The Adventure Gal

This summer I went to the Moroccan city of Tangier with my husband as a day trip on our honeymoon. We almost didn’t go because of how unsafe people say the city is. I was anxious about it, but decided we should do it for the adventure (I’m the Adventure Gal after all). As I was deciding what to wear, all of these thoughts flooded my mind from what people that told me about Morocco. How the men there disrespect women, or how you have to wear a skirt, you can’t show your hair, and so on.  I didn’t bring any long skirts, long sleeves, or anything that covered my hair. I ended up wearing a black short-sleeve shirt and jeans. I was praying that no one would think I was inappropriate or treat me differently because of what I was wearing.

After we went, I realized just how silly I was thinking that something was going to happen to me because of what I was wearing and because I was a woman. In fact, the country was beautiful and the people were nice. I believe everyone should visit. There are couple of precautions to take (as with any other country) so as you’re planning your trip to Morocco as a woman, I have a few tips for you.

You don’t have to wear a skirt or a hijab.

Just because you are traveling to a country where this is the custom, it doesn’t mean that you have to follow these rules (these are the customs for Morocco. I’m not sure about other countries where the majority of the population is Muslim). You have a different culture and should respect theirs, but that doesn’t mean you have to dress very differently. They have tourists come all the time and they understand that it is part of their religion and not necessarily yours. In no way will they think you are disrespectful because they respect your beliefs. I would suggest wearing long pants and something that covers your rear, as well as no cleavage. This way you are respecting their culture and still feel comfortable (even if it’s a 90+ degree day in Africa…).

Travel with a group or a male.

Yes it is safe to go to Morocco, but this doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t have a companion or go with a group. Pickpocketing is a problem and people are pretty intense about selling things on the street. Learning how to barter is huge in Morocco. I would recommend doing a day trip like we did from Spain. That way you have someone who knows their way around and can tell what you should and shouldn’t do. It’s always safe to have someone watching your back and knowing how to navigate a different country. I will always suggest going on guided tours no matter where you travel.

Try the food, it’s delicious.

Ok, I know this isn’t a tip just for women, but I had to say it. I had the most amazing couscous and vegetables. It was flavored with honey and had such a great sweetness to it. We also had fresh juice that tasted like nothing I’ve had before–so good! Cuisine is something I’m always excited to try when I travel because I think that it really shows the local culture.

Don’t be scared and limit yourself just because you’re a woman.

I’m all for doing what you want because you’re a woman, as you should. Don’t be scared to be adventurous and don’t always live on edge, or else you will never truly live. If you want to go to another country that might seem taboo for women, do it! Just make sure you are following their customs and know what to do to prepare yourself. Take the precautions needed like you would going to any country. Hold your head high and learn how to negotiate, and you’ll be fine in Morocco.

I hope you feel safe to go to Morocco and can enjoy the wonderful culture. Remember to take pictures and use #TheAdventureGal! We would love to see your adventures!

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