Stephrey’s Top 10: Morocco Edition

1. Go to Marrakesh - 80% of tourists travel to the city … for a reason! 
2. Book a group cooking class - … on day 1 - great value and a fun chance to meet other travellers. It’s also a perfect chance to learn about the spices, dishes, and customs. Plus, yum! 
3. It’s very safe - tourism is the #1 industry and locals respect that. They are kind, warm, welcoming, open and enjoy that you are coming to visit their home, and soak up their beautiful country. *caveat* when walking, be on the lookout when walking for scooters. They rip through alleys at speed and if you’re not looking out, could injure a toe pretty badly. 
4. Don’t buy right away - it may seem tempting, but many vendors offer similar products and the initial urge to purchase wears off. 
5. Book a private desert tour - this includes a half day city tour, and a driver/ guide that takes you into the mountains. Lots of view points, stops, shops (if you wish) or if you’d rather stick to the road ahead, then you can customize. Plus you have your own car when it the hoopla of a tour bus and get a chance to be candid with your guide for the duration of the trip. 
6. Ensure you’ve got a few handfuls of tipping in local currency - from bathrooms, to tours, and everything in between, most places will not ask or pressure but anywhere from 20-500 Dirham is very, very appreciated.
7. Make reservations at restaurants in the Medina - the sunset from a terrace is beautiful (apparently) most places are booked solid without a confirming a space further ahead. It’s worth it to check out a few different places to ensure you have a seat and view the entertainment in the square below. 
8. Dress in layers - Ladies/ Gents, bring a scarf or shawl everywhere (or buy one as they are for sale everywhere and fold down to nearly nothing). The days can be hot, and it helps with sun protection, while evenings can be chilly, and it makes for a great wrap. Also, pack good/ easy to clean, walking sandals (not flip flops or birks as they fall off on camel rides!) for cruising around the sook to the dessert. Also I would recommend dressing somewhat modestly, however; lots of tourists in mini dresses and short shorts without hearing anyone be catcalled; so, you do you. 
9. No booze - though it’s legal in Morocco, it’s relatively scarce at most dining establishments. So while there are whispers of where you can scope out bathtub wine made from local dates, take this holiday as a chance to detox and enjoy the other bevys on deck. Many restaurants have an assortment of trendy and tasty mocktails. Plus, Moroccan tea (made from gunpowder green tea leaves, fresh mint, and hot water is delicious). Always say yes to sugar or honey (aka how locals drink it) and yes to tea. It’s a generous offering from your Moroccan host, and an honour to receive. 
10. Go to a hamman with your honey - a chance to relax, reenergize, and rest after a busy trip.