Morocco is a prime tourist hotspot during the summer months, for its beautiful medinas, religious buildings and array of gem-filled souks. Around 700,000 Britons head to the muslim country, in north Africa, every year. The UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has “reviewed in full and re-issued” its advice for travel ahead of the summer holiday rush, particularly flagging crime, “incidents involving the use of knifes”, and warnings around henna tattoos. It was eager to stress while most UK travellers’ trips to Morocco go without incident, they should take note of the advice.
This is particularly relevant to an increasing number of Britons, after Express.co.uk reported how they were shunning Europe, and the weak pound to euro exchange rate, amid current Brexit chaos.
The FCO’s updated advice now states refreshed advice, with the section on violent crime now stating: “There have been incidents involving the use of knives against tourists in street attacks, thefts and burglaries in the major cities and along beaches, where you should avoid quiet areas and be vigilant at all times, particularly after dark.
“Don’t carry large amounts of money or valuables around with you.
“Petty crime is common, especially in tourist areas like the medina quarter of towns/cities and on beaches.
“Crimes include pick-pocketing, bag snatching and drive-by motorcycle theft of visible jewellery and handbags.
“Be vigilant when asking for directions and using ATMs as crime and aggressive begging can occur.
“Credit card fraud and scams like substituting inferior goods for those that were actually bought are common. You should remain vigilant and alert to potential confidence tricks.”
Meanwhile it offered particular advice for those visiting medina areas – or the old part of a town or city.
It added: “Make sure any guide you use is operating with the agreement of the local tourist authorities, and displays an official badge.
“Harassment of tourists by people posing as official tourist guides is common.
