So I’ve been in Morocco for a while now and figured I’d write something for people thinking about visiting. No bullshit, just what it’s actually like.

The medinas are chaos

Walking through Fes or Marrakech medina is insane. Narrow streets, people everywhere, mopeds coming at you from every direction. You will get lost. Multiple times. Just accept it now.

But that’s also kind of the fun part? Once you stop stressing about it and just wander, you find cool stuff. Random food stalls, craftsmen making stuff by hand, cats sleeping on ancient doorsteps.

Yes, people will try to sell you things

This freaks some tourists out but honestly it’s not that bad. Someone offers to show you around, just say no thanks and keep walking. They’re not gonna chase you down the street.

The rug sellers in the souks are persistent though, I’ll give you that.

The food is good but repetitive

Tagines are everywhere. Couscous on Fridays. Lots of bread. The mint tea is basically hot sugar water but it’s addictive.

Best food is the cheap stuff – street vendors, small local spots. Those fancy tourist restaurants are usually overpriced and mediocre.

Try the grilled sardines if you’re on the coast. Get msemen for breakfast. Avoid anything that looks like it’s been sitting out all day.

Desert trips are long

Everyone wants to see the Sahara and yeah it’s beautiful. But getting there from Marrakech is like 9 hours in a van. Each way.

The sunset on the dunes is cool, riding camels is fun for about 15 minutes, then your ass hurts. Sleeping in the desert camp is an experience but don’t expect luxury.

Things that actually matter

• Bring toilet paper with you. Public bathrooms often don’t have any
• Morocco gets cold at night, especially in winter. Pack a jacket
• WiFi sucks in most places
• ATMs sometimes run out of money on weekends
• Everything takes longer than you think it will

Each city is different

Marrakech is touristy and intense. Fes is more traditional and even more confusing to navigate. Chefchaouen is pretty and relaxed. Essaouira has good beaches and wind. Tangier is… different, kind of European feeling.

Don’t just do Marrakech and call it done.

Real talk

Morocco isn’t an easy place to travel. Things don’t always work smoothly. You’ll get frustrated sometimes.

But it’s interesting. The architecture is beautiful. The landscapes are diverse. People are generally friendly if you’re respectful.

Just don’t come expecting everything to be comfortable and on schedule. That’s not how things work here.

Any questions just ask.