Safety for Tourism in Morocco
Located in North Africa, Morocco is an exotic travel destination that attracts many Western tourists. The small Muslim country features romantic cities such as Casablanca and Tangier, as well as many breathtaking seaside resort towns. If you are planning a trip there, there are many things you should know beforehand to ensure your safety.
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Food
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Morocco features many spicy, delicious foods, and it is safe from an overall health point of view, according to the World Executive. However, travelers should avoid local water and ice and drink bottled water only. The street vendors may offer enticing new foods, but try to stick to restaurant food. Some of the local dishes, such as goat head and snails, may be too much for unaccustomed palates and stomachs.
In-Country Transportation
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Many tourists in Morocco want to experience the local way of life and utilize public transportation services. If you choose to use public transport, always stay awake and keep purses, bags, and packages near your body. If you are driving a rental car, always park in well-lit areas, as well as keep all valuables in the trunk. Walking tourists should never wear expensive jewelry and should wear their purses or bags in secure, crossed-over-alternate-shoulders positions. Men should carry their wallets in their front pockets.
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Clothing
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The Moroccan climate varies throughout the year and different regions. Backpacking tourists should not dress too casually when entering the country, as "hippie" clothing may give immigration authorities a reason to prevent entry. Be sure to wear a hat during the summertime to protect your face from harmful sun rays, and wear waterproof clothing when traveling during the wet season.
Women Tourists
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Morocco is a Muslim country, and women should always dress conservatively while traveling there. This means not showing too much leg, cleavage, or skin. Western women are at risk of harassment because some Moroccan men view Westerners as not being bound by religious social restrictions, according to Frommers. If you are subjected to catcalls, simply ignore them and show self-confidence and self-assuredness.
Terrorism Threats
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There are some turbulent areas in Morocco that should be avoided. For example, in the Western Sahara area, there are thousands of unexploded mine bombs, according to the U.S. Department of State. In 2007 there were several terrorist bombs in Casablanca that occurred outside the U.S. Consulate General and the American Language Center. The potential for terrorist attacks against Americans is still high, so avoid drawing attention to yourself. Try to blend in and do not be the loud, obnoxious American. Avoid wearing stereotypical American clothing, such as American tennis shoes or sports team garb.
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References
- Photo Credit Morocco image by charmedspirit from Fotolia.com
