Eight languages, including French, Spanish and Berber are often spoken in Morocco, but Arabic is the official language. In the tourist areas you’ll commonly find French speakers. English is usually understood though.
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Morocco’s official currency is the Moroccan dirham, which breaks down into 100 centimes. Larger towns usually have ATMs, but they can be unreliable. It’s better to change money in a bank or official exchange bureau. Keep your receipts when you change your money. You’ll need them as proof when you exchange your money upon departure, the only time you’ll be able to exchange dirham for other currency. Larger shops, restaurants and hotels usually accept major credit cards, and tourist areas will accept traveler’s checks.
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Morocco’s international country code is 212. To call another country from Morocco, dial 00 followed by the appropriate country code. Check with your hotel before making an international call; sometimes they add a hefty surcharge. It’s easy to find Internet cafes in tourist areas.
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High-end bars and restaurants expect tips of 10 to 15 percent, but some may already include a service charge in the bill. Don’t award aggressive hustling with a tip, but you should tip a few dirhams for most services. Tips are the only form of income for some guides and porters.
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Be vigilant and aware of your surroundings in Morocco.
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You don’t need any vaccinations to enter the country, but it’s a good idea to get immunizations against hepatitis A and typhoid before your trip. Stick to bottled water, avoid street food and bring medication for travelers’ diarrhea. The main towns all have good medical facilities, but you will need health insurance.
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Morocco’s electrical current is 220 volts, 50Hz and uses two-pinned, round plugs.
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A New England native but explorer at heart, Melisse has lived in four U.S. cities, spent a summer in Hawaii, made her way through wine-producing regions in Australia and New Zealand, and traveled around Europe while studying abroad in London. She is the Content Manager for the U.S. and Canada at Cheapflights.