Pros and Cons of Living in Morocco as an Expat

Living in Morocco has plenty of perks, as well as disadvantages. Although you’re probably aware of many but in this article, we will walk you through the pros and cons of living in Morocco as an expat. However, if you need a reminder or some new inspiration, then why not read our list below.

Moroccan Health Care Is World-Class

The World Health Organisation (WHO), which looks at factors such as ‘fairness, equality and overall quality’ when, deciding its rankings, has rated the Moroccan health care system as one of the best in Africa. This is also due to other factors like compulsory social insurance for all workers and universal coverage (the only country in Africa to boast this).

The Weather Conditions

The climate in Morocco is rather diverse. Not only is that, but in some parts of the country you can experience four seasons throughout the year. This means that in winter there’s a good chance of seeing snow on top of the mountains between December and March, while coastal areas usually have mild temperatures with fresh breezes off the sea.

 Morocco Is Safe

While it’s true that many expats in Morocco experience problems with robbery and theft, the country is still safe compared to many other countries. The crime rate has been steadily decreasing over the past few years, and expat home insurance in Morocco will keep your belongings covered if they’re stolen.

Alcohol Options

Morocco is one of those places where you can indulge your passion for good food and wine. Since the country has a fine selection of wines and an abundance of traditional alcoholic drinks. You can even buy alcohol at many supermarkets and corner shops.

Gastronomy

The culinary options in Morocco are endless: couscous, pastilla (a savoury pie), harira (a popular soup), tajine (Morocco’s national dish), mechoui (roast lamb) and much more. You’ll find that most Moroccan food is made from simple, everyday ingredients with only a few spices added for flavour.

Morocco’s Local Culture

As well as exploring Morocco’s past through its fascinating mosques, temples, palaces and archaeological sites, you can also get to know the country’s arts and crafts by visiting local souks (markets). Here you’ll find jewellery, clothes, spices and much more created locally.

Harissa Hot Sauce

The red harissa hot sauce – made from chillies, garlic, olive oil and coriander – is a Moroccan favourite and you can use it as a condiment for meat, fish, salads and tagines. We’ve all heard of harissa, but did you know that there’s also white harissa (a milder version), green harissa (made without garlic) and orange harissa (made with caramelised onions)? The hot sauce is even used as a marinade for meat and fish, adding flavour to meals with minimal effort.

Cons

Easy to Get Arrested

Morocco is known for arresting tourists even when they did nothing wrong. If someone like a tourist steals something, the police will go after any white skinned people that they can find and arrest them without even thinking about it. This makes life extremely difficult for the innocent tourists who are visiting Morocco, because they could get arrested at any time despite not breaking any laws.

Expat Can be fined without Committing a Crime

If you commit any sort of crime in Morocco, you will soon find out that they have an extremely high fine system. The government generally calculates fines by taking the crime’s cost of how much it would cost to hire someone to do the job that the criminal was doing. This system is very new, and has been designed specifically to take money from tourists that are visiting Morocco.

You Can Get Ripped off in Many Ways

When people visit Morocco, there are many stores that will try to sell you clothing. A lot of the time they will overcharge for these items, only because the tourists only have so much money. People who can’t afford this high price may be forced to buy the item even if it is very overpriced just because they don’t want to spend more money at that moment.

Tourists Are Seen As a Resource to Take From

Many people who visit Morocco want the experience of seeing how this country works for them. Unfortunately, there are many people here who see expats as an opportunity to get money out of them in any way possible.

This includes overcharging for food and other goods. Neither the people nor the government have any interest in changing this mentality, making it impossible for anyone to know how much things really cost before they buy them.

No Freedom of Speech or Press

A lot of citizens that live outside of Morocco don’t understand why there are so many problems here because most of them don’t see it. Meanwhile, the Moroccan government silences most people who speak out against their dictator and the press cannot write anything negative about Morocco without getting arrested for it.

The country of Morocco has such a high amount of corruption that no one can really say anything about this unfair system unless you want to be punished by the government. People who visit Morocco can get arrested for saying anything bad about this country, even if it’s true.

In addition, there are many reasons why people cannot travel to morocco and enjoy their time here. The country has a very strict system regarding freedom of speech and press, which is one reason why foreigners have a hard time enjoying their time in morocco.

This system is so strict that it’s almost impossible for someone to say anything about their experience here without getting arrested or fined. Therefore, if you’re interested in traveling to Morocco, you need to be aware of these laws before you decide whether this country is right for you.

Top-Rated Outdoor Activities in Morocco

Morocco is a country rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage. And it’s no wonder that the locals enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. The following list will give you an insight into some of the most popular outdoor activities available in the country for expats to explore.

Hammam/ Hammamat Al Massira – Outdoor bath

The hammam is accompanied by a Hammamat (hammam garden) on site. Also, the hammams are quite popular and you will find many of them in the old quarters, whereas the hammamats are usually not as authentic and more touristic. Some travellers opt to visit both types of baths out of curiosity – but there is absolutely no need to visit both kinds.

