Scam in MoroccoFood and drink
Orange juice price switch in Morocco
How it works
A seller charges more after you drink. Different prices for ordinary and blood orange juice can also be used to create confusion.
Warning signs
- The type of juice and price are not confirmed.
- The seller wants you to drink before settling the price.
How to avoid it
- Confirm the juice type and full price.
- Pay the agreed amount before accepting and drinking it.
If it happens to you
State the price agreed before drinking and seek help if the dispute becomes threatening.
- Get to a safe, busy place. Do not chase a thief or physically resist a robbery.
- If you are hurt or suspect drugging, seek medical help immediately.
- Freeze missing cards and contact your card issuer about unauthorised payments. Lock a stolen phone remotely if possible.
- Save receipts, booking messages and payment records. Write down what happened, where and when.
- Report theft, threats or fraud to police. Ask for a report or reference number for your insurer.
- Contact your insurer, booking provider or embassy as needed. Use the evidence you saved when requesting help or a refund.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Redditr/solotravel2019I loved Marrakech but i won't come back againA traveller reports being charged 10 dirhams for juice advertised at four because the seller claimed the only available cup was a larger size.Read on Reddit
- TripadvisorMarrakech Forum2020Fresh juices in the Medina square - ripoff - Marrakech ForumForum participants describe concealed juice prices and extra charges for disposable cups supplied without asking.Read on Tripadvisor
Questions
What is the orange juice price switch scam in Morocco?
A seller charges more after you drink. Different prices for ordinary and blood orange juice can also be used to create confusion.
How can I spot it early?
The type of juice and price are not confirmed. The seller wants you to drink before settling the price.
How do I avoid orange juice price switch in Morocco?
Confirm the juice type and full price. Pay the agreed amount before accepting and drinking it.
What should I do if it happens to me?
State the price agreed before drinking and seek help if the dispute becomes threatening.
Where in Morocco does this happen?
Street juice stalls It has been reported in Marrakech.
How much can it cost me?
A 4-dirham glass may be billed at 10 dirham. Blood orange juice is described as costing 10 dirham.
How common is this scam in Morocco?
Occasional. Morocco is generally safe, but tourists often face persistent touts, false guides and inflated prices. Marrakech needs extra care, while Fez has elaborate guide and tour scams; pickpocketing and taxi overcharging also occur in several cities.
Are there similar scams in Morocco?
Yes: complimentary food added to the bill, food-stall blocking and false friendship, watered-down juice.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, robbery, threats or fraud. Give the location, time and any receipts or messages. Ask for a report or reference number. Tourist police at Djemaa El-Fna, Marrakech: approach a patrol for help with harassment, intimidation or a disputed food-stall bill. Airport security at Marrakech-Menara Airport: ask for help if an airport ATM retains your card. Bank or card issuer: use its official app or verified contact number to freeze a card, report unauthorised payments or question undisclosed ATM fees. Accommodation, booking provider or tour business: report the problem through the official reception desk or booking channel. Provide the agreed price and evidence of what was delivered. Travel insurer: use the claims or assistance contact in your policy. Keep police reports, receipts and medical records. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need consular help.
What number do I call in an emergency in Morocco?
Police — listed for Marrakech: 19, Ambulance / Fire — listed for Marrakech: 15.
Reviewed by @snuck