Exploring Morocco as a Solo Parent: Solo Parenting and Travel
Traveling can be a stressful experience for parents, particularly solo parents. Planning a family holiday can take weeks or even months, and it can require lots of organization and research. However, establishing a family travel tradition, and inspiring our children with a love of travel is a wonderful and fulfilling journey. We traveled alone with our seven-year-old and created lifelong family memories.
Solo family travel is not without its trials and tribulations. Starting from the travel arrangements to the often solo-parental team navigating airports, train stations, and public transit systems, we learn to be mindful of the difficulties that solo parents face. Here is a guide to travel with a solo parent in Morocco.
We all want the best for our children, and that can mean different things to each of us – time spent with family, close friendships, education, love, companionship, and support. For a solo parent who is two people in one, the steadfastness and caring of friendship, loyalty, and understanding can be a lifeline. Poor health, financial problems, or chronic unemployment have a long-term impact on children but it is possible to provide a secure environment for children raised alone, while also creating special memories for the years to come.
Although traveling with children is wonderful, taking even a short trip with only one parent can deepen your family relationship and make great memories. Very few families have the chance to dedicate a holiday to the sole relationship between mother and child. With so many means of accommodation available, it is ideal to find a destination where tourist infrastructure and hospitality can help make it a memorable journey.
Why Choose Morocco for Solo Parenting Travel?
Cultural Richness and History
You may be wondering why you should choose Morocco for your solo parent trip. There are many options out there, but Morocco’s unique blend of warmth, color and history make it a perfect candidate. Although I have traveled widely in Western Europe, it was in Morocco that I first became conscious of the brilliant layering of distinct cultures and periods, a blending that fascinates travelers to this day. During your trip, you will encounter traditional Berber villages and ruins of the ancient Roman Empire, extravagant palaces and souks filled with artisan products. In addition, Morocco has important historical ties to Europe, and many modern-day adventurers travel to private beaches and active ski resorts that are as “European” as those in Spain and France.
Family-Friendly Activities
Some of my fondest travel memories with my child involve the everyday, intimate experiences of learning new ways of living and playing. Between our magnificent ascent of Mount Toubkal, the friendly hustle and bustle of Marrakech, the majestic, snow-capped Atlas Mountains and the wonderful experiences, Morocco offers lots of fun family-friendly activities. The camel trek and overnight camp was my child’s choice highlight! The Moroccan desert was breathtakingly magical, but from what I have heard, children would love getting lost in the colorful alley-ways of the city as well as have a day’s fun visiting the kids’ activities and interacting with the gentle desert dwellers.
Safety and Accessibility
It is perfectly alright to travel solo with children. The key beauty of Morocco, being experienced already since ancient times, is that the country is so easily accessible, its friendly people always ready to offer assistance, plus of course, transportation being so simple too while shopping in the local souks is so much fun! You will find everyone concerned about your children’s well-being, going out of their way to make the experience enjoyable. Despite the huge differences in customs, people here are just as eager to be nice and caring. In fact, throughout my travels, when strangers noticed they were moms and kids traveling alone, they treated us with the utmost respect and care.
Cultural Richness and History
When visitors first arrive in Morocco, they are often struck by the diversity of its architecture, dress, and language and by the unique contrasts between city and country life. Five major population groups contribute to Morocco’s diversity: the Berbers, who came here 3,000 years ago from North Africa; the Arabs, who conquered the area in the seventh century; the Africans from sub-Saharan Africa; the Jews, who settled here over 2,000 years ago; and the Europeans — especially the French and Spaniards — who became influential in the 1800s. Today, services, including tourism, banking, commerce, and government, employ half of the people in Morocco. Tourism is one of the largest contributors to Morocco’s economy. Morocco’s cultural past is long, rich, and varied, influenced by the peoples who settled and traded here. Stone-age and prehistoric cave drawings can be found in eastern Morocco. The Phoenicians, who traveled from the eastern Mediterranean, were among the first traders there, establishing settlements along the coast from the 8th Century B.C. The Punic and Roman Empires later conquered areas of the northern part of Morocco. Islam is the most important part of Moroccan culture and is evident in the architecture, language, and customs. When the Arabs and their culture came north from Arabia in the seventh century, they brought the Islamic religion. Today, most Moroccans are Sunni Muslims. Their mosques can also be seen all over Morocco. The largest is the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. It is the only mosque in Morocco open to non-Muslims, although only Muslims are allowed inside. The mosque spans 26 acres and has the tallest minaret in the world.
Family-Friendly Activities
Adventurous activities and trips for families and those traveling with older children can also include fun such as kite surfing, river rafting, sand boarding, or 4WD trips in the deserts. Older children and teens may also enjoy the hiking and mountain activities, the exciting but challenging hike to the summit of a mountain, or even a private guided meal and overnight stay with a local family during your hike. Children may also want to give horseback riding and riding into the countryside a try or visit any number of museums and cultural exhibitions that are not just destined for adults. Volunteer opportunities exposing kids to the culture and local communities could also be fun and teaching. Maybe your children would want to partake in a surf camp during your vacation. Surfing with its beaches and oceans, fun, and culture would also be family-friendly.
When traveling with kids, consider also that you may also want a family-friendly vacation temperature. Like any popular place, the desert is the right place for family tours to discover the exquisite beauty. This colorful land of sand dunes and crystal clear blue sky makes every single moment picture perfect. “If you’re wondering what to do with a toddler look no further. Even with a littler kid, there is a lot to offer – markets, squares, gardens, palaces, and best of all – an entire town filled with culture, history, street performers, and food. But while a family trip will keep you busy, it is not the only place to travel with kids. From the desert to the mountains to sand dunes to the beach to different towns, our attempts to travel with our toddler took us all over over the course of one month. Each city was different and offered its own experiences. It was different from any another travel we liked and worth taking.”
Safety and Accessibility
Safety and accessibility are things many solo parents consider before traveling to a foreign country. However, with Morocco’s culture of hospitality and willingness to lend a helping hand, one need not feel apprehensive about traveling to Morocco as a solo parent. Despite the great distances traveled to get to or around Morocco, traveling with children is entirely possible. Most cities are equipped with ample amenities, and children will certainly be fascinated by the colorful souks, stunning palaces, tasty food, and other local delights.
Safety should always be a consideration while visiting other countries; however, it’s important to keep perspective. Disturbed by negative travel experiences, some people may wish to steer clear of Morocco entirely. While this is certainly commendable – and discretionary – these authors likely had experiences that were less than picture perfect for a variety of reasons. Morocco truly does boast a culture of hospitality, largely thanks to the Arab Berber people, who welcome visitors with open arms. Even discreetly wandering around without pre-arranging a tour or accommodation, one is likely to be invited in for mint tea more than once – a symbol of friendship and hospitality in Moroccan culture. Be specific about your needs and know what you’re able to handle. Planning ahead and remaining smart and informed can help make your visit a positive experience.
