» » If it’s your first time in Morocco, the first few days may be something of a shock, but you’ll
quickly develop a thick skin to deal with the unwanted looks and comments.
» » The key to not spending your trip feeling hassled is to be wary but not paranoid – the low-
level harassment rarely goes any further.
» » Moroccans are eager to help any traveller and there are times when being a woman is a
distinct advantage, especially when lost or in some form of distress. Moroccans tend to be
genuinely concerned for the ‘weaker sex’ and will offer protection and support if you feel you’re
in a potentially bad situation.
» » Another benefit is that unlike male travellers, you’ll have opportunities to meet local women.
» » For more information on Moroccan women Click here.
Attitudes & Relationships
» » The common attitude that a Westerner is a walking visa out of a country where
unemployment is rife can affect women travellers.
» » This perception is partly fuelled by Western women having holiday romances with local
guys.
» » Bored young men may have little to lose by wooing someone who can offer them an
opportunity in another country, or a sexual liaison unavailable from Moroccan women.
» » Some locals could be juggling several relationships at once.
» » More positively, there are many success stories about relationships of mixed nationality.
Dress
» » Dress modestly. Despite some tourists’ attire, hot pants and cleavage in the Marrakesh
medina are never appropriate.
» » Bikinis attract attention and sunbathing topless on the beach is inappropriate.
» » At the other end of the scale, sporting a head scarf or even a jellaba (Moroccan-style
flowing cloak) will earn you respect, particularly in the countryside, as well as questions about
why you’re wearing it: Are you Muslim? Are you Moroccan? Are you married to a Moroccan?
» » For further suggestions about what to wear (and what not to wear) while in Morocco, see
the boxed text on Click here.
Havens & Pitfalls
» » If the hassle gets too much, look for the ever-increasing number of places accustomed to
having the business of single Moroccan women.
» » The upper floor of a salon de thé (tea house), a restaurant or a hotel terrace is also good
bet.
» » Hammams are good male-free zones for a relaxing reprieve.
» » Hotel and public swimming pools usually attract groups of men, whether they be swimming
or drinking at a poolside bar.
» » Be aware that some budget hotels double as brothels; any cheap hotel above a popular
locals’ bar is a likely contender.
» » If you want an alcoholic drink, head to a large hotel rather than braving a bar, as these are
generally rough, male-dominated establishments. Local women who frequent watering holes,
even the posher ones, are generally prostitutes.
Male Travelling Companions
» » Women travelling with male companions are unlikely to experience much of the hassle that
solo women inevitably encounter.