A lot of thought and planning should go into a holiday, and undoubtedly the biggest decision is also the most obvious one: where shall you go? Usually the answer to this is pretty obvious, so use your gut. If you’re looking for a hot, exotic getaway though, you are spoiled for choice. But if you’re looking for somewhere hot, exotic and with a little extra which you won’t find in the usual tourist resorts, then an affordable and accessible choice is Morocco. There are many reasons to choose Morocco for your next holiday destination, from the many months of sunshine to the fabulous surfing.

Want to relax? No problem. Want the buzz and excitement of a city break? It’s got that too. In fact, Morocco can cater for any type of holiday you want; from mountaineering and climbing in the lower Atlas Mountains to going on a traditional Moroccan residential cookery course or family holiday to Marrakech. For relaxing though, Morocco can’t be beaten. The pace of life is slow and the country is known for its love of spas, messages and aromatic oils: local Hammams are the perfect place for indulgence. Foodies love Morocco, as the souks and street vendors are a great way to experience quick bites of traditional cuisine, but if you want more then many hotels and upmarket riads often offer traditional cookery lessons. Or of course, you can just spend your evenings enjoying the wealth of restaurants and open-air eateries on offer at sunset.

Desert tours are an increasingly popular reason for people to choose Morocco for their next holiday, as you can often get a lot of ‘experience’ for your money. Picked up in a Jeep from your hotel, you’re driven out to the desert to spend a day, or two or three, enjoying a thrill-ride through the sand dunes, or riding on the back of a camel, before pitching up a yurt-style tent to enjoy a massage and traditional dinner before nightfall.

Though not an obvious choice for a shopping holiday, Morocco will almost certainly be a surprise for anyone after some retail therapy. Forget your big designer names here, unless you’re happy with fakes from the souk, as with holidays in Morocco there are much better things to buy; from fine handmade silks and perfumes, to exotic spices, leather goods, rugs and tapestry and many more types of traditional goods.

History is everywhere in Morocco too. Marrakech is the most common choice for visitors, but the ancient cities of Fez and Casablanca should not be overlooked. Fez used to be the country’s capital city and still retains its labyrinth of streets and alleys, souks, monuments and history. For an alternative to Morocco’s old world charm and Arabian nights, then head to Essaouira. Popular with sunbathers and surfers, this coastal town is not only stunning thanks to its Old town stone walls, but it also comes alive at night with live music and dancing.

Disclaimer: The information contained within this article is the opinion of the author and is intended purely for information and interest purposes only. It should not be used to make any decisions or take any actions. Any links are included for information purposes only.