When planning your visit to Morocco, consider when – and what sites – you’ll be visiting. Some attractions are more kid-friendly than others. If you have older kids, you may be interested in visiting more “adult” locations, or kids may enjoy time at the beach to cool down in the heat. In places such as the Sahara Desert, it is often recommended to travel with a tour guide or private driver; engaging in fun desert activities, such as camel trekking, may be more enjoyable than trying to navigate the area yourself.
Preparing for Your Trip
In addition to the usual pre-trip considerations, planning a trip abroad with dependents presents parents with some unique challenges. This is especially true when it comes to gathering all necessary documentation and creating logistics. Even toddlers or babies may require some serious jumps through legal hoops depending on your exact travels. And because you want everyone to be able to relax and have fun together, it’s essential to plan thoroughly, from packing all the gear to budgeting for the trip. This is especially true if it’s just you and your kids — with no backup — exploring Morocco together. In this section, we’ll dive into the nitty-gritty details so that you can enjoy your Morocco adventure safely and without worry. Explore packing lists of travel essentials for you and your children, as well as advice about budgeting for your trip, and finding the best bargains. As well, we will discuss unique Moroccan travel restrictions and requirements that solo parents should consider for travel documentation. But first, let’s start with the nitty-gritty details. In this section, we’ll dive into the preparation requirements and items that are unique to parents choosing to visit Morocco with children and how to navigate some of the more difficult parts of the process. In each subsection, different considerations will be discussed, including budgeting, packing lists, as well as documentation and travel considerations. Parents traveling with kids generally have a more complicated packing job. You may want to focus on getting your travel baggage down to what you can comfortably carry. Morocco offers several conveniences for traveling parents, regardless of your destination in the country. However, there are some essentials you will want to have with you. Preparing ahead of time can help ensure that you are well-stocked without going overboard. In the event that this is your first-time traveling abroad with children and require some gear that may be available for rent in some cities, consider bringing for the kids, including baby travel essentials, possible kid-travel items for rent, packing lists, as well as those items that you may need at your destination.
Travel Documentation and Requirements
Morocco has a reputation for being a destination that is relatively easy to visit, especially in terms of travel documentation. Citizens of the USA, Canada, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and some European countries do not require a visa and can stay for up to 90 days. Other countries may require a visa; requirements will be specified by your government’s foreign affairs office. If this is for an education trip or involves sending long-term missions, a visa may not be issued, or the duration may be shortened. Be sure to check with the Moroccan embassy or consulate.
When entering the country, it is mandatory to hold a passport with at least six months’ validity before expiration and free pages at the time of entry. Airfare to Morocco may or may not be requested in writing, but it is recommended to check it in advance. The hotels you plan to stay in are not required to reserve in advance, but if you are arriving late at night, it is an advantage to have one. For July / August, a hotel reservation is recommended. Any departure of foreigners other than an international flight must be registered in advance. In the case of a group tour, the travel agency may be able to respond appropriately. However, when traveling individually, especially on a tourist visa, you may be subject to a fine, so be sure to let the airline know. When re-entering during blogging, you should report to the embassy.
Packing Essentials for Parents and Kids
When it comes to packing essentials, always opt for light fabrics. Summer in Morocco is extremely hot, especially during day time. Do pack long sleeved clothes to safely dress your kid for the hot sun. In the North, summer can also mean rain. I recommend a light jacket. Winter is mild along the coast and in the South. However it can get really cold in the Mountains. It never snows in Marrakesh or in the South, but it can snow in the North Mountains. As Morocco offers so many different climates, it is quite tricky to know when and where to go. Don’t forget to check the weather before you pack.
Importantly, put all things together for your kids in one place in your suitcase. Then you can easily access them when you need them. You won’t have the time to dig through everything for that one thing you suddenly need. Don’t forget sunscreen (even in winter) and insect repellent. An insulated bottle is very useful to keep your drinks cool or warm. Packs of food for emergencies are also a good idea. You will find many storks and cats in Morocco. A girl dress, pigeon-sized cookies and sea food are a sure way to make a Moroccan kid happy. Toys are also useful. Palm trees and sand are everywhere, so shovels can be an option too. A few travel games might fit into your luggage as well. It is useful to have special snacks that your children love and don’t easily find in Morocco. It is also nice to have a souvenir from home for emergencies or tiredness. Don’t worry if you run low. So many kids in Morocco enjoy a cookie or candy that it will not be wasted. Just tell them no if it is not an occasion. However, do not bring too many. It could tempt your child to give away too much.
Budgeting for a Solo Parent Trip
Creating a travel budget for family travel in the age of influencer tourism can seem like a daunting task, as travel costs tend to add up quite fast. Risky business, it can often feel like your wallet is being shaken down by the vacation ogre. We’re here to tell you that travel budgeting pillaging is entirely avoidable. We have some budgeting tips that will help you find incredible deals, avoid excess spending, and reclaim your money to funnel into making travel memories with your family. When deciding what your travel budget will be, there are a few parameters to think about.
Keeping in mind, there are many costs involved in traveling that can be fixed or relatively flexible. Your largest expense will most likely be either flights or accommodation. If you are not particularly picky about choosing accommodation, be it a 5-star luxury hotel or a quaint family-run guest house, and you have no preference for flight times or airlines, you will find that it is extremely easy to funnel your money into both categories. However, if you are like most families, you will have preferences that make it difficult to visualize what costs need to be allocated for a successful, stress-free trip.
The budget for airfare can be particularly tricky, as availability and pricing can change frequently and suddenly. When traveling as a solo parent, you know your destination and your destination may even have specific flight parameters, such as a school holiday or busy travel season. It’s common for families to get tied to specific flight dates, so be prepared to set your budget when you’re able to book your tickets and the costs match your budget. If your travel plans are more flexible, we recommend taking advantage of fare comparison sites to help you find the best deal.
Traveling with Kids: Tips and Tricks
This essay does not aspire to provide a book of Know-how and Hacks for traveling with kids. The internet is full of these tips. And like the majority of the parents, we have learned with experience. However, I will share with you some of our hacks and tips, people who use to travel a lot, enjoy traveling and also after doing it several times with children. Here are our tips that seemed essential to us when traveling with children. Please, follow our steps to Facilitate Travel with Kids.
Essential Tool with Kids: get them involved! As soon as they are able to put words together to express their preferences. And to be able to combine their will with the reality offered by the destination options and each moment of travel. And define together with them the themes, the genres of experiences, and the priority visits or activities.
But the most interesting thing is to get them involved in planning and making decisions from a distance. Prepare the route and the essential visits together, create maps or lists that they can color, tick, or fill once the trip is over. Look for information together, check websites, travel guides, blogs. Decide and make lists of the souvenirs of the trip that they will like to make at the destination. Ask them to keep an eye on their accounts and encourage them to learn the words and basic sentences of the language of the country we are going to travel to.
It is the small details, emotions, and participatory experiences during the trip that will remain in the memory of our little travelers. Traveling with our children can broaden their world view, strengthen values, and improve individual well-being. But parents have to be careful and look for balance, having fun together and alone without forcing either party.
