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Sorry that you felt inclined to register for Lonely Planet purely in order to resurrect this old thread... It's rare that people in Morocco actually rob visitors, but they are experts at persuading them to part with money. Key to a successful visit is the ability to smile, laugh, and say "no". And keep saying "no".

So a waiter took your money off your table. Would you allow that back in the USA? And if not, why would you allow that in Morocco?

And after being persuaded into spending $400 on a couple of rugs that were probably worth a fraction of that price, you then gave the guy another $20! Are you nuts? $400 is about 3400dh or something like 60 days wages for the carpet weavers.

And as for ATMs being closed on Sundays... Maybe the electronics needed a rest. ROTFLMAO

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Marocfan, Morocco was my 26th country. Most of the people I've met who have gone to Morocco didn't have good experiences.

Tim, don't be sorry that I had to register with LP. I wanted to share my story so that people who are interested in going to Morocco will know that this could possibly happen to them.

Regarding the carpets, considering their opening offer was $2000 the final price didn't seem that bad.

I'm really glad that you've had good experiences in Morocco and that you always know what to do no matter what situation you are in. I hope you never know what it feels like to feel vulnerable and preyed upon. If I ever go back, I will be older, wiser, and just as self-assured as you. wink

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Quote from your previous posting: "Out of the forty-six countries I've been to...." You do seem a bit confused.

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Sigh. Really? You don't understand that I'm saying that out of the 46 countries I've been to, Morocco was the 26th on the list?

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I'm more curious about the report that "most of the people I've met who have gone to Morocco didn't have good experiences." I am aware that women sometimes complain about being harassed in Morocco, but I'd have to say that the overwhelming majority of the tourists I met there said that they liked it. For some, it was a favorite worldwide.

I'm wondering if there is an element of self-selection going on. I had a blast in Morocco, so I spoke to others who had a blast--or said they did, or hadn't yet devolved into abject misery, or something. Jisolee had a terrible time there, and apparently hung around with others who felt similarly. It makes me wonder: if we'd traded places, would I have started to see things through a misery filter, while Jisolee suddenly found herself having loads of fun?

Mark

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"Misery loves company."

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Hi Mark,

Thanks for not just attacking my post and for having something constructive to say.

I would have loved to have had a blast in Morocco. As I had stated in my original post, I had saved what I thought to be the best for last. Unfortunately, other tourists I met in Morocco also expressed that they felt like walking ATMs and the Japanese couple I had dinner with were ready to leave Morocco two days into their two-week trip. A Norwegian man I briefly traveled with had to factor tipping into his daily budget. The tour group I signed up (comprised of Europeans, Americans, Chinese, and Japanese) with to go trekking loved the desert because we were away from the harassment. I'm an active couchsurfer- I host and surf and have met a lot of people there. Those who have been don't speak too positively of Morocco because their most vivid memories are of the harassment and tipping. Co-workers have also relayed similiar stories. If you and I could have traded places, I'd be so down.

As I stated in my original post, it wasn't all bad. I met kind people, drank in the gorgeous scenery, joked with friendly merchants, enjoyed the food, and laughed at the ingenious ways four adults could fit on one scooter. I do wonder if I go back now what would Morocco be like, now that I have a better idea of what to expect.

Where in Morocco did you go, Mark? Did you go off the beaten path?

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have you been to India yet?

I do believe it is worse there.

and yes I thought this thread was long dead the origianl poster must be