Camel Rides In the Desert

Morocco is home to some of the most beautiful and ecologically rich deserts, famous for its vast stretches of sand, palm groves and arid mountains. Camel riding is a popular activity among tourists, especially during saint festivities where all other accommodation capacities are usually fully booked.

Mount Toubkal – The Highest Peak in North Africa

Mount Toubkal is the highest peak in Morocco at 4,167m above sea level. It is also the tallest mountain of Northern Africa and one of its most prominent landmarks. Mount Toubkal towers above the city of Ouarzazate near Western Sahara on the edge of the Anti-Atlas mountain range.

The word Toubkal means “mountain of snow” in Arabic. The summit is an easy hike for most hikers. On the flip sides, this site has become extremely popular among tourists mainly due to the height of the peak and accessibility of the area. Hiking Mount Toubkal can be a great way to capture amazing photographs and videos of the sunrise, but caution should be exercised when hiking this mountain.

Camel Trekking – A Unique Way to Explore the Sahara Desert

Trekking is very popular among tourists in Morocco. Meanwhile, camel trekking has been gaining popularity lately because of the views it offers and a more eco-friendly method of transportation. It is an unforgettable experience which allows visitors to explore rock formations and natural landscape that wouldn’t be accessible by car or foot.

Camels have been a major form of transportation in North Africa for centuries and they continue to play a key role in the Moroccan economy. In fact, they are used as work animals and can carry up to 400 kg. Moreover, they are also widely used for racing especially during the Royal Camel Festival which takes place every year in January.

This tradition dates back to the 12th century and it is meant as a tribute to Mulai Ismail who ruled Morocco from 1672 to 1727. Moroccans celebrate this day by racing their camels through the streets of Fes.

Sand Boarding – A Fun Way to Explore the Sahara Desert

During summer, visitors can enjoy some of Morocco’s most popular sports such as sandboarding and camel trekking. The former is a more extreme sport which involves riding down dunes on a board with wheels. The sport began in the 1960s when surfers began using modified boogie boards to strap their feet on and ride through sand dunes.

Since then, it has evolved into a very popular way to enjoy spectacular views over the desert. Some Moroccan tour operators offer half-day trips which involve experienced instructors who teach newbies how to use the sandboard and how to ride down small sand dunes.

Conclusion

As said earlier, tourism is traditionally a large industry in this country. Many expats who would love to relocate to Morocco can venture into this industry or teach English in private schools. However, you need to understand the reservations to work and live in an Islamic nation. Should in case you love to know more about moving to Morocco, refer to this guide and follow our update.

Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here. 

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

Expatriate communities exist all over the world! These communities gather people from a certain region that live and work abroad. Many expatriates choose to make Morocco their home, whether it is for adventure, employment or study purposes. But, every country has its benefits and drawbacks.

However, Moroccan culture is one that should not go unnoticed. Having lived in the country for several years, I have learnt that there are many ways to enjoy life as an expat. Aside from this, living in Morocco can be a challenge for expats. Some people do it to retire, others go there because of business interests and some just want to live abroad.

Every day offers new opportunities to learn something about yourself, about others and about living life. Ask yourself this: What would I do if I wasn’t afraid or distracted? Let’s be honest, we all give up on our dreams and lower our expectations at some point. It may be because of a fear of failure or it might be because we don’t want to make an effort. Whatever your reason – the fact remains Life is short and there are no second chances.

If you want to live in Morocco as a foreigner, make sure you give yourself the best possible chance – go for it! It may be the last big adventure of your life. You can do whatever you would like to do and create whatever reality you desire – if only you believe that it is possible.

Living in Morocco as a foreigner is an experience you will never regret. It may be tough at times, arriving in a different culture with different traditions and habits can be confusing at first. However, once you get the hang of things – it’s an enriching experience like nothing else. And we’ve got you covered today!

7 Interesting Facts about Living in Morocco

Many people dream of visiting Morocco; it’s a country rich in culture and tradition. It should come as no surprise that it has become a popular holiday destination for many adventurers and food lovers alike, but did you know that there is plenty to do and see right here in the capital? Without further ado, here are seven interesting facts about living in morocco:

1.       If You Need A Beach Day, Visit Agadir

For many Moroccans living in the capital, a trip to the beach is a must at least once a year, and there’s no better place than Agadir. Thanks to its Mediterranean climate, the city provides sunny days with warm water for swimming from April through October. It’s also home to one of the most luxurious hotels in the world, The Royal Mansour Aga Khan.

2.       Art lovers will adore Fez

Although Morocco has plenty of incredible cities, but Fez is unrivalled for its stunning architecture and enchanting art galleries. This ancient city is known for its beautiful ruins of Volubilis, which are over 2000 years old, and its world-class museums.

