The FAQ
WHAT ARE THE FORMALITIES FOR GOING TO MOROCCO (VISA, PASSPORT)?
For a trip to Morocco, a valid passport is required. It is imperative that it is still valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into the country. European Union nationals do not need a visa for a travel period of less than 3 months.
DO I HAVE TO PURCHASE DIRHAMS BEFORE GOING TO MOROCCO?
You will only be able to get Dirhams in Morocco. You have 2 choices: Withdraw Dirhams directly with your credit card at ATMs in the city and in the medina. Exchange currencies in one of the many exchange offices in the city and the medina (to get a better rate, avoid changing money at the airport).
HOW TO GET FROM THE AIRPORT TO RIAD?
To avoid stress and confusion on arrival, we recommend that you book the airport-riad transfer in advance. The driver will meet you at the outside exit gate of the airport on arrival with a sign with your name on it. (see prices here)
WHAT ARE THE ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE HOURS AT RIAD?
The rooms are available from 4:00 p.m. But in all cases you can leave your suitcases at the Riad. On the day of departure the rooms must be vacated by 11:00 am. Here again, you will be able to leave your suitcases in the Riad until your departure for the airport.
CAN I INVITE FRIENDS WHO LIVE IN MOROCCO OR STAY ELSEWHERE IN MARRAKECH TO RIAD?
It is not allowed to bring visitors to our riads, in compliance with Moroccan law in force.If you nevertheless wish to welcome visitors, please contact the riad managers.
WHAT IS THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM IN MOROCCO?
The voltage is the same as in France (220 volts / 50 Hertz). Electrical outlets comply with French standards
IS THE WATER FROM THE TAP POTABLE?
Marrakchis drink tap water and they are used to it, but you are not. It is not recommended for your body and you risk getting sick. However, you can brush your teeth with tap water without any problem.
WHAT TEMPERATURES CAN WE EXPECT IN MARRAKECH?
In spring, the temperature fluctuates between 20 and 30 ° C. Summer (from mid June to mid September, temperatures can reach 40 ° C. Evenings and nights can be very pleasant around 25 ° C). In the fall, the weather is comparable to that of spring. In winter, on sunny days, it can be around 20-22 ° C during the day but 7-10 ° C at night.However, at any time of the year, you can enjoy our heated jacuzzi, located in one of the patios.
Where is the RIAD located ?
The Riad is ideally located in the heart of the old city of Marrakech, the medina. In addition, it has access by car to 150 meters (arrival and departure for the airport with your suitcases, excursions, return from restaurants late at night …). which is very practical!
Here are some distances from the essential places of the Medina;
- The souks: 5 min. walk.
- The “Jemâa-el-fna” square: 5 min. walk
- The “Place des Épices”: 10 min. walk.
- The “Place des Ferblantiers”: 7 min. walk.
- The “Bahia Palace” and “Badii Palace”: 5 min. walk.
- The “Marrakech Museum”: 10 min. walk.
- The “Medersa Ben Youssef” (old Koranic university): 15 min. walk.
- The “Saadian tombs” (Kasbah district): 15 min. walk.
The Riad Ajarif is located 2-3 minutes walk from Riad Tawargit
IS MARRAKECH A SAFE CITY?
You are probably safer in Morocco than in Europe. The city of Marrakech even has its own tourist police, whose mission is the tranquility of foreign visitors. On the other hand, as everywhere in the big cities, it is necessary to take precautions when the streets are deserted in the evening and at night. Watch out for your handbags and phones because of snatching.In addition to this, you need to know more about it.
HOW TO DRESS IN MOROCCO?
Remember that Morocco is a Muslim country and certain conventions exist and you have to know them. You will see in the big Moroccan cities, veiled women, others in the latest Western fashion. Dress how you want, as long as it's decent. It is very hot in the summer and it is normal to want to dress lightly. On the other hand, avoid what is too short. A knee-length dress or skirt is perfectly accepted in public.
A FEW TIPS FOR TRADING IN THE SOUKS
When you travel to Morocco, you are very quickly seduced by the various artisanal products and the many souvenirs that you can bring back from the souks. To do good business, you have to know how to negotiate! Know that negotiation in the souks and above all a local sport which is part of the customs, so be relaxed and take things with a smile. You will have to use mischief, humor, persuasion and a lot of bluffing.
Before shopping, take a walk in the souks and find out about the prices, so you can get an idea of the prices. Never show your interest in the product that interests you. Very difficult for some people, you will have to learn to hide your emotions at the risk of seeing the price of the product skyrocket. If the negotiation has progressed well but has stalled, try to leave politely without buying anything. It's a safe bet that the seller will come after you or get you back to let go of the negotiation at your price. What if it doesn't? You had actually hit the correct price, then you can come back in the afternoon or the next day and get it at the agreed price.