Travelling to Morocco during Ramadan can be a spiritually enriching experience as well as a chance to explore a vibrant and fascinating culture. However, it is important to plan ahead and be aware of some of the cultural nuances associated with this special time of year.
Below are a few tips to help you have a smooth and enjoyable journey to Morocco during Ramadan.
1. Respect the Fasting –
While you don’t need to fast yourself, it is important to respect Muslims who are observing the fast. Avoid eating or drinking around those who are fasting. If food is served out in the open, try to do it discreetly or wait until after sundown.
Tips: If you are travelling with a driver, please respect your driver. Do it discreetly if you need to eat on th way during driving.
2. Dress Conservatively –
Appropriate clothing styles are especially important for women. Make sure to cover up your arms and legs. Shoes should be kept on at all times and beachwear shouldn’t be worn in public.
(This actually apply to all the time, not only during Ramadan. This is also a good way to avoid starring from the locals.)
Tips: this is particularly important if you need to visit the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. Otherwise you will not be allowed to get in.
3. Choose Food Wisely –
Eating and drinking are restricted during daylight hours for the Muslims. Before sunset, some restaurants will be close or serve limited menus. Meal times after sunset can be busy, so it’s best to settle into a restaurant early.
Tips: restaurants in popular tourist cities such as Marrakech are more likely open to the tourists. it will not be a big problem. However, for the first 10-15 minutes after sunset when the Muslims break fast and eat their first meal after a whole day work, the restaurants will stop service at the time to allow their staff to break fast.
4. Respect Prayer Times –
Prayers throughout the day are a central part of Ramadan, so it’s important to respect those who are participating in them. Avoid loud music or conversation during prayer times, and show respect by not entering a mosque while they are in session.
5. Plan Ahead –
During Ramadan, some businesses and public services may operate on a reduced schedule or change their hours of operation. Also, be aware that it may be difficult to find transportation during the day and you’ll want to plan ahead if long travels are necessary.
Tips: many tourist spots, such as the Hassan II Mosque or Le Jardin Majorelle will shorten the visiting hours. So please check in advance.
By following the tips above, you should be able to have a hassle-free journey to Morocco during Ramadan. The experience can be enriching and offer a chance to deeply engage with the culture and its people.
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Source:
1. Hempel, J. (2018, July 19). What to consider when you travel to Morocco during Ramadan. Retrieved from https://www.worldnomads.com/ca/discover/morocco/travel-during-ramadan-in-morocco
2. K. (2019, June 13). What to expect traveling in Morocco during Ramadan. Retrieved from https://www.experienceit.travel/travel-morocco-during-ramadan/
3. Siegel, S. (2018, May 22). Ramadan in Morocco: what to expect. Retrieved from https://aroundtheworldin80jobs.com/ramadan-morocco-expect/