "negotiating." It got so that it seemed that I couldn't even cast a casual glance at a shop window/display without someone running out of the shop to reel me in.
Just say mbghitch or just have a moroccan with you
Thinking on going to Marrakech next. I always enjoy your videos on all places around the world. Very helpful and a good starting point. Also the video on Switzerland ( where l am from) is very accurate.
Thank you for these great travel insights.
thank you!
You have such a kind voice! Funny haggling story- I was in the Grand Bazaar of Istanbul and realized I'd forgotten my wallet at the hotel. I was in the middle of looking at shoes I wanted to buy, and as I explained that I had to go back and retrieve my wallet, the man thought I was haggling and kept lowering the price! 😂 I felt sooo stupid because there was no time to go back before I had to hit the airport. Thank you for your travel tips!
Do I hear My Heart Will Go On in the background?
I found Strasbourg through your videos and loved the city and now im am planning on visiting Morocco 🇲🇦
is it safe for a solo woman traveler? also if you can share tips for clothing. is sleeveless fine? does having a shawl better? should skirts and dresses be knee-high?
Welcome to Dakhla capital of kite surfing & oysters tagine ❤❤❤
Is the passport number thing new? I was in Morocco in 2019, and I don’t remember that at all. I never had to give a number at any hotels, and I just looked at my passport & there wasn’t a number written
Tank you for those advices ❤️❤️
“no one wants to remember being impaled by a donkey”
You won’t get that advice anywhere else, folks. Thanks, Mark.
That would be a great travel story-- "a beast impaled me!! No, I wasn't in Pamplona running with the bulls, it was a donkey in Marrakech!"
The late ride due to *zipping through customs* happened to me in Romania. Arranged car service with my hotel in Bucharest and I guess I got lucky and blazed through. Waited outside for close to 30 minutes. Super nice driver. He was shocked and said customs usually takes a bit. 😐😆
Surprised you even bothered pre-arranging a car service. When I was last in Romania you could get a taxi to anywhere in the country at a moments notice for next to nothing.
Omg you’re adorable!! Thanks for sharing
Hi Mark, my wife and I are planning a trip for 3 weeks in the Spring. Can you speak to visits by older couples who can't do so much walking and standing in the medina? Also, how much Moroccan cash should you get at the airport ATM as an older couple for 2-3 weeks? Can you talk about issues of sanitation and food? What risks are there?
Hey i live in Marrakech and i was born here ... all i want to say is that there are a lot of scammers so pay attention ... enjoy your time here there is aaa lootttt of things to do ...
Amazing video bosses, can't wait to return to Morocco again!
Hello! Can you please tell the name of the riad you lived in? The photo with the pool is amazing
Just returned from Marrakech. Unfortunately we won't be returning on account of the airport experience. Horrendous queuing due to inefficient processing of passengers. A real shame!
At one point Morocco was like a second home to me. I miss it.
You will get a much better exchange rate in Jema el Fna.
Don't trust anyone who is approaching you in the Jemaa el Fna place or the médina. When someone tells you it's a dead end don't listen, usually they just try to disturb you so you get lost.
For the Taxi you shouldn't have to bargain, it's better to know the price and to pay without asking for the price. If you ask, the driver will charge you ten times more.
If you are not familiar with the traditions of Marrakesh or Fez or Casablanca it's better to start your trip with another city like Rabat, there are a lot of nice town where you won't find the scamer problem.
I have discovered your channel just recently, and I really like it a lot. I like the "Donts and Do's", the "Love and Hates" and the positive Shocks. No matter if its positive or negative, you are always respectul, honest and positive (even about things that you dont like so much). Also, I really like how your family is included.
Concerning Marrakesh: I have probably the same "love and hate" relationship with that amazing place like you. Hopefully I will be able to travel there again soon.
Pro tip: Always get a seat in the first 5-10 rows in the plane. Be one of the least people to get on board and be one of the first to get off. Head to customs like your life depended on it unless you have to board a bus. Then it doesn't matter.
Despite being sexually and physically abused/harassed, and scammed, during my time in Marrakesh, I very much enjoyed the city! That food there is incredible and the bargaining in the souks is a lot of fun!
Wait what? I'm so sorry to hear that ! :( that's truly awful! Did you travel alone by any chance ?
I plan on traveling the Maghreb states as a solo female and was kind of worried about sexual harassment. I also have a pretty large bust so that just adds to my worry:(
@@hayal6539 omg not alone girl ,no way ,I advise any girl to never travel alone to those countries
@@Србомбоница86 youre being dramatic
@@stevend481 yup ,I am a girl and should be very careful in morroco
@@hayal6539 probably a good idea to wear a little bit more covering clothes to not attract too much attention. I wouldn’t necessarily travel completely alone as a female traveller. I’ve been in Baghdad two times but never went anywhere alone. Everyone there treated me very respectfully and iraqi people were kind and hospitable. But I would not go there alone!
