Passport:
Make a copy (keep separate from passport) and memorize your number, date, and place of issue in case of loss. Leave a copy of your passport (picture page) with your parents/guardians in the U.S.
Get a special travel pack (money belt, neck pouch) for valuables including your passport. It is very convenient for flights in/out of the country.
Money:
Spending money is up to the individual. Keep in mind most products are cheaper in Morocco than the United States and we will be BARGAINING – it is part of the culture! In Spain, prices are similar if not greater than in the U.S.
Morocco: the local currency is the Dirham (MAD),
Spain: the local currency is the Euro (EUR)
1.00 Dollar = 10.92 MAD
1.00 Dollar = 0.94 EUR
US Dollars and Euros are the most cost-effective to exchange. ATM cards will work. Debit-type cards will work also (have your parents contact the issuing bank and let them know to allow you to use the card in Morocco and Spain).
Cash is the most convenient method to use.
Study Materials:
Bring all materials you received during the study tour seminars, especially the packet about the research project.
Clothing:
All travelers to Morocco and Spain dress comfortably for autumn like weather, but also be prepared with a light jacket/sweater for colder temperatures indoors and at night. While Morocco is welcoming to tourists, a person must be mindful and respectful of conservative dressing norms. Sleeveless shirts, tank tops, and skirts/shorts above the knee are not appropriate for daily wear.
For touring: Comfortable slacks, t-shirts – NO tank/spaghetti strapped tops, midriff tops or low-rise pants/jeans.
Mid weight jacket (it gets a little cool at night in Morocco and Spain).
Sweater or sweatshirt.
Long-sleeved t-shirts or shirts.
Extra underwear, socks and maybe 1 Pajamas.
Footwear:
Sneaker or Hiking Shoes: No sandals or open toe shoes
House slippers for hotels.
Footwear:
A single piece of checked-in baggage must not weigh more than 32kg (70lb) or exceed 158cm (62in) in length + width + height.
One carry-on bag (a small-medium sized backpack is recommended) which can also be used for touring.
Toiletries - pack liquid items in a quart size Ziploc bags to prevent leaks; TSA does not allow any liquid materials exceeding 3 ounces on any flight. You can put all the big items i.e. shampoo, body wash, etc. in your checked in bag.
Extra Ziploc bags are a good idea to keep your luggage contents organized and give you more space for new purchases.
Small flashlight (for emergencies).
Wet wipes
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Hair brush
Nail clipper
Digital camera with storage disks/memory sticks and charger.
Handy-wipes and tissues for use in public restrooms. You may wish to bring a small hand sanitizer or anti-bacterial hand cleaner.
Book(s) to read.
Wipes for personal use.
Toothbrush, floss and toothpaste. (Also, remember to bring a small toothpaste/toothbrush for the flights).
Body wash, sponge, lotion, shampoo and conditioner.
Plug adaptor to convert 220 volts to 110 volts (Amazon - AAA)
Journal for keeping notes and observations – a must
Food and Water:
Drink plenty of fluids, especially while we are touring (bottled water is recommended).
Do not buy food on the streets. Exceptions are food that you see being cooked and served hot on clean or disposable plates and commercially packaged foods. Morocco and Spain food is generally safe, but the change of atmosphere and eating habits might get your stomach upset.
Do not eat unwashed raw or unpeeled vegetables or fruits.
Electricity :
This is just the plug, you can use it with phones, and computers because they are flexible between 110 and 220 volts, but some other electronics will need an actual converter, which is slightly more expensive.
(Read the instruction of your devices before buying a converter).
Communication:
Internet and phone services are widely available. Your parents SHOULD contact their phone carrier before leaving so they can set up your phone to work in those two countries. Just remember that it will be very costly by the minute.
Safety:
Morocco and Spain are very safe countries. The crime rate is low and incidents of violence are rare. To discourage petty theft, travelers should take basic precautions: do not leave money or valuables unattended, while in public.
Tip for Staying Healthy on the Trip:
Drink plenty of water. Bottled water is safer than tap water. You should make sure to drink water throughout the day to prevent dehydration, particularly when engaging in outdoor activities.
Use sunblock and sunglasses for protection during the day if needed.
If you take medication, make sure to carry all medication in its original packaging. You may also want to pack a copy of your prescription or a note from your doctor explaining the purpose of the medication.
Insurance:
The city of Norwalk provides limited travel insurance, but check with your insurance company to ensure you have complete coverage.
Vaccination:
There are no vaccination requirements to travel to Morocco or Spain.
The CDC recommends the following vaccinations for travel to Morocco and Spain, but please check with your child's doctor to make the best decision for them:
Routine vaccines
COVID-19
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis B
Measles
Rabies
Typhoid (Morocco only)