Moroccans as a whole greatly respect the contributions and wisdom of society's elders, but unfortunately that consideration doesn't necessarily translate into automatic deferential treatment of senior tourists. While senior travelers on an organized tour will be treated with respect and patience, traveling by public transport produces very little of either when it comes to finding a seat. There are no special discounts offered to senior travelers in Morocco, apart from fare reductions offered by some ferry companies plying the route to/from Spain.
Seniors should also pay particular attention to the daytime temperatures during summertime.
Members of AARP, 601 E St. NW, Washington, DC 20049 (tel. 888/687-2277; www.aarp.org), get discounts on hotels, airfares, and car rentals. AARP offers members a wide range of benefits, including AARP The Magazine and a monthly newsletter. Anyone over 50 can join.
Many reliable agencies and organizations target the 50-plus market. Elderhostel (tel. 800/454-5768; www.elderhostel.org) arranges worldwide study programs for those aged 55 and over, including an escorted tour to Morocco. ElderTreks (tel. 800/741-7956 or 416/558-5000 outside North America; www.eldertreks.com) offers small-group tours to off-the-beaten-path or adventure-travel locations, including Morocco, restricted to travelers 50 and older.
Recommended publications offering travel resources and discounts for seniors include the quarterly magazine Travel 50 & Beyond (www.travel50andbeyond.com) and the best-selling paperback Unbelievably Good Deals and Great Adventures That You Absolutely Can't Get Unless You're Over 50 2005-2006 (McGraw-Hill), by Joann Rattner Heilman.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