3.       Moroccan Culture Has Become an International Phenomenon

Ever heard of the game Snakes and Ladders? Many will be surprised to hear that it was created in India by a British man who had spent many years living in Morocco. The country’s vibrant exterior has inspired everything from books to fashion, so it’s no wonder why Morocco is such a popular holiday destination.

4.       Take Time to Relax At the Beach

Miles of golden sand and warm azure water create the perfect conditions for catching some rays or splashing around at one of Morocco’s best beaches. The resort city of Agadir is a must-visit for those looking to enjoy a relaxing holiday without breaking the bank.

5.       Morocco Has a Thriving Fashion Industry

Morocco’s talented designers have even caught the eye of Hollywood, with leading lady Jennifer Lopez sporting a custom Atelier Elbaz gown at this year’s Oscars. And that’s why the country is well known for its stunning hand-woven fabrics, which are often used in traditional outfits.

5. Moroccan Food Is the Best in the World

Thanks to its fusion of North African and Mediterranean cuisine, Moroccan food has become well known around the world for its delicious flavours and use of spices like cumin, paprika, saffron and cinnamon. It’s no wonder why there are plenty of restaurants in the capital specialising in couscous and tagines.

6.       The Country Has a Rich History

In the 14th century, Morocco was known as an international superpower when it came to trade, with contact reaching far into Spain and China. It’s safe to say that a lot has changed since then, but the country still has plenty to offer those looking for a trip back in time.

7.       The Country Is a Haven for Hikers and Explorers

The rugged peaks of Morocco’s Atlas Mountains are almost otherworldly in their beauty, and provide a stunning backdrop for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. From skiing to camping, climbing to mountain biking, everyone is sure to find their own adventure in this picturesque landscape.

Best Places Suitable for Expats in Morocco

Morocco is a wonderful country in North Africa, known for its beaches on the Atlantic Ocean, lovely deserts and RnR resorts. However, when it comes to living there as an expat among local people, Morocco has some major issues with xenophobia.

Luckily enough, there are cities in this country where locals have no problem being friendly toward foreigners. Besides, these cities are a great place to stay if you’re a foreigner living in Morocco. Here’s the list of the top 7 best cities for foreigners to live in Morocco (in no particular order):

Agadir

This coastal city on the Atlantic Ocean is considered one of the most beautiful Moroccan cities. It has wonderful weather and a lot of opportunities to enjoy the sun and sea. The city is also extremely rich in history and cultural value – there are numerous beautiful buildings all over the place. The downside to Agadir is that it’s very touristic, so finding nice locals here might be difficult (although not impossible).

Marrakesh

Unlike Agadir, Marrakesh is definitely not a touristic place in Morocco. It’s probably the most popular city in this country among Moroccans themselves. Marrakesh is also extremely affordable when it comes to living expenses (especially housing), plus it has an amazing Medina (old part of the city) with all kinds of souks and restaurants. The downside to staying in Marrakesh is that it’s extremely crowded, so if you’re not a fan of big cities with millions of people around, this might not be the place for you.

Essaouira

This seaside city on the Atlantic Ocean is like a little piece of heaven on Earth. The weather is nice, the sun keeps shining year-round and locals are usually very friendly to foreigners. Essaouira has many tourist attractions, historic sites and all kinds of entertainment – a perfect place for a vacation or just a weekend getaway. As with Agadir, this city might be too touristic for some people’s taste.

Casablanca

This modern, third biggest city in Morocco is a great place to work as a foreigner. There are many opportunities for employment here and the job market is pretty strong – many big companies have operations in Casablanca (including banks).

The downside to living in Casablanca is that it’s very crowded and polluted, as well as expensive. The city is also very unfriendly toward tourists, although there are beautiful places to visit, such as Hassan II Mosque and Maarif Pasha Palace.

Rabat

This capital of Morocco is a political center for this country – many governmental companies have their headquarters here. It also has a lot of cultural attractions, such as Royal Palace and Dar el-Makhzen (oldest King’s palace in the world). Rabat is also very affordable when it comes to living expenses. The downside of this city is that it’s extremely quiet due to serious security concerns over terrorist attacks.

Fez

This old capital of Morocco is one of the most authentic cities in the country, with lots of culture and history. There are many architectural attractions all over the city, especially old mosques. This place is definitely not for everyone, as it’s extremely crowded (especially during Ramadan), very dirty (sewage floods the streets here pretty often) and unfriendly toward foreigners due to high levels of poverty.

Chefchaouen

This city on the northern coast of Morocco is like a little piece of Europe in Africa. It has amazing blue-colored buildings (and people here love to dye their hair this color). The downside to living in Chefchaouen is that it’s extremely touristic, so not many locals will be interested in befriending you.

Plus, the city isn’t very big and it’s not known for any typical Moroccan cultural or historical sites (there aren’t that many restaurants and bars either).