Useful tips
Here are a few tips to help you fully appreciate the generosity and hospitality of the Berber of the Moroccan South.
Ramadan | Table manners | The rite of the tea | Taboo subjects | Dress code | Photographs |
MOROCCAN HOSPITALITY
Hardly an hour will pass without a Moroccan urging you to chat around a cup of mint tea or coffee. Such invitations do not generally have to awaken your suspicion. One of the most pleasant aspects of Morocco is the warm welcome and the openness of its inhabitants.
The social customs are sometimes disconcerting...
In Moslem
countries, you should remove your shoes when entering a carpeted
room Being respectful of local customs is very much appreciated.
Avoid refusing food which is offered to you as well as the
tea.
The demonstration of loving feelings between couples
is not acceptable in public.
Every idea deserves to be defended
so rather than imposing our view we invite discussion to
awaken the spirit.
RAMADAN
During the holy month of Ramadan, respect the period of fasting by avoiding drinking, eating or smoking in an ostentatious way in public.
TABLE MANNERS
The Moroccan mountain dwellers do not take offence, but greatly appreciate marks of respect and interest shown in their culture; for example pronouncing Bismillah (in the name of God) before eating will be welcomed with a lot of enjoyment and appreciation. Wash your hands carefully before meals.
THE RITE OF THE TEA
The first tea is as bitter as life.
The second is as strong
as love.
The third is as pleasant as death.
We can refuse
the first too strong tea and drink two others.
To drink only
the first one, the richest in flavour and to scorn both or
the others is boorishness.
TABOO SUBJECTS
Mosques : are regrettably forbidden to non Moslems, except
the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca .
Cemeteries : are forbidden:
Moslems do not appreciate western intervention in these places.
The left hand : in Moslem society, the left hand is associated
with toilet hygiene. You cannot use it for eating, touching
food and water, nor handing out money or presents.
DRESS CODE
Morocco is a paradise for walkers.
Throughout the country
certain mountainous zones are almost unexplored. These regions
offer a magnificent possibility for hiking, but it is advisable
to follow certain rules.
It is important to respect the dress
code, especially in conservative tribal areas.
In villages
it's better to wear long sleeved shirts (rather than T-shirts
which the villagers consider as underclothes) and to cover
shoulders, arms and legs. Men & woman should wear trousers
rather than shorts.
Be respectful of both clothing and behaviour
.
PHOTOGRAPHS
A good photo is taken with the agreement of its subject not
against their will.
It is polite to ask permission before
photographing a person.