We all embark on adventure and cross over into the unknown, leaving behind friendship and routine. Many parents are surprised by the amount of luggage we carry for kids. A tip: do not hesitate to share what you transport with children and above all avoid pants. Beware of embarking on beach destinations with one child!
Engaging Children in Travel Planning
Let’s be honest. Properly engaging children when traveling is challenging. It is easy to think that travel inspiration and decision-making rests squarely with parents who either fully or mostly foot the bill. However, parents owe it to their children to listen to their ideas, suggestions and wish lists or bucket lists. Why is that? Because travel is not just about seeing famous landmarks. Because destinations offer vastly different experiences than what children might have right at home. In other words, children don’t know what they want most of the time, because they have nothing to compare to. Their frame of reference is often their hometown or market. But that is no barrier to proposing different scenarios and see where it leads. Hopefully inspiring a few “wow” moments.
Take Morocco, for example. Cities like Essaouira and Agadir don’t look, feel or taste like home or have anything in common with the routines of other cities. But just like any market place in any city has an immigration experience, so does Morocco. So visiting Fez doesn’t need to be a boring excursion. On the contrary. It is a chance to be among the Moroccan people in their marketplace and shops.
Now back to travel engagement and inspiration. Kids will naturally get excited about travel when they feel included in the planning stages. Traveling with children means travel days are mostly long bus or car rides or train rides hence seeing Morocco is not only about sights and activities. Morocco requires that parents and children spend time together discussing and planning chosen itineraries and activities. The planning process can be casual during family discussions on the dinner table or more formally through discussions based on visual presentations shown on devices. Words and pictures will prompt children to chime in with their own travel ideas and desires. No activity is too mundane to be ignored. But that doesn’t mean all activities will be part of the trip. Rational discussions will come into playManaging Expectations and Comfort
While it is important to help kids understand that not everything will go according to plan or be how they expect it to be, it is equally important that we parents understand their need to comfort. For some kids, travel can totally disrupt their daily rhythm and not in a good way. Keeping their routines as similar as possible may just save a trip from disaster. For example, is your child used to eating at a certain time? If you have an itinerary packed with activities that makes you miss what is usually their meal time, have plan B ready. Can’t wait until a meal is served at a restaurant? Pack some snacks. If you’re at an excursion that has a designated finish time but you know you haven’t eaten in a while? Feel free to excuse yourself early and eat when you get back. Same goes for sleep! Children become cranky when they haven’t eaten or slept, and guess what? Grumpy kids equal grumpy parents. If you didn’t have the foresight to pack snacks or a backup plan for meals, please don’t take it out on your children and make them eat whatever is offered at a place that you’d rather not be. Sometimes waiting it out “for the experience” can backfire on you. That said, traveling is a wonderful way to experience the world together and it is normal to want to push our children. But we should know our own children well enough to balance comfort with willingness to try new things. Again, make sure you and your child are in sync and communicate clearly.
If you are visiting a mosque, a conservative village or a homestay with families, you may also want to prepare for dress code choices. Although discussions about covering yourself can wait until they’re older, I don’t find it easy to explain to toddlers or infants that they must cover their arms and legs to socialize with a particular person. Depending on the seasons, there are loose-fitting clothes made for kids that would be great. Even if it seems unlikely your path will cross with an environment that requires you to dress conservatively, it doesn’t hurt to throw in a long sleeve, light jacket, and pants in your travel gear.
Health and Safety Precautions
Health and safety precautions are prime considerations for any travel destination, and especially when traveling with minors. This is especially true in Morocco, where medical attention, while available, may not be as reliably of high quality as that found in many Western countries, especially in small towns and rural areas. Travelers should always check with their local physician or travel clinic about any vaccinations or other medications that might be recommended in preparation for travel to Morocco.
In addition to recommended vaccinations such as hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and rabies, children may also need to take steps to reduce their risk of illness caused by food and waterborne germs, including practicing good hand hygiene while traveling, eating and drinking only safe food and beverages, and avoiding close contact with sick people. It is important to note that some practical precautions might be difficult to enforce for young children. Anti-diarrheal medications should not be given to children under the age of 12 without the recommendation and guidance of your physician. But other medicines, such as antihistamines and pain relievers, can treat uncomfortable symptoms. Also pack rehydration solutions in case of need! The most common illness in travelers is diarrhea, so avoid risky foods and beverages to protect your family’s gut health.
Finally, family travel is important for bonding, but has its difficulties, and extra precautions may be warranted in Morocco. For travelers going to remote areas, be aware that medical services may be distant. Be sure to include insect repellent, sunscreen, and mini first aid kits with those extra doses of needed daily medications from home. Don’t forget to bring anti-allergy medications or even a necessary EpiPen if your child has had reactions in the past and wear appropriate clothing for the weather as well as proper shoes. Parents of traveling teenagers may breathe easier, but having a talk about general travel safety is still a good idea. No doubt such meetings will allow the family to review issues that may be of special concern, such as any chronic condition that their trip might aggravate.
Exploring Moroccan Cities: A Parent’s Guide
Moroccan cities are busy and surreal places. They are no doubt visually and culturally striking, with eclectic architecture, buzzing activity, and hundreds of local scents wafting through the air. Some areas will feel comfortable and others a little less so. With kids, it’s all about expectations. The markets and alleyways are crowded with locals and can feel a little overwhelming to little ones. Don’t expect the same level of service or consideration you receive in a Western city, particularly regarding street food and public restrooms. Still, Moroccan cities are like nowhere else on Earth and your kids will love exploring alongside you!
The people here are extraordinarily hospitable, and if your child is in the mood to throw a few smiles or practice a wee bit of something that resembles Arabic, you’ll be amazed at the reaction that gets. As for cuisine, you’re in for a treat. Moroccan food is diverse, mildly spicy, and delicious. Better still, aside from what you might get on a street stall, the taste is consistent across the country. Couscous is served every Friday, and tagines are a staple at most meals. You’ll encourage healthy eating habits in your kids as the food here is generally what we all agree is good: vegetables, meat, and more vegetables, cooked to perfection and without preservatives. Anything else — pastrami vegetables sandwiches, pizza — probably isn’t worth it. And if you’re like many parents, you’ll want to take the opportunity to do a food safari, cooking up those memorable Moroccan flavors, before heading back to your home kitchen. You won’t feel guilty for your brief sojourn into food excess.
