Morocco is a beautiful country with a rich culture and history that attracts tourists from all over the world. However, with the rise in tourism, there has also been an increase in scams and locals hassling tourists in the medinas.

The medinas, or old city centers, are a popular attraction for tourists. They are filled with traditional markets, or souks, selling everything from spices to leather goods to carpets. However, the medinas can also be overwhelming and confusing, and tourists are often targeted by scammers and hustlers.

One common scam in the medinas is the “friendly local” who offers to show you around or help you find your way. They may even offer to take you to a special shop or restaurant. However, once you arrive at the shop or restaurant, you may find that the prices are much higher than they should be, and the local who brought you there may expect a commission for bringing you as a customer.

Another common scam is the “fake guide” who approaches tourists and offers to show them around the medina. These fake guides may even wear fake badges or carry laminated cards that make them look official. Once they have your trust, they may take you to shops and restaurants where they receive a commission, or they may demand a large fee for their services at the end of the day.

In addition to scams, tourists in the medinas may also experience hassling from locals. This can take the form of persistent offers to buy goods or services, such as henna tattoos or camel rides. Some vendors may even become aggressive or follow you down the street, making it difficult to enjoy your visit.

It’s important to note that not all locals in the medinas are out to scam or hassle tourists. Many are genuinely friendly and welcoming, and are happy to share their culture and traditions with visitors. However, it can be difficult to tell the difference between the friendly locals and the scammers and hustlers.

To avoid falling victim to scams or being hassled in the medinas, there are a few things you can do. First, be wary of anyone who approaches you offering to help or guide you. If you do need assistance, ask someone who works in a shop or restaurant for recommendations.

It’s also a good idea to research the prices of goods and services before you visit the medina, so you have an idea of what is reasonable to pay. If you’re not comfortable bargaining, it’s okay to politely decline offers to buy goods or services.

Another way to avoid scams and hassle in the medinas is to join a guided tour. A reputable tour company will provide a knowledgeable guide who can show you around the medina and help you avoid the scams and hustlers.

In conclusion, while Morocco’s medinas can be a wonderful and unique experience for tourists, they can also be overwhelming and intimidating. Scams and locals hassling tourists are unfortunately common, but with a little caution and preparation, you can avoid falling victim to these scams and enjoy your visit to Morocco.