Marrakech Unveiled

Marrakech is a modern city with traditional values. Understanding basic cultural etiquette will enhance your experience and show respect for local traditions:

• Dress modestly: While tourist areas are accustomed to Western dress, covering shoulders and knees shows respect, especially when visiting religious sites or residential neighborhoods.
• Photography etiquette: Always ask permission before photographing people. Many craftspeople and performers expect a small tip (5-10 dirhams) in return.
• Religious sensitivity: Non-Muslims cannot enter mosques in Morocco (except Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca). Avoid photographing people in prayer.
• Ramadan considerations: If visiting during Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours out of respect.

Moroccan food culture combines Arabian, Berber, and Mediterranean influences, with its own unique customs:

• Hand etiquette: If eating traditional style (without utensils), use only your right hand for eating. The left hand is considered unclean.
• Communal dining: Many Moroccan dishes are served in a central tagine or plate for everyone to share. Take food from the section of the plate nearest to you.
• Bread usage: Bread is used as both an eating utensil and to soak up sauces. Never throw away bread, as it's considered sacred.
• Tea ceremonies: Moroccan mint tea is poured from height to create a light foam. It's customary to accept at least two glasses when offered.

Bargaining is a cultural institution in Marrakech, not just a way to save money but a social interaction with its own rituals and expectations:

Follow these guidelines for respectful and effective bargaining:

• Start low: Begin at around 30-40% of the initial asking price
• Be patient: Rushing shows eagerness and weakens your position
• Stay friendly: Maintain a good-humored, respectful attitude—it's a game, not a battle
• Walk away: Being willing to leave is your strongest negotiating tool
• Know when not to bargain: Fixed-price shops, food vendors, and taxis using meters are not situations for bargaining

Before beginning, have a maximum price in mind based on what the item is worth to you. Once you agree on a price, honor it—backing out after agreement is considered very poor form.

Having a sense of appropriate price ranges helps you bargain more effectively. While prices change over time, these guidelines can help you understand what constitutes a fair deal:

• Small leather items (wallets, pouches): 80-150 dirhams
• Leather babouche slippers: 120-250 dirhams depending on quality
• Small tagine cooking pot: 90-200 dirhams
• Scarves: 50-150 dirhams for standard cotton/viscose
• Spices: 20-40 dirhams per 100g for most varieties
• Small painted wooden items: 30-100 dirhams

Remember that items with significant craftsmanship (hand-knotted carpets, fine leather, intricate woodcarving) deserve respect in pricing. Extremely low prices often indicate poor quality materials or unfair labor practices.

Marrakech is generally a safe city for visitors, but as in any tourist destination, taking basic precautions ensures a trouble-free visit:

• Avoid flashing valuables: Keep expensive cameras, jewelry, and electronics discreet
• Watch for pickpockets: Be especially vigilant in crowded areas like Jemaa el-Fnaa and busy souks
• Use official guides: If hiring a guide, choose those with official badges from the Moroccan government
• Beware of scams: Common scams include "this street is closed" (to direct you to shops) and claims that attractions are free (followed by demands for tips)
• Stay aware after dark: While the main areas of the medina are well-populated at night, avoid isolated alleyways

Taking care of your health while in Marrakech ensures your trip remains enjoyable:

• Stay hydrated: The dry climate and heat can cause dehydration quickly. Carry water at all times.
• Food safety: Stick to bottled water, avoid raw vegetables unless at high-end establishments, and ensure meat is well-cooked.
• Sun protection: The Moroccan sun is intense year-round. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
• Heat management: During summer months, plan outdoor activities for early morning or evening, and take afternoon breaks indoors.
• Local pharmacies: Pharmacies are prevalent and well-stocked. Pharmacists can offer advice for minor ailments.

For emergencies, Marrakech has several private clinics with English-speaking staff. Your accommodation can recommend the closest appropriate facility.

Marrakech is a photographer's paradise with its vibrant colors, dramatic light, and captivating scenes. Here's how to capture its beauty while respecting local sensitivities:

• Ask permission: Always request permission before photographing people, especially in less touristy areas.
• Respect privacy: Avoid photographing women without explicit permission, and never photograph inside mosques during prayer times.
• Golden hours: The hour after sunrise and before sunset offers the most flattering light that enhances the terracotta buildings.
• Rooftop perspectives: Café and riad terraces offer spectacular panoramic views of the medina and surrounding mountains.
• Look up and down: Marrakech has stunning ceilings, doorways, and floor tiles that make for memorable abstract shots.

Beyond the obvious landmarks, these lesser-known spots offer unique photographic opportunities:

• Medersa Ben Youssef: This former Islamic college features stunning geometric patterns and intricate woodwork.
• Mellah Spice Market: Pyramids of colorful spices make for vibrant close-up shots.
• Le Jardin Secret: Offers perfectly framed garden views through traditional archways.
• Maison de la Photographie: The rooftop café provides one of the best panoramic views of the medina.
• Dar Si Said: Less crowded than other museums, with beautiful courtyards and light play.
• Sidi Mimoun Gardens: The area near Koutoubia offers reflective pools and palm-framed mosque views.