What to consider, when visiting the “Blue Pearl” of Morocco…
Do go early: The blue city, is best shot during the day. It is a long drive to get here, but that does not slow people down from visiting. It can get pretty crowded around noon. Have the place to yourself before the shop owners start moving.
Do shop: I had the best shopping experience in the blue city. I got my favorite pair of harem pants here for $5, and picked up a full sized umbrella for $5.
Do bring an umbrella: It is guaranteed to rain, or mist at some point during the day, because of the city’s position in the mountains. We started out good, then had a downpour for about 45 minutes. We took that time to stop and have a bite to eat.
Do be respectful of the doors in the alleyway: The blue city is not just a city set up for show. People live here within the walls of the old town with their families. I almost fell into someone’s home while leaning on the door to take my photo.
Don’t be loud: Remember, this is a residential neighborhood.
Do eat tangine: We had the cheapest, and one of the best meals in the blue city! My husband and I both ate full meals, with drinks and tip for $10 total.
Don’t expect for your photos to be vibrant without editing: The blue city is beautiful. Don’t get me wrong, but the colors on the walls are not as vibrant as they appear in photos. Just add saturation to your edits.
Do take the local currency and have change: The exchange rate is 10 to 1 there, but it just makes it easier when negotiating and paying for your items.
Do price hagle and offer 50% of asking price.
Do have a game plan if visiting without a certified guide: If your guide is not certified from a tourism company, they can not accompany you into the blue city. They will drop you off at the entrance and come back to pick you up.
Don’t plan to spend more that a few hours there: Other than shopping, eating and taking photos, there is not much else to do.
Do take a few outfits there to change up your look in your photos.
Be safe and enjoy!
XO- Alisha
