December 31, 2024
Black tie optional. Please note that this is an outdoor wedding, so we recommend wearing shoes suitable for walking and dancing on grass.
We recommend Rhita Caftan, a boutique with a beautiful selection of traditional Moroccan caftans and takchitas for rent, perfect for the wedding. All orders are placed through their instagram page. Please reach out to them and they will assist you in english and help you with selecting a caftan and delivery. Website (desktop for English): https://location-caftan-marrakech.com/ Instagram: @rhitacaftan.marrakech WhatsApp: +212 6 60 19 92 92
USA: No South Africa: Yes Uganda: Yes India: Yes Egypt: Yes Mauritania: Yes Spain: Yes Guatemala: Yes United Arab Emirates: Yes
If you need a visa, you may be able to apply online at acces-maroc.ma/#/. Otherwise, you’ll need to apply in person. The nearest Moroccan Consulate for Boston travelers is in New York—check consulat.ma/en or email info@moroccanconsulate.com. We recommend starting early to avoid any last-minute stress!
We recommend flying into Marrakech Menara Airport. Flights are available to Marrakech from most major American cities with a layover in France, Spain, or Portugal. Plan for at least one full day of travel on both ends of your trip.
Marrakech is best explored on foot, especially within the Medina (old city center), where many areas are pedestrian-only. For longer distances, taxis are widely available and affordable. Make sure to agree with your driver on the fare before starting your journey, as not all taxis use meters. Alternatively, apps like inDrive (the most popular), Roby, Careem, and Blinc offer convenient ride-hailing services. For a more traditional experience, you can also try a horse-drawn carriage, known as a caleche.
Mema does not recommend driving in Morocco. However, there are many car rental companies in Marrakech, ranging from international brands to local providers. Local companies include OYAMA Car Marrakech, Majdoline Travel, and Medloc Cars. We recommend using an aggregator such as economy booking to compare rates and reviews. We want to warn you that driving in Morocco is very different from driving in the US (even Boston) and we believe that it would probably be easier to just use ride hailing apps and taxis.
Morocco is one of the most linguistically diverse countries in North Africa. Common languages include Moroccan (Darija), Amazigh (Berber), Arabic, French, and English. At Marrakech Menara Airport, signs are in both Arabic and English, and most airport and hotel staff speak English. Don’t hesitate to ask for help!
Expect warmer days with cooler evenings. In October, daytime temperatures range from 70-80°F and nighttime temperatures from 55-65°F. Rain is rare in Marrakech during October and given the city's proximity to the desert, we don't anticipate much precipitation, inshallah.
Morocco operates on Western European Time (WET), which is typically 5 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (EST). However, Morocco does not observe daylight saving time in the same way as the USA, so the time difference may vary depending on the time of year.
Plugs are typically of the European type (C and E). Morocco uses a standard voltage of 220V with a frequency of 50Hz. If you're traveling from the USA, you may need a voltage converter and plug adapter for your electronic devices.
Tipping is a common practice in Morocco and is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, it's customary to leave around 10-15% of the bill. For small services, like porters, taxi drivers, or guides, a few dirhams is appropriate. If you're unsure, rounding up the bill is generally acceptable.
It’s recommended to consult your healthcare provider for any necessary vaccinations or health precautions before traveling. To avoid potential stomach discomfort, it's best to stick to bottled water, which is readily available and affordable throughout the city. There are pharmacies where you can purchase over-the-counter medicines but we recommend bringing some of the essentials like Pepto-Bismol, Tums, anti-diarrheal medicine, etc., just to be safe.
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for the warm days, and a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings. While Morocco is quite liberal, especially in tourist areas, it’s respectful to dress modestly. For women, this generally means covering shoulders and knees, particularly when visiting religious sites. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, especially for exploring the Medina and other historic areas. The attire for our wedding is Black Tie Optional, so please pack accordingly.
A traditional Moroccan hammam is a deeply relaxing and culturally rich experience. It typically involves a multi-step cleansing process in a steam room, where your body is scrubbed with a special exfoliating glove (kessa) and Moroccan black soap. In traditional women's hammams, it’s common for women to be fully naked, but many modern hammams offer disposable undergarments or allow you to wear a bathing suit. After exfoliation, you’ll be rinsed with warm water and may enjoy a soothing massage with Moroccan oils. It’s a wonderful way to unwind and rejuvenate during your visit to Marrakech.
