Cultural Etiquette in Morocco

Whenever you visit a foreign country , it is best to understand the rules of etiquette . In some countries , a move can be a friendly hello , while in others, it is a tough offense. Traveling in Morocco , a country located in North Africa, is no different . To experience the best holiday in Morocco , there are some things you need to know about cultural etiquette in terms of language , dress code , greetings and dining room.

language:

Mainly Moroccans speak Arabic , specifically a Moroccan Arabic dialect. If you decide to go hiking in the mountains or in the Sahara desert , you should expect to be the main Arabic language you hear. French is a common language, but it is spoken mainly in the northern region in places like the Rif mountains , Algiers and Casablanca. Berber - Arab is located in the mountain regions and desert too. English, Spanish and French are spoken and understood in cities like Fez , Marrakech and Casablanca. It would be polite for you to learn some French conversation before your trip .

Dress:

Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country if your dress should reflect the cultural norm . Muslims dress in tunics is not appropriate for a stranger, but you should not wear shirts, skimpy shorts or skirts. Instead , you should wear modest clothing like skirts that reach below the knees , light cotton pants and shirts that cover your shoulders. Beachwear is appropriate in the tourist resorts along the Mediterranean and Atlantic coast, but not in local restaurants in these areas .

greetings :

Hospitality is the key to Moroccan culture. After introductions were made , it is customary to ask about family or friends during a conversation. You can greet people with handshakes, as they are the same sex. A handshake "Western" tends to be strong and enthusiastic, then to Morocco a few more gentle hand is needed. Women should offer first hand if they want to shake hands with a man. A Muslim woman , especially those burqa tend to refrain from physical contact. In this situation, a slight hello or nod of the head of the accused would be acceptable.

The public affection , such as kissing and hugging is not tolerated in Morocco. For some hand holding diploma is considered a platonic gesture is not as taboo as other affectionate displays. Cultural etiquette also stipulates that a woman when he is young and single , must always travel with a group or be accompanied by a man , rather than go alone in a public place.

Dining Etiquette :

It is customary to be invited to a family for a meal while in Morocco. If this is the case , you should not refuse an offer of food and graciously accept any gift that is given when you are prompted for it is customary to bring a gift , such as flowers , candy or pastries. In some households , men and women dine separately and require a more conservative dress code.