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MORE FAQs  DO I NEED EXPERIENCE IN ART TO ATTEND? “I’m not an artist, that’s not for me,” because there is one thing I know with absolute certainty: we all come into this world with the instinct to create and we are all artists by nature. An art retreat is for everyone because it’s not about creating beautiful art (though you’ll do that, too!) but about exploring our creativity and breaking down the disconnect between our desire to create and taking action. For the most part, the things that hold us back from creating are things like fear of failure, imposter syndrome, guilt, shame, trauma, and simply not trusting our creative vision. Learning to conquer self-doubt will help you with art but, more importantly, it will ripple through every aspect of your life so that you feel happier, confident, self-assured, and inspired to accomplish whatever it is your heart is set on!  CAN I MAKE MY PAYMENTS IN INSTALMENTS? Yes absolutely. Your deposit of $1500.00 is due upon registration. You can then divide the balance of your retreat into two payments. IS MARRAKECH SAFE FOR TOURISTS? Marrakech is an excellent destination for tourists. Your retreat facilitator Stephanie Danforth, has travelled Morroco extensively. She has taking groups of women to the Marrakech for over a decade.  It’s renowned for its historical sites, bustling markets, unique cuisine, and vibrant culture, offering visitors a unique and immersive travel experience. Like any other country or city, it is important to be aware of your surroundings.  PHOTOGRAPHY IN MARRAKECH The sights and colors of Marrakech can be irresistible to photographers but before you start snapping away nonstop be aware that many people in Marrakech are not open to having their picture, or pictures of their products, taken. In fact, I saw several signs in the souks requesting no photography. The main thing is to ask permission to take pictures and be respectful if the answer is no. BE PREPARED TO HAGGLE Haggling is an essential part of the shopping experience in Morocco. Don’t be afraid to walk away if the vendor does not agree to a final price you are comfortable with. JAMMA EL FNA When night falls Marrakech’s main square comes alive in what’s some call the greatest show on Earth. One of North Africa’s oldest and busiest market squares it is home to a dizzying array of dancers, magicians and storytellers vying for your attention (and dirham) as well as food vendors hawking a variety of Moroccan specialties. RELIGION Islam is the official state religion of Morocco, you will hear the call to prayer ring throughout the city 5 times per days and in general non-Muslims are not allowed inside mosques. Friday is the Muslim day of prayer and you may find some businesses and restaurants closed. MINT TEA IN MOROCCO Whether served as a sign of welcome, sipped during a business transaction or enjoyed as a way to unwind in the afternoon mint tea is central to life in Marrakech. A blend of green tea and fresh mint it is traditionally served very sweet. WHAT IS THE CURRENCY IN MOROCCO? The Moroccan currency is the Dirham. There are plenty of ATMs all over the city. DO I NEED A VISA TO TRAVEL TO MARRAKECH? Good news if you are planning for exotic last minute holidays. You do not need a VISA for our proposed duration of your stay in Morocco. No additional period of validity beyond this is required. WHAT TEMPERATURES CAN I EXPECT WHEN I AM GOING TO MARRAKECH? For the month of November the average temperatures are 23 degrees/11 degrees. Check the weather prior to departure to confirm. CAN I USE MY MOBILE PHONE IN MARRAKECH? Morocco has an excellent modern mobile phone infrastructure which also supports 4G and data roaming. However it is advisable to check charges with your mobile provider before using your phone extensively to avoid unpleasant surprises. HOW DO I GET AROUND THE MEDINA? A very good way to explore the Marrakech old town (Medina) is on foot. Most of the streets are teeming with life; pedestrians, cyclists, donkeys and carts, motorbikes with a few cars and delivery vehicles on the larger thoroughfares. In general pedestrians keep to the right and wheeled vehicles whiz up and down the middle- consequently it is not a good idea to walk slowly down the middle of the street looking down at a map! We suggest google maps or citymapper. WHAT IS THE DRESS CODE IN MOROCCO? Morocco is an Islamic country which welcomes tourists who are sensitive to local tradition. Shorts and short sleeve tops are fine as long as they are not too revealing. It is not sensible for women to wear clothes that reveal too much cleavage. Comfortable shoes – there is plenty of walking to be done in Marrakech, so its recommend a few pairs of comfy shoes. The streets in Marrakech are not the smoothest to walk along, so keep this in mind when packing A secure shoulder bag – you really need to