Marrakech: A Family Adventure
Marrakech is one of the top five most visited cities in the world, thanks to its location near the Atlas mountains, its easy pace, and its family-friendly tours and activities. When you visit Marrakech, don’t forget to wander away from the tourist traps and settle for some inspiring window shopping. While you’re there, practice your negotiation skills: bargaining is a fun pastime for locals and visitors alike. Within just a few blocks, you can experience a diverse range of sights, sounds, and tastes. Glimpse the rainbow hues and intricate tile work of the Ben Youssef Medersa and Ali Ben Youssef Mosque; explore the labyrinth of souks, where artisans are busy working; relax in the shade of a palm tree beside a brimming cactus garden or take in the color and chaos of one of the liveliest squares in the world, Jemaa el Fna, where you can find fortune tellers, snake charmers, musicians, food vendors, and craftsmen. Allow your kids to pick something special that they’ve discovered and witnessed how things are made. Then, head back for some fresh mint tea or some ice cream to cool everyone down, while you discuss the fun of the day. From sunup until well after sunset, the Jemaa el Fna is a sight to behold: mule-driven carts delivering oranges, vegetables, and spices shuffle in and out, tourists gawk and take pictures, and merchants plead for their business. Many restaurants line the square, and how you choose to eat here is up to you. You can gamble on one of the many food stalls that line the square at night, sit at one of the café terraces that look over the Jemaa el Fna, or sample at a few stalls and head elsewhere for dessert.
Fes: Culture and History for All Ages
Morocco has some simple rules about what you can and can’t do with your kids. With that in mind, Fes is not a quiet place to bring a toddler. The Medina is a labyrinth of narrow alleys, so your best option is to park at the Ziyat entrance or the New Town, and walk in. Consider also bringing in a backpack as strollers can hinder you in swarms of people. Neither is it a strange option to go in with a nanny. You’ll find many college students looking to make some cash to have a lookout while you get lost in this city’s magic. On the other hand, if you want to be looking for the colors and textures of Moroccan arts and crafts of woodwork, textiles, ceramics, then Fes is a well-deserved trip.
Fes is not as touristy as Marrakech, so you may run into some locals when you get into the small workshops where craftsmen spend their days. Located to the North of the Atlas Mountains, not far from the Mediterranean coast, Fes is made of two medinas, the bigger of which is the largest car-free urban area in the world. It is sadly known for the stench of the tanneries that let animal skins dry, but if you ask a guide kindly, they may take you through the small renowned shops without exposing you to the worst of the smell. It is easy to become disoriented in the maze of souqs and go hours without finding the site you are looking for, so take your time and let yourself get lost. You will find unique artisan shops selling indescribably beautiful pieces in ceramics, leather, wood, silk and metal, and even mukmuk, little hide camels embroidered with wool.
Casablanca: Modernity Meets Tradition
Casablanca does have a reputation among Moroccans as being the least interesting of all Moroccan cities, and they may be right. However, Casablanca is a city that is really fun to visit for a day or two. The word “modern” comes to mind when we think of Casa – and we think of wide boulevards, tall buildings, flat-roofed houses reminiscent of Miami, upscale shopping malls, and gourmet restaurants. Because Casablanca is Morocco’s largest city, it is the economic and financial center of the country, and Moroccan and foreign businessmen are constantly on the move in town. Casa is also the departure point for foreign visitors who tour the country for weeks, and some of them just want to sit in a café and relax or get themselves a quick foot massage, just to unwind after a day’s plane trip.
Casablanca is a very easy city to walk around in, as the district around the mosque is not too big and is definitely pedestrian-friendly. You can watch locals partake in their daily lives, with shops, street vendors and bakeries everywhere selling all kinds of food. Then visit some historical monuments such as the Cathedral of Notre Dame de Lourdes, the Royal Palace, the villas of art deco architecture, and the Boulevard de la Corniche. A very lively seaside promenade during the day, at night it transforms into a Moroccan version of the boardwalk – a conflicting mix of casinos, bars and clubs with a motley array of families out for a stroll and some late-shopping teenagers at the seaside shops. All this only a short hour away from the calm of the city’s Atlantic beaches.
And of course, your stay in Casa would not be complete without a visit to the Hassan II Mosque, the largest mosque in Morocco and the 3rd largest in the world. Its magnificent minaret can be seen from almost anywhere in the city. Built between 1987 and 1993 right over the Atlantic Ocean, this mosque is a colossal work of art, and now is a must-see for tourists visiting the city.
Chefchaouen: The Blue City Experience
Renowned for its charming, cerulean-hued streets, Chefchaouen is a utopia for wandering and exploring. Strolling the medina lanes leads to a plethora of souvenirs that differ from the ubiquitous Moroccan offerings like leather goods or pottery. Instead, the mountainside blue city is full of wool woven rugs, from delicate small trinkets to larger pieces. Children adore Chefchaouen for its laid-back vibes, where you can absorb the quirks of this tiny city without the stress of big city activity. They’ll particularly enjoy the cafe serving freshly squeezed orange juice and the green tea served with pine nuts and pastries piled high with honey at the square, which also features a mosque. The hamsas, placed inside and over doors around the city, fascinate kids. Hamsas are wise, protective hands that keep the evil eye away from folks who display them. Exploring the neighborhoods above the medina is exhilarating, where kids can run free and enjoy some mountain lounging after all the cheese and sausage. Chefchaouen’s stunning backdrop of blue-tinted buildings housing red-rooved, pine-fringed homes complemented by the backdrop of the jagged mountains is a feast for your eyes and your camera. An early morning or late evening walk around the kasbah is definitely recommended. Children can also thrill to the sight of locals dressed in traditional garb tending to flocks of goats. And if you choose to hike up to a scenic viewpoint, you’re in for a visual treat. On clear days, the view south toward the plains is majestic.
Outdoor Activities for Families in Morocco
A family friendly country, Morocco has been blessed with a friendly climate, varied geography, culture, and strong history. The rich Moroccan surface not only offers visitors shopping, feasting, and cultural excursions but also an array of outdoor activity options like deserts, Sahara dunes, mountain biking, sea kayaking, river rafting, trekking, climbing, snowboarding and horseback riding, to name a few. Almost all activities can be performed year round in various parts of the country.
The imposing heights of the Atlas mountains offer a dazzling variety of hiking trails. There are short walks or longer treks-cum-camping expeditions, from easy strolls down the valley floor to challenging summit ascents. You can walk for a few hours or up to a week, in virtually any season. You’ll come across Berber villages untouched by time, on slopes terraced with olive, walnut and fruit trees; valley oases covered with palm trees, thickets of wild flowers and poppy fields; red cliffs rising sharply from the ground and snowcapped peaks silhouetted against a cobalt blue sky. Visitors looking for some adventure and thrills should try indoor climbing. It has been around since the late 1980s but has only recently found favour. Although a team sport, climbing can be done alone, two on the same wall or, one climber in one part of the wall while the other belays in a different zone.
Morocco has long been associated with the desert but tourism aside, few people realize that the Sahara comprises some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in the world. It possesses an unearthly quality, one so out of place in the modern world. With some of the most undisturbed expanses of sand dunes covered with silken curtains of grainy sand and temperatures reaching all the way to 35°c in summer, there are not many places in the world where you can ride camels, sleep in Berber tents, or embark on a 4×4 expedition without support vehicles.
Hiking in the Atlas Mountains
Exploring the Atlas Mountains as a family offers numerous opportunities for hiking and trekking. The Toubkal National Park close to Imlil is undoubtedly the most famous, but it could be a bit challenging for little ones and smaller kids. However, there are lots of other areas to enjoy hiking routes or a multi-day trek alongside Berber families, mules, and goats. You can spend the nights camping or either in local guesthouses. Hiking a few hours to explore different Berber villages, meadows, and valleys is a great family activity for families into hiking with younger and older children.
