Has anyone been to Morocco and how safe do you rate it for a lone female traveller. Also any suggestions for most important sights if only got 2 wks to see the place. Thanks.

redcherry

I've been to Morocco a couple of times. Its a wonderful place full of things to see and do. I'd certainly consider going on my own, and wouldn't feel I needed to take extra precautions than anywhere else. The people are friendly and helpful, although are wise to making money out of tourists. Although I've not gone on my own, a girl friend and I recently visited together and I would consider going it alone too.

However, be very prepared in advance by reading up on the areas you want to visit beforehand. I once asked where a train was going and was told with a smile: "where do you want it to go?" so spent the next 1/2 trying to establish how safe it was to get on the train. Speaking French will be a big bonus as there isn't much English spoken.


Culture/ Dress:
Moroccan culture is very different. Men tend to dominate in the streets, whereas women tend to stay at home, so whether you are alone or not, you will cause some stares (particularly from cafes) You can help to dimish this by being careful how you dress. This is especially true visiting the Imperial cities. I suggest that you cover up, wear long sleeves and trousers, hat and sunglasses. Apart from the fact its more sensible in the heat & sun, you will fit in more.

I think that Moroccans see europeans as being more liberal, and therefore they think that they can get away with being more familar with strangers, in particular women than they would be normally. They soon back off though if you make it clear politely where you stand. Everyone gets more shopkeeps hassle in the imperial cities but I've never felt threatened.

Confidence will always help with the above, but also when buying food or souveniers. Everyone barters over pretty much anything. I'd start by taking off 2/3 of the original asking price and go from there.

Food:
The food is delicious, try Tagine. Provided its piping hot it should be fine. Mint tea is also usually safe, but make sure that you only drink sealed branded bottled water. DRINK LOTS. Heat exhaustion/ dehydration is easy to come by and not nice! I suffered from heat exhaustion even after drinking about 2 litres a day for 3 days prior to suffering (June, 35-45 degrees)

Transport:
Morocco doesn't hurry. Public transport will usually be late. Also lots of people travel overnight on buses and trains because its cheaper/ cooler.

Accomodation:
Hotels are usually basic (unless its a big modern chain) They can be full of charm and are cheap and cool, but don't expect them to be backpacker hostels that you migt find in more popular detinations.

Campsites, usually a disused field or within the walls of a kasbah. The ground will be rock hard because of the heat. I'd stay in a hotel myself.

Hi there
I had a brief visit to Morrocco last summer, arriving via ferry from the south of Spain. I went with my boyfriend, and I really wouldn't like to have been there alone, for several reasons.
First of all, when you arrive, there will be a huge crowd of men rushing toward the gate, wanting to be your tourguide for the day. They are very pushy and you have to stand your ground and say no until you find a 'sane' one who you trust. Secondly, when we left on the ferry, we were hassled by men who wanted to fill in our boarding cards. There is no need as you can do it yourself if you can read English. So don't give them your card as they'll expect to get paid. Finally, the rush to get on board the ferry is scary! Be prepared to feel like a hostage, and see a few scrabbles with refugees :S

All this said, Tangiers was great fun. I really recommend camel-riding if you get a chance. The seafood is good, and also mint tea. check out local markets - you might see some interesting sights! Lots of people spoke English there, and the city life at night was lively like other places in Europe.And as for the sunsets.....