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An often over-looked country just four hours from the UK is expected to see a surge in holidaymakers following escalating anti-tourist sentiment in hotspots like Spain
With Spanish activists vowing to make Brits’ summer a miserable one, many tourists are looking for alternative destinations. It follows the string of protests that erupted across hotspots such as Spain and its autonomous archipelago, the Canary Islands, last year – with fed-up locals demanding holidaymakers ‘go home’.
Anti-tourist sentiment has even taken a violent turn in recent months, with a shocking sign threatening to ‘kill a tourist’ spotted in Tenerife, along with reports of rental cars being set on fire to deter tourists. Independent travel agent Michelle Davison says interest in destinations like the Canary Islands continues to be ‘strong’ despite tensions – but advises Brits to book their trip through a travel agent/tour operator in case the ‘situation evolves’.
Speaking exclusively to the Mirror, the travel ace says most of the protests are aimed at local government as opposed to rowdy tourists. Still, if you’re ‘really put off by the thought of protests’ – there are two great alternatives.
“Turkey and Morocco offer affordable holiday options from self-catering apartments, to family-friendly all-inclusive hotels complete with waterparks and tons of activities,” Michelle said. “Both offer guaranteed sunshine and high temperatures, so they’re both a great alternative to the Canaries.”
Travel giant EasyJet Holidays has actually seen a surge in demand for lesser-visited spots, including Egypt and Morocco. Per the Express, Chief Executive Garry Wilson attributes this trend to significant improvements in hotels and infrastructure, making previously overlooked areas far more appealing to international visitors.
Last year, Morocco saw 17.4 million tourists visit the country – a mere drop in the ocean compared to the 94 million that flocked to Spain during the same period. The country, located in North Africa, isn’t exactly a hidden gem – but it’s yet to have complained about over-tourism.
Many holidaymakers flock to Marrakesh, the country’s fourth-largest city renowned for its densely-packed market stalls, stunning mosques, and Jardin Majorelle – a tropical oasis and museum previously owned by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. Agadir has also gained popularity in recent years, boasting stretches of golden sands and family-friendly resorts for those wanting a more relaxed holiday.
You can fly directly to either Marrakesh or Agadir from a slew of major UK airports, including Liverpool, Edinburgh, Bristol, and London. If you’re flexible with dates, you can grab return fares for as little as £35 in May.
Accommodation in Morocco can work out much cheaper than holidaying in places like Spain and Italy. For example, a week’s stay (Monday, May 5-12) in a Riad in Marrakesh will only set you back £434, based on two people sharing. If you want to really splash out, you can stay in a five-star all-inclusive hotel in Agadir for £1,352 on the same dates.
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Is it safe to visit Morocco?
Despite Morocco’s increasing popularity, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) warns that terrorists are ‘very likely to try to carry out attacks in Morocco’. This includes places visited by tourists including popular attractions, crowded places, and transport hubs.
“There is an increased threat linked to the number of Moroccans sympathetic or belonging to Daesh (formerly ISIL) and other extremist groups. Authorities regularly disrupt terrorist cells,” the government states. “In some places, including hotels and tourist sites, there may be protective security measures, including security guards.”
‘Ongoing hostilities’ in nearby countries such as between Israel and Lebanon could also ‘escalate quickly’, the FCDO warns. “There can be occasional violent crime in Morocco,” the body adds. Criminals have used knives against tourists in street attacks, thefts and burglaries in major cities and along beaches.”
To reduce your risk, it is worth avoiding quiet areas after dark or carrying large amounts of money or valuables around. “Same-sex sexual relations are illegal in Morocco. Avoid showing affection in public – complaints can lead to prosecution,” adds the FCDO.
*Prices based on Skyscanner and Booking.com listings at the time of writing. You can read the FCDO’s full travel advice here.
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