be careful of pickpockets – particularly in crowded tourist hotspots –  a crossbody bag for storing my valuables which was super helpful. Make sure it can zip, and internal pockets. IS MARRAKECH AN EXPENSIVE CITY? Compared to many Western cities, Marrakech is generally more affordable. However, prices can vary widely depending on the area, type of establishment, and the level of luxury you opt for. WHAT LANGUAGE TO THEY SPEAK? In Marrakech, the primary languages spoken are Moroccan Arabic (Darija) and Tamazight (Berber). However, due to tourism, French and English are also commonly spoken in many areas. IS THERE ALCOHOL IN MOROCCO? Yes, alcohol is available in Marrakech, primarily in hotels, bars, and some restaurants. However, public consumption is frowned upon due to the predominance of Islam, the state religion. Morocco offers a variety of traditional alcoholic drinks that are popular among locals and visitors. Here are some typical Moroccan alcoholic beverages: Moroccan Wine: Morocco has a flourishing wine industry, producing a range of red, white, and rosé wines. The country is known for its vineyards in regions like Meknes, Casablanca, and the Atlas Mountains. Mint Tea with a Twist: While not a traditional alcoholic drink, a popular Moroccan twist involves adding a splash of spirits like vodka, rum, or whiskey to the traditional mint tea, creating a refreshing and unique cocktail. Casablanca Beer: Casablanca Beer is one of Morocco’s most well-known beer brands. It is a light and refreshing lager that is commonly enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. Mahia: Mahia is a traditional Moroccan spirit made from figs or dates. It has a distinct flavor and is often consumed as a digestive after meals or during special occasions. Moroccan Cocktails: Moroccan mixologists have developed unique cocktails inspired by local flavors and ingredients. These can include combinations of fresh fruits, spices, and herbs, resulting in refreshing and flavorful drinks. IS IT SAFE TO WALK AROUND ALONE AT NIGHT? The Medina of Marrakech is probably safer than a European City. There is a specialist Tourist Brigade police force whose duty it is to protect foreign visitors. IS THE TAP WATER SAFE TO DRINK? Bottled water is recommended and can be purchased from many kiosks and stalls around the Medina. FOOD IN MARRAKECH? The food is a feast for all the senses. The souks are lined with rows of sweet oranges, plump dates and countless varieties of olives while the air is heavy with the scent of intensely fragrant spices from the spice market.  Gently spiced shakshuka (eggs cooked in a gently spiced tomato sauce) and spongy Moroccan pancakes are a must for breakfast. You can’t leave Marrakech without  having a tagine; a stew, usually with chicken, lamb, beef or vegetables cooked and served in a clay pot of the same name. Eating is one of the best ways to experience Marrakech. Some favorites were sfenj ( a fried doughnut drizzled with intensely floral honey), msemen (fried bread either served plain or stuffed with spices, meat or cheese),  and tanjia (succulent lamb slow roasted in clay pots for hours in underground ovens). ​WHAT IS THE CONVENTION REGARDING TIPPING? Tipping is a part of every-day life in Morocco. We are often asked for guidelines about gratuities.  These suggestions are based on our experience of general practice here in Marrakech. Cafes: It is polite to leave two or three dirhams if you are having a coffee or soft drink. Restaurants: 5-10% is considered appropriate or generous. Your facilitators will look after other gratuities. ARE THERE PHARMACIES IN MARRAKECH, MOROCCO? There are a number of excellent pharmacies in Marrakech both in the Medina and in the new town of Guiliez. Common medication and toiletries are readily available including many leading western brands. Moroccan pharmacists can prescribe and immediately supply some medications, for example antibiotics. WHAT IS THE ELECTRICAL VOLTAGE IN MARRAKECH, WHAT TYPE OF PLUGS DO THEY HAVE? The voltage is 210 and they use a standard European two round pin plug? IS MARRAKECH AN ISLAMIC CITY? Yes, Marrakech is an Islamic city. As one of the major cities in Morocco, it holds deep Islamic traditions and influences. The majority of the population in Marrakesh practices Islam, and the city is home to many beautiful mosques, such as the famous Koutoubia Mosque. Islamic customs and traditions are prevalent throughout the city, adding to its rich cultural heritage and religious significance. DOES MARRAKECH HAVE AN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT? Yes, Marrakech has an international airport. Marrakech airport called Marrakech menara airport serves as the main airport for the city, offering both domestic and international flights. It provides convenient access for travelers from various parts of the world, connecting Marrakesh to numerous destinations globally.