French Retirees Flock to Morocco for Winter Warmth and Lower Costs

After 29 hours of driving and 2,800 kilometers in a motorhome, they enjoy a milder climate and a more advantageous cost of living. Nicole simply expresses her feelings on arrival: "It’s magnificent."

The main motivation for this trip lies in the difference in climate and cost of living, indicates a report by TF1. The search for a milder environment, but also a lighter daily budget, is a determining factor, as Nicole expresses: "Abroad, we really take the time to live." Former employees, they highlight the financial advantage of this stay, allowing them to afford extras, such as going to restaurants.

Thérèse-Marie and Gilles, regular visitors to Morocco, mention the fuel budget. They explain that diesel is their main expense, but point out that the price per liter, "around 1 euro", remains advantageous. Their fuel expenses from the previous year illustrate this advantage. Daily purchases, such as the purchase of olives for less than three euros mentioned by Thérèse-Marie, confirm this financial aspect.

Speaking French in Morocco facilitates the daily life of these retirees. The country has developed its infrastructure, with 250 campsites and dedicated areas. Patrice, the manager of one of these campsites, notes the scale of the phenomenon, which he describes as a seasonal "migration" from the European winter to the Moroccan warmth. The rate of 15 euros per night, including electricity, is another indicator of this attractiveness.

It is estimated that around 30,000 French retirees spend the winter in Morocco, and 60,000 reside there permanently. Morocco therefore offers an alternative for retirees seeking a more affordable living environment, motivated by economic and climatic considerations.