As a physician and health coach who curates and leads women's wellness travel adventures for women around the globe, I've explored countless destinations and Morocco remains one of my all-time favorites! There is a reason why this magical country in northern Africa is such a hot travel destination—it has a vibrant culture, magnificent architecture and craftsmanship, stunning natural landscapes, delicious food, incredible hiking, and unsurpassed hospitality. While traveling in Morocco as a woman in a travel group or as a solo traveler is relatively safe and easy, I've learned quite a few helpful tips I now share with my guests to enhance their experience. From one girlfriend to another….
1. SPICES. Bring zip-lock bags to contain the smell in your luggage.
Spices from the markets in Morocco are excellent and cheaper than at home. But, they are sold in thin plastic bags that can stink up your luggage and clothes. On my first trip, I smelled like dinner for the last few days. Consider bringing a couple of zip lock or vacuum-sealed bags and wait toward the end of your trip to shop. A thin Sharpie or pen to write on the bags is also helpful since cumin and coriander can look similar once you get home.
2. HAMMAM. Take a bikini bottom.
The Hammam is a ritual body scrub for women. If you go to a private hammam, you will most likely sit in a beautiful tiled room with 1-3 other women wearing nothing but a bikini bottom as a woman douses you in hot water and exfoliates every visible inch of your skin with a mitt. In the end, you will feel like Cleopatra. I personally have sensitive skin and motion for them to go a little bit lighter with me. Heads up, if you have had breast surgery with sensitive regions, motion for them not to scrub there. Bring a plastic bag for your wet bikini if you are on the move shortly afterward.
3. OILS. Get from a reputable seller.
Jasmin-scented Argon oil, prickly pear oil, Neroli oil, and rose oil are all amazing and a fraction of the cost from home. However, there is significant variation in quality. If you are in Marrakesh, visit the shop Herbalism inside the medina. In addition to excellent quality and ethically sourced, they are very knowledgeable in natural medicine and will help you.
4. MASSAGE. Breast massage is standard in a body massage.
Unlike in the USA, breast massage is part of a full body massage at the spas in
Morocco. If you are modest, you can motion to avoid certain areas. Some spas will also use oils on your face and hair, so if you are going out right after, you can say no thank you.
5. RUGS. You will most likely want one, even if you didn't plan on it.
Rug shops take credit cards, bargain, and ship. Hand-woven Moroccan wool rugs by women from the desert or the mountains are spectacular works of art and can also be hung on a wall. Again, go to a reputable place such as Fadma Rugs in Marrakesh. Abdul is warm and knowledgeable with fair pricing. If you want to buy a rug, don't rush. You will be given tea and shown many options. Looking online before your trip
may help focus your search. If you buy a runner or thinner carpet,
It can usually be packed to fit in your luggage.
6. HEALTH. Bring Peptobismol, Imodium, antibiotics for travelers'
diarrhea, electrolytes, and Advil.
Getting sick while traveling is never fun. The locals will offer you tea with herbs for almost any ailment, which I have taken, but I found my OTC meds to be the quickest acting. It's also a great idea to have travel insurance with medical coverage and emergency evacuation, especially if you will be hiking or in more remote areas.
7. MONEY. Bring cash and an ATM card and go early in the day to the cash machine.
Don't rely on a credit card, especially outside the main cities. Use your ATM or go to the cash exchange to get Moroccan Dirhams. ATMs can run out of cash, so go earlier in the day if you can. You will be tipping A LOT! A note on tipping: If you have a massage or Hammam at your hotel or riad, tip the woman directly rather than add it to the general staff tip box.
8. ALCOHOL. You can ask your driver to stop at a liquor store.
Many places in Morocco won’t sell or serve wine. But, many will allow you to buy liquor and bring it with you. Double-check with your accommodations to confirm.
9. SHOES. Wear thick-soled, comfortable shoes.
Many of the streets in the medina are cobblestone, and while flip-flops or thin-soled shoes are
adorable, they can be very hard to walk in. But, you can buy the cutest ones there to wear at home.
10. PACKING. Bring a fold-up bag with you for shopping (Trust me, you will probably need it).
If you fly Royal Air Maroc, they allow two free checked bags on the flights. Bring a portable charger. Remember that chargers go in your carry-on, not checked luggage. Pack light. Morocco is a large country that often requires long-distance travel and multiple accommodations, so you won’t want to be burdened by large luggage. Most good Riads and hotels can do your laundry for a small fee-inquire in advance. Packing cubes can be a lifesaver for staying organized. While you will not have clothing restrictions in the main cities, it's best to be more conservative in the smaller towns and rural areas. I always suggest carrying a scarf in your bag, just in case.
11. APPS FOR SHARED TRAVEL.
Photocircle is fantastic for photo sharing. You can download the app before you go, create a group, and invite your friends. Splitwise is a straightforward way of keeping track of shared expenses. You can easily plug in all payments for automatic tabulation of who owes what.
12. SAFETY: Have Wi-Fi and use standard safety precautions.
Wi-Fi is very helpful for directions and messaging/calling on WhatsApp. You can get an inexpensive ESIM card from online sites such as Airelo or Holafly, or sign up for international calling from your carrier. Ask for the WA number from someone at your hotel. This can be helpful to find your way home or help with a reservation. If you need directions, ask a shop owner. People in the street may expect you to pay if they assist you. Traveling with a safety purse like the Travelon mini cross-body bag can be reassuring. Do not take photos of the men with monkeys or snakes in the main square in Marrakesh, or you will be harassed until you pay. There is very little catcalling- just some aggressive sellers. But, regular common sense and awareness of your surroundings is wise.
13. ATTITUDE. Expect the unexpected and go with it.
While traveling in Morocco is one of those magical places that will stay with you forever, it
can also include long car rides, electricity outings, road closures, and even a moody camel. Whatever happens, let it be part of the experience, and you will love this unforgettable adventure!!
Safe travel, and enjoy!!!
A version of this article was published in GO WORLD TRAVEL MAGAZINE.
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