FAQs About Morocco
What currency does Morocco use? How can I exchange money?
The Moroccan currency is the dirham, denoted by DH or MAD. There are 100 centimes to one dirham. Denominations of 200, 100, 50, 25, and 20 DH are in circulation, with more than one style of note currently available. Coins are available in denominations of 10, 5, 2 and 1 DH, or 50, 20, 10 and 5 centimes.
Is Morocco cheap?
As a general rule, life in Morocco costs between one- and two-thirds less than life in a developed Western nation. That said, certain items are expensive, including meat, imported goods, and luxury items such as electronic equipment and cars. Public transport is very reasonable and the prices of public staples such as bread, bottled cooking gas, and flour are government-controlled.
Is the water safe to drink?
Though Moroccan tap water is relatively safe, tourists should still drink bottled or boiled water and avoid drinking from public fountains. Resist the temptation to add ice to room-temperature beverages. Brushing your teeth with tap water is usually okay.
How conservatively should I dress?
In larger cities, Morocco continues to be at the crossroads of traditional and modern culture and still tolerant of foreign influences. As a visitor, it’s best to respect the locals with proper attire. Men should wear short- or long-sleeved shirts with long pants. Women should always cover their legs and shoulders. Very short skirts, shorts, and tank tops offend Moroccans, especially in smaller villages. Beachwear is strictly for the beach or private pools.
Do I need to speak Arabic?
Basic knowledge of Arabic and French phrases goes far, since these are Morocco’s official languages. Many locals speak a Moroccan Arabic dialect with rural Berber roots, while English is heard more often in shops, hotels, and restaurants in larger towns.
Is it possible to drink wine, beer, or alcohol here?
Although alcohol is forbidden by Islam, it is readily available in restaurants, bars, and hotels classified with three stars or more. Supermarkets also sell wine and spirits to foreigners with proper identification, except during the holy days of Ramadan.
How much should I tip?
Tipping between 10% and 15% is customary. Keep on hand small bills and coins for attendants, taxi drivers, and servers. Guides expect about 100 DH per each hour hired. If someone helps you find your way back to your hotel, a tip of 10 DH should be offered.
Do I need a visa or vaccinations?
Americans on a typical vacation do not require visas, though everyone must carry a valid passport. There are no mandatory vaccinations.
Can I use my cell phone and laptop in Morocco?
As long as international roaming is enabled on your quad-band GSM mobile phone, you should be able to make and receive calls, but you may incur a hefty surcharge for this service; data roaming is particularly expensive. If you want to use a Moroccan prepaid SIM card, ask your service provider to unlock your phone. Laptops work with a European French plug adapter. Wi-Fi is widely available, especially in hotels and cafés.