In Imlil, there are several small family-run guesthouses welcoming hikers as they explore this beautiful part of the Atlas Mountains. Most of them are located a little bit above Imlil, offering beautiful views of Imlil and the neighboring mountains. Ask for a guesthouse where a beautiful, traditional Kasbah made in adobe, perched on top of Imlil village, was newly built welcoming families for a family trip in the mountains. Visit the family who still lives in the kasbah and taste Berber pancakes, around a small Berber fire in their cozy living-room. The owner also works to promote local culture and is involved in charity work to help the local population and preserve local traditions.
Around 3 hours from Imlil, you can arrive at the famous Toubkal Refuge at the base of Mount Toubkal. From the refuge, do not hesitate to set a hike with a local mountain guide towards the summit of Mount Toubkal to enjoy nice landscapes. You can also spend a night in local guesthouses in one of the typical Berber villages, before continuing your journey in the Berber country, hiking towards Aroumd village or Marabout Sidi Chamharouch.
Desert Adventures in Merzouga
Merzouga is the gateway to some of the most beautiful desert scenery in Morocco. Towering dunes, desert palms, and beautiful adobe kasbahs are just some of the wonderful places waiting to be explored. Merzouga makes a great base for families to explore the desert and enjoy camel trekking, desert camping, and 4×4 adventures as well as try sandboarding on the highest Moroccan dunes. Adventurous families may also like to do an overnight camel trek with kids.
Many travelers make the trek from the south up to Merzouga for the major attraction; the dune landscape of Erg Chebbi. This is a vast area of deep ochre and amber colored dunes that reach heights of over 150 meters and stretch for over 30 kilometers. There are several areas that are easy to access from the village yet it is touristy with cafés and hotels looking over the dunes to Morocco’s highest dune, at least during the day. With a little bit of effort it is easy to avoid the crowds; just walk away from the road. As well as camel trekking and sand boarding it is possible to take one of the numerous off-road vehicles that are available to hire with an official driver from the local tourism office. These vehicles are a fast way to travel and are great for families as little legs don’t have to worry about the hot weather. This area is one of the most driest and hottest in the world and the sand dunes can frequently reach over 55°C; the hottest recorded temperature on Planet Earth. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months from March to June and then again from September to December.
Coastal Fun in Essaouira
With hot summer weather and cool coastal breezes, Essaouira is a popular seaside escape for families and backpackers. It’s an affordable coastal town filled with budget lodgings, relaxed restaurants, bakeries, and outdoor cafes. Children run freely among the friendly residents and the wandering tradespeople. It’s a town families feel safe exploring—offering long strolls along the artistic Medina walls, narrow painterly streets, gorgeous views across the Atlantic ocean, and beautiful port filled with colorful fishing boats. Kids will enjoy getting a glimpse of fish being unloaded at the Terre de Port.
A fun-filled excursion can also be made to a small village not too far back from Essaouira, called Timoulay. The village offers camel and horse rides, which go on for about an hour and take you along a delightful sea. There are also more organized excursions to the nearby Mogador Islands. This excursion traverses the oceanic National Park, which houses native flora and fauna, as well as other animals that stop there on their migratory route. Whale watching and other marine activities can be enjoyed in Agadir or Asilah, other coastal towns on the Atlantic Ocean.
A few miles beyond the dunes and palm groves surrounding Essaouira lie a series of exquisite and practically deserted sandy beaches ideal for sunbathing or swimming. Large waves break on the shore attracting dozens of surfers, yet the beaches remain almost empty. Not far from Essaouira are three modern surf schools that can arrange classes for children. Shopping and dining are both exceptional as Essaouira is renowned for its wood-carving artistry, but you’ll also find pottery and traditional Moroccan mosaic work. To this comes the fresh fish, grilled on the beach, and the relaxed ambiance, and it is not hard to understand why Essaouira has become one of Morocco’s must-visit destinations.
Cultural Experiences for Solo Parents and Children
For solo parents and children looking for an immersive experience based on destination and culture in Morocco, the country has a set of amazing activities to offer besides the classical visits to attractions and sites. Whether you would like to learn how to prepare the Moroccan tajine, weave a Berber rug, or make a piece of art reminiscent of the famous works, Morocco is a gem to discover. In this section, we offer suggestions of activities that we hope will bring you as much joy as they have brought us during our stay in Morocco. We also include some suggestions about local festivals that highlight Moroccan culture and its diversity, so you can witness traditional dancing and other events.
Cooking Classes: A Taste of Moroccan Cuisine
The Moroccan tajine is famous all over the world. In a country that prides itself on its hospitality and its food, what best evokes an encounter with Moroccan family life than to learn how to prepare a tajine, couscous, or any other delicious dish that you will savor later with your Moroccan host? It even gets better when it is prepared with ingredients coming straight from the souk nearby, like vegetables, spices, and seasoning. Various cooking classes and workshops are offered in every city and town, including Fez, Marrakech, Essaouira, and Agadir. Other variants are also possible; for example, the Culinary Heritage, Culture and Hospitality program takes place in entire Berber families’ homes and focuses on “the authentic Moroccan cuisine, rich in variety, flavors and spices.” Classes may include cooking lunch, as well as dinner with the family, and preparing a foray featuring Moroccan pastries.
Cooking Classes: A Taste of Moroccan Cuisine
Moroccan cuisine is famous for its unique and diverse mix of flavors and scents. Experiencing not only the Moroccan food and drinks, but also learning how to cook them is something special you’ll want to remember. Cooking classes are a popular activity for Moroccan souks and markets. Pottery shop and bakery visits, and cooking classes are available with some travel companies or through local people often through a hotel.
Cooking classes in Morocco often start by going to the souks to buy the ingredients for the food to be cooked. Cooking classes are offered with the help of a foreign travel company, or you may be lucky enough to meet a local person who is willing and wishing to share their culture. Learn from a local one who is patient and hospitable. Have a local and family-friendly experience that will be one of the highlights of your travels. Learn the secrets of Moroccan cuisine, make your experience hands-on and special with the services of a private chef, and make the traditional local dishes by the families with whom you cook.
Get first-hand experience of the aroma and beauty of Moroccan cuisine. Let our Moroccan chefs prepare delicious meals before your eyes. Relax and enjoy as you take in both the culinary teachings and a chat about Moroccan culture or good times. Then, you can spend a couple of hours making delicious Moroccan dishes for yourself, your family, or your friends. The full preparation uses traditional Moroccan techniques and seasonal ingredients. Food is cooked in the traditional way using tajines, battes and Moroccan spices. Eat your Moroccan meal, served either at a private table or a communal table with the family.
