Marrakech Tops British Tourists’ List for Affordable Summer Getaways

According to a TUI study, Morocco, Egypt, and Tunisia are all experiencing a boom in demand, with destinations like Marrakech recording a record number of tourists. In total, nearly 20,000 flights are expected to depart from London to North African destinations, compared to 8,600 recorded in 2019, according to aviation analysts Cirium. For its part, Booking.com says it has seen a 64% increase in searches for summer holidays in Tunisia compared to last year. Searches for Egypt increased by 64%, while those for Morocco increased by 39%.

According to Chris Logan, TUI’s commercial director in the UK, this demand is explained by the "value for money" which is fantastic compared to more expensive places in Europe. "There is good quality accommodation and beautiful weather beyond the traditional summer season," he told PA. "Even during the winter months, temperatures are mild, making it a perfect choice for year-round travel." Holidays are also extremely cheap in North Africa. Offers under £300 are available in four-star hotels in Morocco, it is specified.

For Nicki Tempest-Mitchell, managing director of travel agency Barrhead Travel, North Africa is "a region to watch over the next few years." According to Julia Lo Bue-Said, CEO of Advantage Travel Partnership, a network of independent travel agents, there is a "clear trend towards value-conscious holiday planning." "The continued pressure of the cost of living and reduced disposable income have meant that, even though people remain determined to take holidays, they are increasingly focusing on maximizing value for money," she added.

She continued: "This shift has led to growing popularity for destinations like Morocco, Egypt, and Tunisia, which offer more competitive prices and high-quality accommodation options compared to more traditional resorts in the Western Mediterranean."