WITH winter sun holidays to Spain potentially under threat as Ryanair scraps flights, there’s still a cheap, sunny alternative you should know about.
The country in question is over three hours away from the UK, it has temperatures of 20C and above during the winter months and it’s very affordable too with the average meal costing £3.50.
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Earlier this year, Ryanair announced it would be axing flights to Spain following Aena, the state-controlled airport operator in the country – increasing its fees for airlines.
With this meaning your trip to Tenerife might be more expensive, you can instead look to Morocco instead.
Cities around the North African country could be set to get cheaper flights too as Ryanair has said that the capacity removed from Spanish airports will be reallocated to more competitive European markets, including Morocco.
Here are destinations around the country perfect for whether you’re searching for a city break or beach fun – and here are our suggestions.
Marrakesh
From a bustling Medina, to activities in the desert, vibrant cafes and spice stalls, you can’t go wrong with Marrakesh.
The city in western Morocco is at the bottom of the Atlas Mountains and in the winter months offers warm weather and lots of sunshine.
Lisa Minot, Head of Sun Travel, went on a trip earlier this year and said: “I’ve spent a wonderful long weekend in Marrakech and the city is as exciting as ever.
“We were sunbathing on the roof of our riad in the Medina in glorious 22 degree temperatures – and I loved the amazing desert landscapes just 40 minutes from the hustle and bustle of the souks.
“Tourism is booming in the city and while the streets are as colourful and chaotic as ever, the influx of visitors has brought some gorgeous new bars, restaurants and stunning hotels.”
You can fly from London Stansted to Marrakesh in three hours 40 minutes.
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Agadir
Morocco doesn’t just offer city breaks either, Agadir has incredible golden beaches.
It’s known to be a premier resort destination with beautiful hotels and pristine pools.
Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey visited Agadir last winter and enjoyed the much warmer weather of 25C.
Kara added: “The Moroccan city is home to the country’s largest market, Souk El Had, as well as a bustling harbour and modern marina.
“No wonder the North African country looks set to be a holiday hotspot as Brits look past Spain.”
From the UK, Agadir is just four hours away by plane and you can fly directly from Manchester or Edinburgh with one-way flights in December starting from £14.99.
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Rabat
Rabat has been dubbed an ‘understated seaside gem’ by travel experts and holidaymakers for some time.
Unlike other cities, it isn’t as tourist heavy, so it’s sensible to go if you want a slightly quieter break.
Located on the Atlantic coast, the city has two main beaches called Rabat Beach and Oudayas Beach.
Other attractions include Rabat Archaeological Museum, Jardin d’Essais Botaniques (a botanical garden in the heart of the city) and Chellah Necropolis.
Ryanair offers flights from London Stansted Rabat with one-way flights in December starting from £14.99.
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Essaouira
Another city in Morocco that has great beaches is Essaouira which sits on the southern coast.
Thanks to its coastal spot, it’s great for surfing, but there are also plenty of spots to relax and take in harbour views, and don’t be surprised if you see a camel on the sand.
The main attraction in Essaouira is the old town, with souks offering cheap bargains, and much less haggling required.
Throughout the months of October and March, temperatures can reach highs of 21-24C.
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Fez
Another lesser-visited city in Morocco is Fez. It’s found inland and has been referred to as the “country’s cultural capital”.
There’s plenty of shopping to be done in Fez at the Medina, which is the oldest in North Africa and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It’s made up of over 9,000 alleys that are separated from the outside world by high walls.
Inside you’ll find lots of food, leathers, handmade rugs and hand-painted ceramics.
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Tangier
The city at the very tip of Morocco is Tangier – on a clear day, you can even see Spain across the Strait of Gibraltar.
Tangier has been a major trade centre for thousands of years thanks to its location and busy port.
Visitors can learn about its interesting history with a guided tour, and wander through Kasbah, the walled part of the city full of tiny streets and alleys.
Kasbah has been used for Hollywood movies including James Bond and the Bourne film series.
Ryanair offers one-way from Manchester to Tangier with flights from £16.99 in December.
Plus, Ryanair launches more flights to Europe’s sunniest city.
And make sure to check out this African country set to be the ‘next Morocco’ that’s three hours from the UK and has new direct flights.
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