Local Festivals and Events
Morocco has a very festive calendar. The religious events, such as Eid el-Fitr (the end of Ramadan) and Eid el-Adha (the Feast of the Sacrifice) vary every year according to the lunar calendar, and the dates will be posted in our January issue. The other holidays are fixed. Some of these celebrations are very local, devoted to a place or a production, and in theory closed to the dhaklahouh (Moroccan nationals residing abroad). But even if we resist their “intimacy”, they sometimes allow us to attend, provided we have made some useful contacts beforehand. The essence of local events is the use of dhikrs (pious chants) and a reh-heh (small bottle) full of oil and moujhaharat (sayings) put around the neck of the llamas, sheep, and goats that will be sacrificed or that enhance the color of the couscous. It is recommended to keep a small journal of these chants which will delight your Moroccan friends when you return to the country. What could be more pleasant than to attend a celebration of the “purity” or the “lightning of milk” (Laila el-Rouiba or Laila el-Frose) in order to better taste this delicious product of the earth? Other events such as the Cactus Flower festival in Agadir, the Cherry Festival in Sefrou, and the Roses and Lavender Festival in Kelaâ des Mgouna are more accessible and have a different charm. Their organization is well set up, and all the settlers or children of settlers who have returned from France group together in order to set you free for four days from 5 pm to midnight. Bouquets of flowers, exhibitions of fruit and flowers, artisans at work, and visits to the mansion are done at night and daytime visits to the surrounding areas. You just have to choose from the Pastorelles.
Art and Craft Workshops
One of the best ways to learn about any culture is through artisanal practices. Craftwork is still done mostly by hand in Morocco and is perfected throughout childhood. Parents will send their boys off to learn the trade at a young age, as they did with their own fathers, and boys will master their trade and have their own workshop by the time they are 20. Such trades include stone masonry, filigree metalwork, leather tanning and polishing, pottery, glassblowing, wood carving, textile dyeing, henna tattooing, and embroidery. Such painstaking craftsmanship has been carried on for generations and is not only worth seeing but doing. While you can create wire filigree in Chefchaouen, make henna tattoos and embroidered silk nags in Marrakech, and create ceramic tiles in Fez, there is no better place for a workshop than Essaouira.
Essaouira is a laid-back coastal town located two and a half hours away from Marrakech that offers excellent woodwork, particularly in thuya, an aromatic wood particular to the region. The town was once a Portuguese colonial bastion, and Jewish merchants thrived there. This fascinating history, along with its bustling fishing port and lively medina, cannot be captured in a single short visit but requires at least two or three days. Thankfully, Essaouira is easily accessible and often even cheaper to stay in when compared to Marrakech. The workshop in Essaouira has partnered with local artisans who welcome workshop participants into their workshops, enabling them to share their skills and wealth of knowledge, including advice on how to start and run a craft business and preserve traditional techniques. The most popular and flexible half to two-day workshops include ceramics, woodworking, and jewelry, but there are also day classes for tadelakt, Moroccan plastering, and mosaic tile work, as well as henna and painting workshops. Such workshops create the opportunity for enriching cultural exchange, offer a time for reflection in a warm and friendly atmosphere, and are so entertaining that you would never guess you are learning.
Navigating Transportation in Morocco
One of the most intimidating aspects of a trip to Morocco is figuring out how to get around the country. There’s good reason for that; outside of the cities and small tourist areas, transport in Morocco has a reputation for being impractical, uncomfortable, and unreliable. Still, there are a lot of interesting places to see in Morocco beyond the big cities. If you want to get off the beaten path and experience this beautiful country in all its diversity, you’ll need to learn how to navigate transportation in Morocco.
Accommodations: Finding Family-Friendly Places
No matter where in the world you are traveling, choosing the right accommodation is crucial, especially as a solo parent traveling with your (presumably) not-very-mature traveling companions. The wrong hotel or riad could ruin a trip but happily most of the places catering to families are aware that a stay with kids can be both a joy and a trial, and have adequately equipped themselves to help you have a great time. Creches, babysitting services, kids’ clubs, and other services specially designed to give mom a break while ensuring that playtime for the kiddies is something to remember, are offered at many larger hotels in Morocco, particularly those with pools located in the unofficial tourist resorts.
However appealing a large hotel might be, do try to include a few nights’ stay in a riad, an old-style family house that has been converted into a small, friendly hotel. Most riad owners are welcoming and even the most jaded, spoiled kids may be persuaded to spend some time in the quiet, beautifully tiled courtyard, sipping mint tea or lemonade while watching the birds. Also, the milieu is generally quieter than at a hotel, enabling the family to recharge batteries overnight in preparation for another day of exploration. If you are lucky enough to find a riad with kids your child’s age, so much the better. Riads are most suitable as family bases in larger cities and towns. They can be a bit scarce further afield, but if you find one, try to stay at least a night, if just to experience the delightful ambiance of these family houses.
Children and travel do have an awkward relationship at times. Getting to know other kids, both locals and fellow travelers, is the number one most effective way to keep the toddler-boredom factor low. Hotel chains and some of the riads are generally used to families with children of various ages and most will have some amenities to help with family comfort. The bonus is the chance to meet and socialize with other families, both local and visiting, allowing for play-dates which have the added advantage of allowing parents some adult time over drinks!
Hotels vs. Riads
While hotels can often be relied on because of their brand names, voyagers with kids in tow may want to consider staying in a riad, a big house built around a courtyard and converted into a guesthouse. These are most plentiful in Morocco’s medinas and are perfect for families traveling together. They are usually less expensive than similarly rated hotels, and almost all provide meals. A family with older children will probably want at least two rooms—young ones can share with you, considering that most bedrooms have an extra bed or room for one. It’s worth noting that there are more guesthouses for families in the southern half of Morocco than in the north, compared to the number of hotels available.
Staying in a riad is certainly an authentic Moroccan experience, especially tailored for those interested in local life. The various family-run establishments tend to reflect the more informal hospitality available when you find someone willing to open up their home to you. Arriving at a riad often means being greeted with a strong mint tea before you even consider unpacking. Meals are usually prepared with dedication and sorely missed spices, as opposed to the more generic foods. The staff will often offer tips for navigating the narrow medina streets or tangines, in exchange for a nominal fee. While you may not be staying there, keeping your hands in mind will make it feel a little more like home during the next few days.
Airbnb and Vacation Rentals
Airbnb and vacation rentals are commonly used in Morocco. As such, it can be appealing to choose these options for lodging instead of the more traditional accommodations close to the Medina. Oftentimes, they offer more space for a family to spread out and feel at home. However there are a few considerations with Airbnb and vacation rentals in Morocco. The first is that many of the homes for rent exist either in more residential or slightly sketchier neighborhoods. If you are using the service for the first time, it can be unnerving to have no idea of the condition of the area before you arrive. Some rentals will not include breakfast or other services that are regularly included in hotels or riads so be sure to check guest reviews and the listing description to make sure you understand exactly what makes the rental unique, or what amenities it is lacking. Also be wary of cancellations. Airbnb as a company has gotten quite a bit of flak in recent years regarding how few protections renters have, especially if the host owner cancels the reservation last minute. It is much more common for reservations to be canceled in Morocco than in the US, especially if a host has received another inquiry that is “for sure” and is willing to pay much more than you. Negotiating directly with a host can give you the best deal possible if you are staying more than three or four days. However, negotiating instead of using Airbnb can also put you at risk for scams. Take care after using the service for a while to establish if you can trust a host before moving the conversation off platform.
