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| | Need to Know | Capital City Rabat | | Tipping 10-15% | | Electricity 220V | | Weights and Measurements Metric system |
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Economy
Once a flourishing hub of the profitable trans-Saharan trade, Morocco underwent a long period of economic decline while Europe became industrialised. From the 15th century onwards, a series of European powers increased their meddling in the Moroccan economy and contributed generously to its further decline.
Since independence, there have been efforts to repair this situation, but economic policy remains in the hands of the monarch and there have been indications that it has not been in tune with the people’s needs, as shown by the alarmingly high rate of unemployment. To add to the unhappy state of affairs, the IMF-imposed austerity programme has increased the hardship of the average Moroccan in the past decade. All is not gloomy though – King Hassan II made some strategic efforts to increase trade and other ties with the EU and the Maghreb – this was definitely be a shot-in-the-arm for the Moroccan economy.
Tourism remains the country’s second-largest hard currency earner, so go to Morocco and spend your money with a smile in your heart!
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Currency
The Moroccan currency is the dirham (Dr), which is equal to 100 centimes. Travelers are not allowed to import or export local currency.
Costs vary widely, depending on your preferred level of luxury. It is possible to travel quite cheaply in Morocco, since one can save on costs of food by eating at local eateries and getting around by renting cycles or taking buses.
Banking hours are generally from 8.30 to 11.30 am and from 2.30 to 4.30 pm Monday to Friday. The midday break on Fridays tends to be longer than usual. ATMs are becoming more widespread, but there may be a limit of MAD 1000. Most banks will issue cash advances against major credit cards.
Money can be changed at any of the major banks, and in some banks, no commission is charged for changing travelers’ cheques. Some others have weekend opening hours too.
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Business Guide
Business hours are generally from 9 am to 5 pm from Monday to Friday, although the working day may be shorter on Fridays. In business environment and otherwise too, modesty in dress and behavior is the rule – this holds especially true for women, who are urged to cover their shoulders and wear long skirts or trousers.
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 | Where in the world are you going to travel to in the year 2011? Below is a list of the ... | | | | | |
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Travel Tools
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