FAQs

Question

Will I be welcomed? Is Morocco safe?

Answer

Unequivocally, YES! We thought long and hard about having our wedding in Marrakech, and to be frank, had concerns about danger, especially with what's going on in the world. We have never felt more comfortable and safe. Moroccans are warm, welcoming and very proud of being Moroccan. Having influences from all over the world - French, Spanish, Ottomans - they are very open and willing to share their culture with you. They will be the first to educate you about their history of tolerance, religious and otherwise. We also note that our families and friends come from very diverse, colourful backgrounds. We know what you've read, and understand your concerns. To that end, we believe respect is the most important attribute to have. Understandably, brash public displays of individuality may be met with consternation, especially in the older parts of town. It’s also important to dress modestly, especially when exploring the medina. Morocco is a Muslim country and respectful attire is appreciated. When visiting mosques, consider wearing trousers or maxi skirts with a long or 3/4 sleeved blouse or shirt. As a visitor to their country, being respectful of their culture and beliefs shows your dignity, which will be appreciated and reciprocated. Very demure, very mindful. Along those lines, alcohol is typically available in Western-friendly venues, of which there are many. Just don't expect to have a drink everywhere you go. Be aware of your surroundings, wallet, purse etc. While it's typically very safe, you may run into the odd pick pocket, like anywhere else in the world. And finally, we hope you enjoy your time in Morocco. It's a rich country with a beautiful, old soul. We want to share these memories with you!

Question

Visas and other requirements

Answer

To enter Morocco you must have a valid passport with at least one blank page. Visas are not required for visits lasting less than 90 days. Presently, nationals of several countries—including Australia, New Zealand, the USA, the UK, the EU, and Canada—do not require a visa to visit Morocco as long as they have a passport with at least six months of remaining validity and a round-trip or return ticket. Check here to confirm your visa requirements prior to entering: https://www.acces-maroc.ma/#/ Also check with your local authorities for the latest travel information for your home country.

Question

Useful Numbers

Answer

EMERGENCY NUMBERS Police - 19 OR 190 177 Royal Gendarmerie(outside cities) - 15 OR 150 Firefighters, ambulance and civil protection - 0524384601 Tourism Brigade - 0524384601 THE COUNTRY CODE IS +212

Question

Useful phrases to learn

Answer

It's always good to learn a few words when visiting a new country. Moroccan Arabic, known as Moroccan Darija, is different from other Arabic dialects because of its influences from other languages such as Amazigh (Berber languages), French, and Spanish, due to colonization in the 20th century. French is still widely used in Morocco today, and is the primary language of commerce, culture, and education. Some critical words in Moroccan Arabic include: "Salam" (hello), "Labas" (how are you), "Shukran" (thank you), "La" (no), "Naam" (yes), "Wakha" (okay), "Besslama" (goodbye), "Alhamdullilah" (thank God), "Aafak" (please), "Mezyan" (good), "Mashi Moshkil" (no problem), "Marhba" (welcome). Greetings: "Salam" is a casual way to say hello, while "As-salaam alaykum" is a more formal greeting. Asking about well-being: "Labas" is the common way to ask "how are you?" Positive responses: "Mezyan" means "good" and "Alhamdullilah" is a way to say "thank God" Negative responses: "La" is "no" and "La shukran" means "no thank you" Politeness: "Aafak" is used to say "please"

Question

Traditional Hindu wedding in Morocco?

Answer

Yep. We want you to have the full traditional Indian wedding experience! There is no wrong - the ceremonies and rituals will be new to all - it's our first time too! ;) Just come along, partake in the experience and enjoy yourselves! We encourage everyone to join us in traditional attire if possible. Whatever suits your vibe and comfort level. On the wedding day, we ask that you dress appropriately, in formal or traditional Indian attire. Each menu will have a range of strict vegan to halal, including fish, lamb and chicken. No beef will be served. If there are other dietary restrictions, please inform us. Alcohol will be served at appropriate times.

Question

Where can I get traditional Indian clothes?