Safety Considerations for Solo Parents
For a lot of parents, the safety of their children is their biggest concern on a trip. A lot of research goes into planning the trip to make sure everything goes according to plan. Regardless of how much is planned out, there can be unexpected happenings in a foreign country. But the beauty and learning experiences a country can provide are well worth the trouble.
The most common form of violent crime in Morocco is against women; particularly for solo female travelers. Murders and rapes are not common. If you are going to be out and about with children, avoid places known for being less safe, like the new part of Tangier. Muggings happen in crowded areas like markets and streets where a foreigner is flashier than most. Use common sense while out. Don’t wear jewelry while out and try to limit how many valuables you leave at your accommodations. If you have to, divide all valuables into different places on you to mitigate the risk of failure. When buying new clothes for the trip, buy colors that are usually used by locals to blend in as best as you can. It doesn’t hurt to look at street view before going to any place known for being bad places and avoid those places (or around them) when you go out.
Be aware for children looking to pickpocket. If pickpocket children are caught, they’ll be punished by the local authorities. It’s also best to avoid showing available money to those on the side of the street, especially children asking for money; this persuades them to approach and beg or rob each individual with money on hand.
Solo Fathers and Solo Mothers: Unique Perspectives
Traveling as a solo parent can be a very interesting experience, but it can also be very isolating. While we are still part of a family, we are often treated a little differently than a “normal” family. While traveling, joining forces can help both families culturally and socially. If you’re a solo mother or solo father planning to travel alone with your children, ask around and explore the possibility for meeting other solo family travelers. By simply asking questions on various forums or reaching out to others you’ve met while traveling, this has worked for us in finding other solo parents to travel with. Consider spending time in hostels or family friendly places, and scout for other solo families to share the fun and costs.
Experiencing the world as a solo female traveler can be a very empowering and unique adventure. However, there are certain cultural aspects that are important to be aware of and understand. Solo female travelers are generally accepted, but there are some cultural limits to be aware of when traveling in Morocco. The question frequently arises: Is it safe to be a solo mother traveler in a Muslim country? The short answer is: Yes! We had traveled through Morocco many times and we have always felt safe and at home, as guest in a guest culture.
Traveling as a solo father with children can create a lot of different situations compared to being a duo with a partner. Most often, we see solo fathers as part of a duo and have lesser experience with them. In the years I spent traveling, I have met a few solo fathers and I enjoy talking to them.
Solo traveling as a single parent family has its contrary points: On the one hand, there is no other adult to support, to share experiences and to help out with everyday situations such as cooking and watching the children. As a solo family, and more particularly as a sole responsible adult, the easiest way to just keep on going when and where the kids need to is present and available. On the other hand, sharing a similar experience can also be very uniting, reinforcing, inspiring, and certainly help breaking the everyday travel routine.
Experiences of Solo Mothers in Morocco
In this section, we showcase stories from solo mothers who visited Morocco with their kids. Some of their experiences may be unique to solo parents, while others may be of more general interest. Although some of these solo mothers are now in relationships, they took these trips as unaccompanied women with children. In fact, solo parenting is sometimes discussed at the intersections of single motherhood and travel with children, according to the experiences of the individuals involved. Morocco is a country that frequently comes up in discussions about gendered travel experiences. Solo mothers first.
While all of the women in our group are solo mothers, their situations are quite different. Some are divorced, others have never been married, one is widowed, and another is in a long-term relationship with their children’s father and prefers to raise their children without having a marriage certificate. The word ‘Sologamie’ is coming up more and more, especially in some Western societies where we set out to enjoy our independence until we’re ready to make a long-term commitment. Those are just labels and in the end, all of them are on their own with the children. It doesn’t matter why any of us are alone because we all understand what the effort and exhaustion, but also the joy, of that situation means. However, there are certain aspects that only solo mothers deal with: the pressure from society to find a man and solve this ‘problem’, nobody to ask for help; understanding how to cope alone, both financially and emotionally; having to make all decisions alone; health issues that can incapacitate you; family milestones that you can’t enjoy as a family.
Experiences of Solo Fathers in Morocco
There are few voices of solo fathers in the travel literature about Morocco. A traveler mentions in passing a few anecdotes when he travels with his son on his bicycle and is invited to eat at the home of a Moroccan family. He explains the sort of comments he receives from men in those families about his son: is he going to be masculine and strong like his father? How will he learn how to use tools, engage in male competitions? How will he learn to fend for himself? In this vein, a scholar narrates the time she spent in Morocco with her son and two daughters related to her work writing and researching a book on Moroccan tapestry art. She shares that her son, at nine years of age, had some difficulty socializing with the local boys, who thought that he was weird not to associate with the men, which they viewed as an intimidating presence. She concludes that “Negative reactions were seldom directed toward my daughters. Only a few people enquired about their existence…didn’t I want my son to go to the café, to play soccer and other boy things, or engage in manly talks? … Certainly not. He was living a unique experience, participating in a fascinating world, united with interesting people, a society that left an indelible mark on him. Most Moroccans were not aware of gender theories. They simply thought he should engage in male bonding.”
Judging by the testimonials collected, the experience of solo fathers is less widely shared than that of solo mothers. This may be due to many reasons, including the number of actual nomadic solo fathers, who travel with their children the same way solo mothers do; or the less visible nature of these fathers when they travel, compared to the mothers who take care of practical matters such as cleaning or preparing meals while the fathers are doing the navigating. Or indeed, this absence of spontaneous testimonials could simply be an analogy to the absence and transvestism of women. Whatever the reason, it is undeniable that while solo mothers still have ways to go before being accepted, solo fathers seem the odd person out.
Building Community with Other Solo Parents
Both solo mothers and solo fathers often feel marginalized, lacking moral support from their peers. This feeling is more pronounced in solo mothers, who prefer to develop friendships with other mothers in similar situations. For both solo parents, sharing experiences related to work, professional ambitions, legal rules surrounding child custody, etc., is more fruitful with other solo parents than with any other category of people, since only other solo parents have lived through the same distress and pain. They are the only ones capable of understanding and sharing the same feelings: the fear of being found out and blamed for failing to respect the traditional familial arrangement, whether it be losing one’s job or becoming ill and losing the right to assume custody.
Support groups allow both solo mothers and fathers to find answers to recurrent questions, and also help each other cope with their daily trials. These associations have proven particularly helpful for those who have suffered a divorce, providing them with the keys and general techniques to successfully reclaim their status. Documents outlining and comparing the divorcing, childcare, and visiting rights are offered to new members who are keen to know how much longer they should expect to wait, or if mediation can keep them from heading to court. Divorcees at the beginning of the process may also ask which lawyer to trust and how to choose the right one. Child therapies are organized for both solo parents and their children so they can avoid the drama of divorce and custody withdrawal sparking a feeling of abandonment in the child, while also explaining the modifications that are to come in such an unsettlingly new stage in their lives.
