SAFETY in Morocco – some information and suggestions are listed below:
- PERSONAL SAFETY: Violent crime in Morocco is relatively low. However, we advise clients to avoid walking out on their own, especially at night. Based on our experience women are generally safe but may attract unwanted attention on occasions. We advise women to dress respectfully and avoid tight or revealing clothing in what is a very conservative culture.
- THEFT: Some instances of petty theft are occasionally reported so you are advised to keep an eye on your luggage and personal possessions and avoid walking alone at night or in sparsely populated areas.
- ROAD SAFETY: The Moroccan Government takes road safety very seriously and car and driver insurance is regularly checked at roadblocks. Tourist transport is highly regulated and ACTM only works with responsible drivers and transport agencies to assure the best possible standards of care. Pedestrians need to take special care in busy urban areas and remember to ‘look left’ when crossing the roads.
- CIVIL OR TERRORIST UNREST: Small protests are not uncommon in Morocco where people enjoy a reasonable level of Freedom of Speech and speak out for their rights, but these are easily avoided. Your safely is our priority and we take great care to avoid any risks or civil unrest. Monitor security recommendations for Morocco via the DFAT Smart Traveller website that follows any intelligence on Terrorist threats.
http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/zw-cgi/view/Advice/Morocco - GENERAL OH&S: Moroccan regulations for Occupational Health & Safety are not the same as in Australia and Europe and you need to take special care to watch where you step, especially around building sites and road works or on the many tiled floors that are slippery when wet or that have small steps and hazards. Check for escape routes at hotels in case of fire.
- HEALTH & HYGIENE: There are currently no inoculations required for Morocco although some doctors and travel information recommend vaccinations against Hepititis A, Tetanus, Polio and Typhoid, but this is generally only if you are planning an extended stay in the country. There is always a high risk is catching flu on the flight over, so flu inoculation can be a good idea. Consult your Doctor for your specific needs before travelling. Please make sure that you bring any prescription medications that you require during the trip. There are plenty of pharmacies in Morocco but language can be a difficulty and it is best to avoid the need to purchase more requirements en route. Insect repellant is a good idea if you are prone to bites and take care in the mountains and desert to avoid wild life such as scorpions and snakes. The standards of hygiene are sometimes lower than we are used to, so keeping hands clean and washing them before eating is the best way to stay healthy. We recommend you drink mineral water (which ACTM supplies) although the water in cities is supposed to be okay and brushing your teeth with tap water does not seem to pose any problems. If you have a sensitive constitution or are prone to stomach upsets we recommend you take care to seek out freshly cooked food. Heat stroke can be a problem in the summer months so ensure that you carry water with you and wear a hat.