{"id":8709,"date":"2017-01-12T09:00:52","date_gmt":"2017-01-12T14:00:52","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.escapeartist.com\/?p=8709"},"modified":"2020-09-17T16:02:48","modified_gmt":"2020-09-17T21:02:48","slug":"cultural-customs-must-try-traditions-marrakesh","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.escapeartist.com\/blog\/cultural-customs-must-try-traditions-marrakesh\/","title":{"rendered":"Cultural Customs and Must-Try Traditions of Marrakesh"},"content":{"rendered":"

Cultural Customs and Must-Try Traditions of Marrakesh<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Offering an intoxicating mix of African charm and Islamic traditions, it\u2019s no wonder Marrakesh is one of the most favored destinations to visit in North Africa. A city of history, tradition, and culture, it\u2019s probably one of the most evocative places in the world. Truly a sight to behold, this city is a melting pot of bustling souks (markets), sandstone buildings, <\/span>exotic Riads<\/span><\/a> (house or palace), and architectural wonders.<\/span><\/p>\n

Acclimating in this enchanting destination is easy. It\u2019s not long after arrival that you\u2019ll find yourself fully immersed in a city of echoing calls to prayer, the hum of haggling voices, and the enticing, aromatic smells of <\/span>Moroccan food<\/span><\/a>. In the early evening it\u2019s all topped off with a spectacular rose-colored sky. This place is a whirlwind of color and noise.<\/span><\/p>\n

It\u2019s impossible not to be drawn in by this city\u2019s magical effect, and generally Marrakesh and its people are friendly and welcoming. However, if you are unfamiliar with Muslim tradition and culture, you\u2019d be wise to <\/span>brush up<\/span><\/a>. There are a whole host of customs and traditions that can easily pass you by, and in some cases ignorance may cause you unnecessary grief.<\/span><\/p>\n

We\u2019ve put together some of the common and lesser known customs and must-try traditions to make your stay in this desert oasis the experience of a lifetime.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Cultural Customs<\/strong><\/h2>\n

You don\u2019t have to lose your identity when you are indulging in a completely new cultural experience, but you\u2019d be wise to pay a respectful nod to local traditions and customs. Here\u2019s a heads-up.<\/span><\/p>\n

Photographs<\/b> \u2013 When taking photos of local people, always ask permission. To not do so may cause offense. Many local people believe photos capture their soul. Also, don\u2019t be tempted to take photos of the monkeys or snake charmers in the main square, unless you are willing to pay a hefty price for the privilege.<\/span><\/p>\n

Shoes <\/b>\u2013 Never show the bottom of your shoe to anyone. It\u2019s a negative greeting. Also, should you befriend any locals and get invited to their home, always remove shoes before entering the house.<\/span><\/p>\n

Mosques<\/b> \u2013 Don\u2019t expect to visit any mosques (unless they are ruins). Mosques are very holy places that only Muslims are allowed to enter.<\/span><\/p>\n

Clothing<\/b> \u2013 The Muslim faith dictates that women cover themselves so they don\u2019t show bare flesh. Many local women wear kaftans and a Hijab (headscarf). Although locals in Marrakesh are used to Western tourists, some are less friendly towards Western clothing. Scarves are a sensible addition to any traveling woman\u2019s wardrobe here. Covered shoes are advisable in the Old Medina.<\/span><\/p>\n

It\u2019s advisable for women to keep covered with lightweight fabrics. Moroccan men are not used to seeing women walking around showing bare flesh. If you are scantily clad, expect to be stared at and even shouted at. It\u2019s advisable to follow a few basic rules out of respect. Cover cleavage, shoulders, and knees. It\u2019s OK to not cover hair, hands, face, and feet. Stick to modest clothing and you won\u2019t attract unwanted attention.<\/span><\/p>\n

Keep to the right<\/b> \u2013 When wandering around the Medina and the souks, keep to the right. It\u2019s a Muslim tradition.<\/span><\/p>\n

Local saying<\/b> \u2013 You\u2019ll hear \u201cEnshallah\u201d a lot. It means \u201cGod willing\u201d or \u201cGod wills.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Useful phrases \u2013 \u201c<\/b>Shukran\u201d (thank you) and \u201cla shukran\u201d (no thank you), pronounced \u201cshokran.\u201d Hello is \u201csalam alaikum.\u201d It also means \u201cpeace be with you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hassling and haggling<\/b> \u2013 You will be hassled. Shop and stall owners will see you as potential buyers for their richly woven rugs, exotic slippers, and Moroccan spices. Don\u2019t let it put you off wandering around the souks. Decline firmly if you\u2019re not interested. You\u2019ll be expected to haggle, but stick to a maximum price you are prepared to pay. You\u2019ll often get the offer as you walk away.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Must-Try Traditions<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Food<\/b> – Morocco is home to one of the greatest cuisines of the world. Combining mouthwatering flavors, there is so much Moroccan cuisine you really should try. Here\u2019s a roundup of the best bits.<\/span><\/p>\n