Challenges Faced by Solo Parents in Morocco
While traveling to Morocco may seem daunting for anyone, solo parents, especially those who are mothers, may find it additionally challenging. These challenges include language barriers, unfamiliarity with cultural norms, and managing stress from independent parenting. While these challenges shouldn’t discourage parents from embarking on a solo trip to Morocco, readers should be aware of these issues so that they can plan accordingly to make their travels smoother.
Language Barriers Moroccans are often multilingual; however, in the touristy regions, especially in the popular cities of Fes, Chefchaouen, and Marrakech, English may not be widely spoken. However, it would benefit any solo parent visiting Morocco to familiarize themselves with key Arabic and French words and phrases. You do not need extensive knowledge of these languages—just the basics: greetings and thank yous will go a long way. For example, saying hello and goodbye in Arabic can go a long way. In Arabic, as-salāmu ʿalaykum is the Arabic greeting, and responds with Walaykumu as-salam. If you want to say goodbye in Arabic, it’s maʿa as-salāmah. Most importantly, the usual Shukran will be useful. Also learn some basic French phrases, and download a translation app on your phone if available. These tools will get you by!
Cultural Differences As with the language barriers, most people traveling to a new destination will experience a different set of cultural norms. Indeed, Morocco has a distinct set of social customs that most of the world is not accustomed to, being rooted in its Islamic traditions. Morocco is generally known to be welcoming to travelers, especially those with children. Children are often praised for simply being children, and the appreciation for children extends to the parents as well. Solo mothers may experience the male gaze, some saying inappropriate comments in French or Arabic, or unwanted attention. It is important to take note of your surroundings and dress conservatively while also being comfortable, especially in the more rural areas of the country. Within rural conditions, visibility plays a major component in establishing trust. The recommendation is to allow a few days of transition time until settling into the surroundings, especially when you are traveling with children.
Language Barriers
Being a solo parent provides opportunities and challenges like any family, but it can be daunting while traveling. Traveling in Morocco can be more troublesome than the usual struggles of parenting while on the road. Tunisia and Algeria were French Colonies, hence the ease of communicating in French. Morocco is often touted as the last bastion of French influence, and while that is an exaggeration, it is true that there are remnants of the past. Most of the hotels, stores, and restaurants in major tourist spots have employees who can speak some English, but many do not. When traveling in the countryside, however, knowing Arabic and/or French is a plus. Even in major cities, Moroccans sometimes talk among themselves in Darija Arabic instead of French or English, and parents traveling with kids may want to make sure they don’t miss out on something kids are saying if they are speaking in Darija. Tour guides should all be fluent in English, as English is a tourist market language. Moroccan Arabic is typically not a written language, but how someone learns to read English language signs helps determine how they speak Arabic and French: Moroccan kids go to school and start with MSA (Modern Standard Arabic), which everyone learns for writing and reading but is not spoken. This is a more formal Arabic. Kids also learn French in school right away – usually French is the first foreign language taught. So kids become comfortable with reading and writing French before they start learning Arabic letter sounds in 1st grade. Later on they learn how to speak in the way everyone else around them speaks, which is an informal Moroccan Arabic. Standard English signs are also sometimes read letter by letter, or sometimes interpreted as what words sound like in French.
Cultural Differences
The differences in cultural practices and social beliefs between the West and North Africa become apparent very quickly when traveling with children. These differences can cause confusion, stress, or misunderstandings, but generally it is best to try to amalgamate the differences rather than view them as advantages or disadvantages. Traveling with children, especially more than one, may indeed amplify this cultural gulf, but on the plus side, it also helps to cope with culture shock more easily and can help one make friends faster. More often than not, Moroccans consider other cultures ‘strange’ because of certain social behavior differences. For example, while it seems quite normal in the West for a couple to touch other people or even hug them when saying goodbye or welcoming them, such a display of intimacy does not really translate in Morocco — although a handshake is acceptable for men, touching between men and women is generally to be avoided.
As children are widely considered a blessing from God in Islam, people usually shower solo parents with attention. Children, especially the younger ones, may eat a lot of candy that is offered to them and because children are taken to visit in Morocco, their tummy may encounter some ‘foreign objects’ which don’t happen to be in the habit nor the education of solo parents. Additionally, the children will make sure that their Moroccan cousins or friends are as comfortable as possible when they visit.
Managing Solo Parenting Stress
This final challenge—managing stress and loneliness—deserves extra space and consideration—not because it’s unique to solo travel, but because most of the recommendations provided in the previous chapters focus on building our coping skills. And when travel self-reliance meets the already heavy burden of single parenthood, coping can become a significant burden in itself. Parenting solo is taxing. Especially when combined with all the extra demands of travel—planning, carrying luggage, securing transport, navigating language barriers, sourcing food, finding sleeping arrangements, budgeting, settling in, and otherwise guiding our kids along this whirlwind of activity. Travel heightens all of the problems of self-care already made more difficult by solo parenting. In Morocco, the difficulties can feel exacerbated. And even prevented: maybe instead of brunching or coffee or after-school pick-up with friends, you are trying to comply with a toddler’s cookie demands or quell a meal-time tantrum. You don’t need to feel guilty if prioritizing periods of down-time, alone time, or childfree time will help you recharge, balance your stress and frustration, and thereby cope better.
In Morocco, trying to adhere to your kids’ needs even when the pressure’s on to comply with cultural expectations is increased stress that needs combing. If you’re curious about the minimally-child-friendly itineraries of your travel companions, don’t let them press you into such strenuous activity! Ask them if they would like to drop off at your hotel, and rejoin them for dinner? Or ask them to make your hotel the de facto rest stop for groups active with small kids, who might want to pause between adventures? Be bold! Just expect everyone to be surprised that such accommodations are necessary!
Conclusion
Exploring Morocco as a solo parent offers a unique and personal insight into solo parenting in Morocco. It does not hold up Morocco as an ideal solo parent destination. For one, parents need to check with their country’s Foreign Office about the safety of going to Morocco or any area in Morocco, at the time they are traveling. For another, all parents – but notably those traveling with small children – need to be prepared for the challenges and difficulties of travel. Having said that, travel opens the door to meeting and learning from people, and for those who decide to travel to Morocco, they will find a welcoming destination. And certainly, as a solo parent who has traveled to Morocco numerous times with her son, and explored much of the country, much of my experience and advice comes from a personal perspective.
Traveling as a single parent can be hard, and there can be challenges. But being a solo or single parent is a journey in itself. Traveling offers parents and children the opportunity to make memories together, to bond and cement their relationship. More than at home, travel allows family time apart from the daily work and school routines, the distractions of household chores, suppers, and the sometimes endless demands of family life. Travel can create a trusted close time with our child that strengthens their bond and brings a deeper level of trust and confidence. Even with its demands, travel is a unique experience to be shared, one that gives you both the gift of experiencing and learning together. As I often tell people, my happiest family memories are the moments we traveled with my son.
