Here are some answers to commonly asked questions about travelling to Marrakesh, Morocco.

You can also watch a recording of the MICCAI Student Board panel discussion, which covers many things you need to know about MICCAI 2024! This includes information from the MSB Local Student Liaison, Yanis Miraoui, with advice on travel essentials for the conference. You can rewatch this webinar, along with all of the MSB’s previous instalments, on the  MSB YouTube channel.

More information about visiting Marrakesh and Morocco is also available on the conference website as well as here:  https://visitmarrakech.com/en/planning/

FAQs:

Q: Is Marrakesh safe for tourists and conference attendees?

A: Yes. Morocco is a low-risk country and Marrakesh is a major tourist destination accustomed to hosting international visitors.  As with most tourist destinations, it is recommended that if you plan to go out at night you travel with a group, especially for women. Be vigilant and aware of your environment, especially in crowded places like Jemaa el-Fnaa Market Square. Keep an eye on your belongings to prevent theft.

Q: What is the official language spoken in Marrakesh?

A: Morocco’s two official languages are Moroccan Arabic and Berber, but French is widely spoken as well. English and Spanish are increasingly understood in tourist areas and international settings. 

Q: What is the currency used in Morocco?

A: The Moroccan Dirham (DAM) is the official currency.

Q: How can attendees exchange currency?

A: You cannot purchase Dirham’s outside of the country. Currency can be exchanged at the airport, local banks, and authorized exchange offices. Rates are regulated and consistent. Many small vendors in the market only take cash. Please find below an image of the exchange booth in the Marrakesh airport. The signage is in both English and Arabic. It is always a good idea to notify your bank and credit card companies about your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage abroad. 

Q: What are the emergency phone numbers to call in Marrakesh?

A: In Marrakesh, as in the rest of Morocco, the general emergency phone number is 19 for police assistance; 15 for medical emergencies, and 19 for fire emergencies.

Q: How do I reach the Palmeraie Conference Centre from Marrakesh Menara Airport?
A:  There are four ways to get from Marrakesh Airport to the Palmeraie Conference Centre – by bus, taxi, car, or shuttle. The best way to get from Marrakech Airport (RAK) to Palmeraie village, Marrakech without a car is to take line 19 Airport Shuttle Bus and taxi which takes 25 minutes.

There is an official taxi booth inside the airport. They can reserve a taxi here for you and payment can be made in advance to avoid negotiating with the taxi driver.

  Also, the fastest is by Private Transfer which will take approximately 15 minutes.

Q: What is the address of the Palmeraie Conference Centre?

A: Palmeraie Conference Centre
    Route des Jardins de la Palmeraie
    BP 1488 40000 Marrakesh

Q: What accommodation options are available near the conference?

A: Marrakesh offers a wide variety of accommodations, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury riads and international chains. There are many options available near the Palmeraie Conference Centre. Visit the conference website to find our recommended hotels:https://conferences.miccai.org/2024/en/RECOMMENDED-HOTELS.html

Note – if you stay in a Riad in the Medina, Old Town it is best to book a shuttle from the airport with the Riad directly, as some of the streets are too narrow for taxis to get down. Our Riad shuttle stopped about 4 streets away from our Riad and walked us the rest of the way.

Q: Is reliable internet connectivity available?

A: Yes, most hotels and many cafes offer free and reliable Wi-Fi. Consider purchasing a SIM card for mobile data. Sim cards can be bought at the airport (e.g. Maroc Telecom). Our team has used the Airalo e-SIM card, and it has worked very well. There are many other options for e-SIM cards that you can purchase before you travel.

Q: What kind of power plugs are used?

A: Morrocco uses Type C and Type E power plugs, with a standard voltage of 220V and frequency of 50Hz.

Q: Will special dietary requirements be catered to at the conference?

A: Yes, the conference will provide options for vegetarians, vegans, gluten-free and other dietary needs. Dekon our PCO typically has a buffet for lunches so there will be many choices to meet your needs.

Q: Is the water safe to drink?

A: It is recommended that you drink bottled water and avoid using tap water for drinking or brushing your teeth.

Q: What is the dress code in Marrakesh?

A: While Marrakesh is quite liberal, it is recommended that you dress modestly. Both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees when in public.

Q: Is there local etiquette and customs that I should be aware of?

A: It’s polite to ask for permission before taking photographs of people. Avoid public displays of affection and respect religious customs.

Q: Will guided tours or cultural events be organized for conference attendees?

A: The Welcome Reception, as well as the Gala Dinner. will feature local music and cuisine. The MICCAI Student Board has organized a variety of events. Registration is limited so learn more here: https://miccai-sb.github.io/events.

Guests of registered delegates can also join the Daytime Guest Program (limited availability) More information is available here: https://miccai.org/index.php/events/upcoming-conferences/daytime-guest-program-at-miccai-2024/

Have a wonderful conference and enjoy the vibrant city of Marrakesh.