Great video!
How can you speak so fast?
Its a gift :)
I’m going next year and I can’t wait
Love Morocco...love Marrakech.
If you have hates about marrakesh your an odd traveller. There is a chance you may be robbed, so take precautions. other than that, I found nothin but positives.
Does Morocco have Ubers or Lyft or anything type of transportation like that to avoid taxis?
There's Indrive..it's like Uber
If you pay 25% off the starting price as you recommend, (3:45) you are getting totally ripped off.
Some great tips, I’m off to Marrakesh with my family soon for a couple of days, it’s going to be hot 😃
I only love Marrakech.. Because I already know my expectation where ever I travel to..
I'm the bargainer in my family too. My husband is easily convinced and doesn't want to deal with the hassle.
The medina's great for picking up fake pairs of Yeezy sneakers
🤣🤣🤣🤣
How much you pay?
@@danielopezx01 Around 20 to 45 bucks depending on where it was manufactured 😎
I love your travel energy and enthusiasm. You need to be strong physically and mentally to travel. I am not that strong: I get annoyed easily, and I hate being uncomfortable. When I was younger, I used to be bolder, eat whatever I found in the streets, and sleep in the sand. Now I want my normal hotel, I want to be clean and comfortable. As far as I go is Spain. France is a little bit too far, and Paris is too much for me. Spanish cities have the right size. I also enjoy some cities and nice beaches in Latin America. I would love to go to Asia, but a 20-hour flight is not for me. I am such a coward. Mexico and the US are my favorite travel destinations. Yucatan is very nice, Mexico City, Queretaro, Seattle, Washington, New Orleans. Besides, with people like you, traveling all over the world, I kind of get a good idea of what is like. So I live vicariously through people like you. Thank you for sharing those amazing experiences and for being so brave.
4:08 did the seller said no photography? Whats Moroccans take on us taking photos / videos?
They don't like stranger to take their photo..
The Snake charmers etc will want payment if you take photo
Where should I stay ? Recommendations please
I liked the ysl museum there
100% spot on. I love Marrakech for all its imperfections but one thing that annoyed me the most was when you get lost in those alley ways . Trust no one as every single person will want to make some money off you and take you for a ride (My experience). But when you see the brotherhood amongst them, you kind of mellow down a bit, to think that there is humanity in these people after all.
The reason is huge divide between the rich and the poor, typical of the third world countries.
They are however blessed with the weather, fruits and veg are in abundance and the culture is rich in history. Do visit
Thumbs up (despite all the negative). :)
How is the language barrier in Marrakech? I really want to visit the city, but being a solo traveler (male) who speaks english mainly when he travels, I'm worried if that's going to be an issue in most situations and if it makes you an easy target for scams/theft
Every single person in Marrakesh that interacts with tourists speaks 10 languages. I speak 4 and kept switching languages to avoid the aggressive vendors but they kept switching with me LOL
@@jondover8128 😂😂
Not knowing the language is a great way out, but most speak english. Arabic I think is the national language but most know french and spanish in the north.
Loved this. Thank you. Is this a place you tip at the restaurants? It's just stunning!!
Yeah u can tip from 5 to 20 dh it’s depend on the service
@@younesbzr81 Thank you!
@@musingsatmidlife5278 u wlcm and ‘’dh’’ means dirham 0.5$= 5 dh
I really disliked Marrakech.
Was verbally abused for not wanting somebody to show me around the Souks for silly money.
Constantly harassed and I’ve been to 50 countries and never been hassled anywhere near as much as I was in Marrakech (and Fez for that matter).
Tangier is far far better believe me.They are much more chilled out in Tangier.
How do I avoid the snakes in the square? I’m terrified
Hi Mark, I’m planning to visit Marrakech with friends in the end of December and on our retuning flight from RAK to New York JFK, we have to make a transfer at CMN that is only 1 hour apart for our destination flight to JFK, I assume we go through custom at CMN, is one hour too tight to make the transfer? Any tips are appreciated. Thank you.
I have same question for my next trip to Marrakech. What was your experience for transfer at CMN? Is one hour is too tight to make transfer
@@mimdipu it’s tight but if your flights are on time, you can still make it but you have to run!
If young men are leering at you should say in Arabic "Itaq'Allah" Which means Fear God and follow it up with "Ghadd al-Basr" which is the Quranic injunction to lower ones gaze when passing women in public. They will be both shocked that you know and ashamed at their own actions (as they should be). Hope this helps :)
Please add the spices stalls…amazing!
When the guy from Wisconsin says it's cold at night, you better believe it's cold ❄️❄️❄️
Getting lost is my favorite thing about traveling.