Answer

Great question! There's great men's & women's traditional Indian clothes outside of India! Be mindful that Southeast Asian clothing, Indian & Pakistani in particular, can look very similar to the untrained eye. If in doubt, make sure you clarify with the store, or ask us! Here's a quick guide - https://www.fabricoz.com/blogs/fabricoz/what-is-the-difference-between-indian-and-pakistani-salwar-kameez?srsltid=AfmBOoofgXG8y9uWdpVDc5tNCyZCPa7BSD-Mu7KBhjrYpHG5Beeg4VD- CHICAGO: Little India - Devon Ave, from Western to N California Ave you will find plenty of great shops to choose from! Sahill | 2605 W Devon Ave, Chicago, IL 60659 India Sari Palace | 2534, West Devon Avenue, Chicago, IL - 60618 NEW YORK: There are plenty of boutiques in Queens, on 73rd, 74th & 75th Streets, between 37th Ave & 37th Rd/ Broadway. Head to Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Ave stop. There's also a couple in Manhattan if you don't want to make the trek. Rahul's Couture | 37-07 74th Street, Jackson Heights, NY 11372 Sita's Boutique | 37-11 74th Street, Jackson Heights, NY 11372 Vintage India | 132 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10016 Heritage India Fashions | 131 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10016 Harleen Kaur | 264 W 40th St #301, New York, NY 10018 LOS ANGELES: The best place to head to is Little India in Artesia - Pioneer Blvd, between 183rd & 188th. There are a few to choose from. Be careful you don't become a character out of a movie! Osheen Designer Studio | 18377 Pioneer Blvd, Artesia, CA 90701 Loveleen Sari Palace | 18507 Pioneer Blvd, Artesia, CA 90701 Bollywood Styles | 10200 Venice Blvd. #107, Culver City, CA 90232 KYNAH | 2316 Pico Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90405 BAY AREA: East Bay. Fremont mostly. Sodhi Designer House | 41027 Fremont Blvd, Fremont, CA 94538 Rashi's Collection | 3842 Carol Ave, Fremont, CA 94538 Kanyadaan Boutique | 4004 Bay St, Fremont, CA 94538 Fabdrape Indian Boutique | 40784 Fremont Blvd, Fremont, CA 94538 Bibi's Fashion | 27518 Tampa Ave, Hayward, CA 94544

Question

What's the weather like in November?

Answer

Winters are warm, with typical high temperatures ranging from 18-22°C (64-72°F) between December and February, while most rain falls between the months of November and March. November weather temperatures drop slightly from October but the skies remain mostly sunny and blue. However in the evenings the temperature starts to cool considerably to around 10c at during the night. November has on average just under 11 hours of daylight with the sun setting near to 5:30pm. The average temperature hovers around 22c making it pleasant. Night temperatures on average are 10c. In November, the average monthly rainfall for Marrakech is 6mm.

Question

What essentials to pack?

Answer

We suggest a shawl for the evenings as desert temperatures can dip. For those going on tours, pack a windbreaker or appropriate excursion gear, as winds are high near the Atlas Mountains. A light rain coat or water-resistant jacket for rain - Marrakech can get random patches of light rain during November. If rain happens, it will be light. A hat and sunnies, as it gets really hot and sunny during the day. Pack and carry sunscreen and moisturizer with you at all times. Bathing suit - almost everywhere you go will have a pool. Good walking shoes that you're not afraid to get dirty, as you may find the souks and streets dusted with some red sand - it's the 'Red City' after all.

Question

What are Riads or Dars? ARe they like Hotels?

Answer

Riads or Dars are traditional, intimate homes in the medinas in Morocco, some dating from the 9th century, that were transformed into “boutique” accommodations, most with amenities similar to a hotel, such as a restaurant, bar, spa and boutique. They are also operated similarly, with daily housekeeping and other services. Riad is Arabic for 'garden', and differentiated with a central courtyard and garden, and is often known for its intricate tile work and peaceful atmosphere, offering a unique Moroccan experience. Dar translates to 'house' which has multiple floors, a central courtyard but lacks a garden. As riads and dars are guest houses with fewer rooms than hotels, you might consider getting a group together and renting out the whole riad.