Your Sassy, Safe Survival Guide

So, you’ve met a charming new man online. He’s romantic, finer than anyone you’ve ever hooked up with, and those steamy WhatsApp video chats? Whew. You’ve got your bags packed with lingerie, sunscreen, and big expectations. But slow down, sis—before you get swept up in desert rose fantasies and moonlit proposals in Merzouga, here’s your guide to meeting him in person with sass, safety, and a solid Plan B.

The good, the bad, and the “what was I thinking?”—here’s how to stay safe and slay.

1. Don’t Let the WhatsApp Poetry Fool You

Some men are fluent in seduction. They’ll quote Quran in the morning, Pablo Neruda by afternoon, and might be texting four other women by dinner. Talk is cheap, even when it’s wrapped in calligraphy and kisses. Watch his actions, not his emojis.

2. Dress Respectfully, Not Like It’s Cancun

Some places are not like the US or European countries where going topless on the beach is the norm. Many countries are much more conservative. Belly-baring tops and Daisy Dukes will turn heads for all the wrong reasons. In some countries I’ve visited, I was surprised at the dramatically different norms, depending on the area, or even time of year. In Morocco during summer some hot spots like Casablanca are packed with tourists (including some Moroccans) rocking crop tops and short dresses, but year-round locals keep it modest. Wherever you are going, keep it classy. Think long flowy dresses, loose pants, and a scarf for mosques or judgmental aunties. You’ll likely meet his family or friends, so dress to impress respectfully.

3. Skip the PDA

Forget “90 Day Fiancé” vibes where Nicole clings to “Assan” in Morocco begging for a smootch—public displays of affection are a no-no. Even if he says he “doesn’t care what people think,” don’t expect kisses in public. Maybe a French air kiss near the cheek if you’re lucky. Save the steamy moments for private, safe spaces. PDA can attract trouble or at least serious side-eye.

4. Book A Room or Airbnb in Your Name

Ideally, book a hotel or Airbnb for yourself. You might want to stay with him, but don’t plan on crashing at his place, especially the first time. If he insists you stay with him or his family, think twice. Legally, in certain countries (particularly Muslim countries like Morocco,) an unmarried man and a foreign woman sharing a room can raise issues—police might even knock, and your partner could be arrested. Be safe, book your own spot and have backup options ready.

5. Have a Plan B (And Backup Cash)

Always be able to leave. If the vibes shift from flirty to freaky, keep extra cash, a charged phone, and your passport in your bag. Take photos of your passport and email them to yourself. Be ready to bounce if needed.

6. Watch for Scammer Red Flags

Not every Moroccan man is a scammer, but some see foreign women as a ticket to Europe or America. Nothing wrong with wanting to go abroad—who hasn’t dreamed of a rich prince or a Dubai penthouse? But if he’s talking marriage within 48 hours or hinting you’ll pay his way, calm your ovaries. That’s a visa application, not love. For more tips on avoiding romance scams, click here.

7. Trust Your Gut, Not the Fantasy

If something feels off—it is. Feeling rushed, guilt-tripped, or love-bombed? Pull back. You don’t owe anyone your body, money, or future just because they called you “Habibti” ten times a day. Fantasy is fun, but reality is where safety lives.

8. Look Fabulous, Travel Light

Leave the heels and 18 makeup palettes. Morocco’s medinas are cobblestoned, riads have endless stairs, and the terrain is rugged. Go for comfort, class, and confidence. Pack one “yes, I’m the fantasy” outfit, but keep sneakers handy.

9. Meet His People

If he introduces you to his family or friends, it’s either serious or a tactic to make you feel “part of the tribe.” Notice how they treat you. Warm? Respectful? Or are you getting side-eyes from the sister who might be more than just a sister? Read the room.

10. Keep Your People in the Loop

Tell your bestie where you are. Share your location. Join a group chat or Facebook groups like Girls Love Travel or Host a Sister and check in daily. It’s not paranoia—it’s smart. You’re a queen, and queens have backup.

11. Make a Local Friend

Before you go, connect with someone who lives in the country you’ll be visiting, or with another solo female travelers who will be there when you will. You can find people through groups like WWLM (Women Who Love Moroccans, English SPeaking Women in (various cities), Couchsurfing, Girls Love Travel, or Host a Sister. Tell your guy you’re meeting a friend—it’s a safety net. Even if they’re in another city, knowing you can WhatsApp them for advice or a crash pad in an emergency is clutch.

12. Stay Grounded in Abundance

Don’t confuse chemistry with compatibility. He’s sexy, but is he safe? Kind? Does he support your dreams or just hype your body? You’re the prize. Stay rooted in abundance, not desperation. Trust The Creator, don’t chase—let truth reveal itself.

13. Plan Like a Solo Traveler

Catfishing happens, even with video. Plan your entire trip as if you’re traveling solo. Morocco isn’t cheap, so don’t waste your money sulking over a man. If the spark isn’t there, hit the souks, sip mint tea, and make it the trip of a lifetime.

14. Let Him Step Up

Good men are raised to provide, even if they’re not ballers, especially in Muslim countries. For the first trip, let him offer to cover what he can—coffee, meals, whatever. Don’t buy him an iPhone or foot the whole bill. You can contribute later, but let him show he’s got you first. It sets the tone for respect.

Final Vibes

Going to another country to meet your lover could be a wild, spicy, romantic adventure—or a cautionary tale for your group chat. Go smart, go fierce, go with a backup charger. Walk like your ancestors prayed you here, and know The Creator’s got your back. Before you go, ask yourself some questions and answer honestly. When you’re sure, and ready, Morocco’s waiting—so make it epic.