Moroccan dining is a social experience often centered around sharing. It's customary to wash your hands before a meal and eat with your right hand. When eating from a communal dish, take food from the section directly in front of you.
The Medina in Marrakech is a maze of narrow streets and alleys, which can be challenging to navigate. Having a map or using GPS can be helpful, but don’t be afraid to ask locals for directions. Hiring an official guide is also a great way to explore the Medina without getting lost, and you’ll learn a lot about the history and culture along the way.
Street vendors and unofficial guides can be quite persistent in Marrakech, especially around tourist areas. It's polite to decline offers with a simple "no, thank you" or "la, shukran" in Arabic if you're not interested. If you do want to purchase something or hire a guide, agree on the price beforehand to avoid any misunderstandings. Bargaining is standard practice in Morocco and Moroccans are expert bargainers. Don't be afraid to haggle on prices.
Marrakech is known for its vibrant markets, where you can find a wide array of traditional Moroccan crafts. Popular souvenirs include handmade rugs, leather goods, pottery, lanterns, argan oil, and spices like saffron and cumin. Don't forget to practice your bargaining skills in the souks to get the best deals!
Marrakech is steeped in history and culture, with countless attractions to explore. Must-sees include Jardin Majorelle, Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs, and the lively Jemaa el-Fna square. For something unique, consider visiting the serene Le Jardin Secret or taking a day trip to the Agafay Desert. Each of these locations offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s vibrant heritage and natural beauty. For more details, visit our Things to Do page.
Marrakech offers a rich and flavorful cuisine, with dishes that reflect its diverse cultural influences. Must-try dishes include tagine (a slow-cooked stew typically made with meat and vegetables), couscous, pastilla (a sweet and savory pie), and harira (a traditional soup). Street food, like fresh orange juice, Moroccan pancakes (msemen), and grilled meats, is also a delightful part of the local experience.
Currency exchange is widely available in Marrakech at banks, official exchange offices, and hotels. ATMs are also plentiful and offer competitive exchange rates. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors, as not all places accept credit cards. Moroccan dirhams are the local currency, and it’s recommended to exchange money upon arrival.
Staying connected in Morocco is easy with the purchase of a local SIM card or international eSIM, which you can get at the airport or various shops in the city. Major providers include Maroc Telecom, Orange, and Inwi. Wi-Fi is also widely available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants, though it may be slower than what you’re used to in the USA.
While photography is generally welcomed in Marrakech, especially in public places, it’s important to be respectful. Always ask for permission before photographing people, particularly in the Medina, where some locals may prefer not to be photographed. In some religious sites or private spaces, photography may be restricted. Be sure to observe any posted signs or guidelines and be respectful.
Morocco operates on a more relaxed sense of time, often referred to as "Moroccan Time." This means that things may not always start exactly on time, and people generally have a more laid-back approach to punctuality. While this is part of the charm of Morocco, it's a good idea to be patient and flexible with schedules, especially when dealing with local services. Be sure to account for Moroccan Time with any plans you make. While Moroccan Time is a real thing, our wedding will start precisely at 7:00PM. Please arrive on time.
Marrakech is generally safe, but like in any major tourist destination, it's important to stay vigilant. Keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas like Jemaa el-Fna, the windy sreets of the Medina, the night market, and the souks. Avoid flashing valuable items like expensive jewelry or large amounts of cash. It’s also wise to stay in well-lit areas at night and be cautious of overly persistent street vendors or unofficial guides. While Marrakech is generally safe, like all cities, it does have pick-pockets, scammers, and con artists. Be sure to listen to your intuition, be mindful of your belongings, and act like you have some sense.
Bargaining is a common practice in Marrakech’s souks, and it’s expected when shopping for goods. Start by offering about half of the initial asking price and be prepared for some back-and-forth negotiation. Keep the exchange friendly and light-hearted, as it’s considered part of the experience. If you’re not satisfied with the price, don’t hesitate to walk away—often, the seller will call you back with a better offer.
Marrakech has several hospitals and clinics that provide medical care, including private facilities with English-speaking staff. It’s a good idea to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. In case of an emergency, ask your hotel for assistance, as they can help arrange for medical services or direct you to the nearest hospital.
Marrakech offers a variety of nightlife options, from traditional music performances in riads and cultural venues to modern lounges and rooftop bars. While Morocco is a Muslim country with certain restrictions on alcohol, many establishments, especially in tourist areas, serve drinks. However, always be respectful of local customs and dress codes, even when enjoying the nightlife. Also, again, act like you have some sense.