Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Morocco for Kids
Morocco is ideal for parents who once travelled to intrepid destinations, and don't neces-
sarily fancy a Western poolside now they have knee-high travelling companions. Compared
with Asia, Morocco is easily accessible from Europe and North America; Marrakesh is less
than four hours from London. And when you touch down, you'll find that children open
numerous doors, getting you closer to the heart of this family-oriented country.
Meeting the Locals
Moroccans love children so much that you may even want to bring a backpack to carry
smaller kids, in case they grow tired of the kissing, hugging, gifts and general adulation.
Locals have grown up in large families, and children break the ice and encourage contact
with Moroccans, who are generally very friendly, helpful and protective towards families.
As you travel the countryside, women may pick up their own child and wave from their
doorway. Such moments emphasise your children's great benefit: having yet to acquire any
stereotypes about Africa and the Middle East, their enduring impression of Morocco is
likely to be its people's warmth and friendliness.
Of course, this certainly doesn't mean parents receive special treatment from the sales-
men in the country's souqs. However, even the grizzliest shopkeepers generally welcome
Western women and children, as it gives their store the image of having a broad, family-
friendly appeal. Letting your kids run amok in carpet shops can also be an excellent bar-
gaining technique!
Adapting to Morocco
Morocco will be an unfamiliar environment to many, and children will probably take a day
or so to adapt, but it has plenty of familiar and fun aspects that kids can relate to. Hectic
first impressions will be countered by exciting finds like the snakes charmers on the
Djemaa el-Fna. In the countryside, simple things like beehives and plants endlessly fascin-
ate children. Dedicated play facilities in parks and public gardens are very rare.
