The holiday destination that's rivalling old favourites - with flights from Manchester

The Parc de la Ligue arabe in Casablanca, Morocco
-Credit:Getty Images


Brits often choose tried and tested locations for their holidays such as Spain, the Canary Islands, Greece and Turkey. The Canary Islands in particular are the top choice for a winter sun holiday, thanks to their year-round sunshine and temperatures rarely dipping below 20C.

But the Spanish archipelago faces stiff competition from one of the world’s fastest-growing holiday destinations. In comments reported by Canarian Weekly, Jet2 CEO Steve Heapy warned that the Canary Islands are under threat from Morocco.

It comes amid growing anti-tourism sentiment in the Canary Islands, reports the Manchester Evening News. In April and October last year demonstrations were held across the archipelago, with residents taking to the streets to call for a change in the current tourism model. Sign up now for the latest news on the North Wales Live Whatsapp community

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Locals' concerns include the impact of visitors on the environment, local infrastructure and house prices. Responding to this, local governments have announced measures including tourist taxes and eco-taxes for certain national parks.

Even though many residents and local leaders have spoken out against the protests saying that tourists are still welcome, Mr Heapy highlighted that it could cause holidaymakers to look elsewhere, with one destination in particular posing a threat.

The Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, Morocco
The Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, Morocco -Credit:Getty Images

And the Jet2 boss pointed out that Morocco is experiencing a tourism boom and offers “high-quality accommodation at lower prices and welcomes all types of tourists, not just the wealthy.” He added: "The Canary Islands should take note of Morocco's co-ordination between government, airports, and tourism boards, which ensures effective promotion and investment."

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In fact Morocco has recently been named Africa’s most-visited tourist destination, knocking Egypt off the top spot. According to the latest UN Tourism data, Morocco welcomed 17.4million international tourists in 2024, a 20 per cent increase on 2023.q1d

In comparison 15.7million visitors went to Egypt in 2024. UN Tourism Executive Director Natalia Bayona commented that there’s been a 35per cent increase in international arrivals in Morocco since 2019 and cited the country’s “stable political climate and strategic economic policies” for its success.

But what makes this country so attractive to holidaymakers? Morocco offers the winning combination of glorious weather, beautiful scenery and fascinating culture. Lonely Planet describes it as a “country of dazzling diversity, Morocco has epic mountains, sweeping deserts and ancient cities and it greets travellers with warm hospitality and the perfect glass of mint tea.”

What's more, Manchester Airport offers direct flights to three destinations in Morocco - Marrakesh, Casablanca and Agadir - offering holidaymakers everything from a vibrant city break to a relaxing beach getaway.

So in Marrakesh holidaymakers can discover bustling souks, charming hidden gardens and experience relaxing Hammam spas. Meanwhile Agadir is perfect for those looking for a sun, sea and sand holiday, with a vast beach and palm-tree lined promenade.

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And Casablanca, made famous by the 1942 Hollywood film of the same name, offers a mixture of both. Visitors can soak up the sun on Ain Diab beach, wander around the Old Medina or sip on a cocktail on La Corniche.

Morocco is only set to become even more popular in the coming years. In December and January it’s co-hosting the Africa Cup of Nations and looking ahead to 2030 it will co-host the FIFA World Cup with Spain and Portugal.