Homestays: An Authentic Moroccan Experience!

One can choose from several different options for lodging when traveling in Morocco. Hotels and riads are abundant and usually range from three to five stars. Hostels are popular with backpackers and are typically utilized by those just passing through.  Another alternative is to take part in a homestay.
This opportunity provides a unique look into the everyday life of a local Moroccan.
Many people are dissuaded from participating in a homestay because of general fears and unanswered questions. From personal experience, I can say that there is truly no better way to grasp the Moroccan culture. Living amongst a family in the midst of the medina of Fez, one gains a perspective of life through a Moroccan’s eyes that is simply unobtainable when staying at a riad or a hotel.
 Homestay experiences are arranged either through a travel agency or a homestay business. 
The family dynamics of these homes can range anywhere from a single woman to a young family with children to an older couple with children no longer living in the home.  They are chosen with care to ensure a pleasant stay as well as travelers’ safety.
Whether you’re single or a family of 6, there is a homestay for you!  Gender and/or family size largely determines how travelers are paired with homestay families in order to give you the best experience possible.  When welcoming a foreigner into their home, homestay families will often simply adopt them as one of their own, which makes the experience so much more authentic.  It is recommended to spend at least two nights in a homestay so that you can participate in a full day’s activities as a part of a Moroccan family.
Each homestay family is flexible and will do their best to accommodate you comfortably. Most homes will have a private room for you to sleep, and can contain a shower and a western toilet if you would prefer.  Food preferences (vegetarian, vegan, etc.) can be taken into account as well.  If there are certain things you want to do while in the homestay (go to the hammam, help cook in the kitchen, or take a walk through the souq), simply let your family know and they will make it happen!
 Before traveling, it is a good idea for you to learn a few helpful phrases in Arabic. This will not only improve your homestay experience, but will also enhance your entire trip.  In most homestay settings, there is usually at least one person who can speak a small amount of English, but most communication will be in either French or Arabic.  This often makes communication a fun game of laughter and sign language! 
If you’re looking for a genuine interaction with the Moroccan culture, explore the homestay option! Not only will you save money, you’ll also have the opportunity to absorb the culture, eat authentic Moroccan food, learn more of another language, and see the country through the eyes of the locals. It is an experience unmatched by any other!