Morocco: Facts for the Traveller

Currency
Moroccan Dirham.

It is generally easy to change money and/or cash travelers checks in Morocco, including at the airport ('bureau de change'). Traveler's checks are easily exchanged at most Moroccan banks, and at the more upscale hotels, travel agencies, and tourist shops. However, a surcharge (approximately 11.00dh) is levied on each check by almost all banks with the exception of the Bank al Maghrib (also called the Banque du Maroc). ATMs are available in the larger towns, and major credit cards are accepted in larger shops and restaurants.

Dirham cannot be imported to or exported from Morocco. The exchange rate for the Moroccan Dirham fluctuates frequently. On 2 December 2004, the conversion was 8.38 Moroccan Dirhams to 1 U.S. Dollar, but a currency calculator, such as the Economist's Currency Converter should be used for more accurate and timely estimates. Keep this in mind when booking travel and excursions.

Time Zone
Marrakech along with all of Morocco is on Greenwich Mean Time, putting it 5 hours ahead of Washington DC, 1 hour behind Paris, and 9 hours behind Tokyo.

Tipping
Tipping is expected in the fancier eateries and bars. Around 10-15% of your bill is usual. A dirham or two should suffice at the more casual restaurants and cafes, as well as for taxis, porters, and other service providers.

Communications, Including Internet
The international calling code for Morocco is +212. We anticipate that INECE will provide an Internet Café in the hotel for conference participants, and the hotel itself may have a lounge with a few Internet-enabled computers. A few cafes in Marrakech also provide Internet access.

Electricity
All outlets are 127/220V (50Hz). If you use a hair dryer, electric shaver, or battery operated charger for a computer, you may need to bring an adapter.

Weather
April is generally pleasantly warm to hot (77 - 82°F (25 - 28°C)) during the day and cool to cold (51 - 59°F (11 - 15°C)) at night. There is an average of 1.2 inches (3 cm) of rainfall in Marrakech in April. There is relatively little humidity in Marrakech with levels typically around 60%.

Clothing and Customs
April can be very warm or hot (see above section on Weather). It is advised to bring light clothing to wear during the day. However, please note that it is appropriate, but not required, to wear modest clothing (e.g., arms and legs covered) in public locations.

Health
No vaccinations are required to enter Morocco, but most travelers to Morocco are recommended to get vaccinations for hepatitis A and typhoid fever. It is advisable to drink bottled water, ask that ice is not added to drinks you order, and to avoid food sold at roadside stands. Medical facilities are good in all main towns. Health insurance is essential. Travelers may also wish to check international travel and health information from The World Health Organization.

Travel Warnings and Information
See http://travel.state.gov/travel/morocco.html and/or the travel advisory information provided by your country for up-to-date travel advisories.

Languages
Classical Arabic is Morocco's official language, but the country's distinctive Arabic dialect is the most widely spoken language in Morocco. In addition, about 10 million Moroccans, mostly in rural areas, speak Berber--which exists in Morocco in three different dialects (Tarifit, Tashelhit, and Tamazight)--either as a first language or bilingually with Morocco's Arabic dialect. French, which remains Morocco's unofficial third language, is taught universally and still serves as Morocco's primary language of commerce and economics; it is also widely used in education and government. Many Moroccans in Marrakech and other cities speak English as well. For more information, visit http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/5431.htm.