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Social & Cultural

The unwritten rules — what's expected, what's rude, what's illegal, and what's just different.

Is it rude to refuse tea?Tea is a social contract.What should I wear?Shoulders and knees covered.Can I photograph people?Ask first.Can you show affection in public?Kissing or heavy physical contact is culturally out of place and legally punishable.Is Morocco safe for LGBTQ+ visitors?Same-sex sexual activity is illegal under Article 489 — 6 months to 3 years.Should you remove shoes?In homes, riad living areas, and mosques — yes.Why does time work differently here?Two systems running at once.Why does everyone want cash?Card acceptance is patchy.How does bargaining work?Expected in souks, not everywhere.Why does everyone ask where I'm from?Conversational opener, not interrogation.Why do people stare?Curiosity, not hostility.

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MethodologyDerb is an independent urban reference. Content is based on direct observation, local residents, and research into how Morocco's cities actually work. Cockroaches, plumbing, heat, cats, and everything else.

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