Doha – Morocco has been praised as an increasingly popular and diverse travel destination, in a recent report published by Independent Online (IOL), a prominent South African news outlet. Specifically, the report notes that Morocco is particularly well-suited for women travelers and girlfriends looking for a unique and immersive experience.

The article, titled “5 reasons why you should consider Morocco for your next girls’ trip,” highlights the country’s blend of ancient traditions and modern allure, offering distinct experiences in its major cities.

IOL’s travel experts emphasize that Morocco is a safe destination for tourists and women, although solo female travelers might receive unwanted attention from men. They suggest that this can be mitigated by wearing loose-fitting clothing, “having a fake husband,” and traveling in a group.

One of the key reasons to visit Morocco, according to the South African outlet, is the unique charm of its major towns.

“Morocco is a melting pot of African, Berber, Arab, and French influences, creating a unique cultural tapestry and each major town reflects this diversity,” the article states.

It specifically mentions Marrakesh, known as the Red City due to its clay buildings, and Tangier, the White City, famous for its immaculate white houses and its crucial role in trade between Africa and Europe.

The report also praises Morocco’s culinary delights, describing the country’s cuisine as “a feast for the senses, renowned for aromatic spices, delicious tagines, and mouth-watering pastries.” It recommends traditional dishes such as couscous, tagine, harira soup, and mechoui, as well as seafood specialties like fish chermoula.

For adventure seekers, IOL highlights Morocco’s diverse landscapes, from the Atlas Mountains to the Atlantic coast and the Sahara Desert. “Whether it’s mountain escapades, coastal retreats, or desert experiences, Morocco caters to every type of traveler,” the article notes.

The vibrant souks and architectural wonders are also mentioned as must-see attractions. The report describes the markets as “vibrant hubs filled with colors, scents, and lively sounds,” while the country’s architectural gems, such as the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca and the ancient medinas in Marrakesh and Fez, are said to narrate chapters of Morocco’s rich history.

“Intriguing, diverse, and endlessly captivating, Morocco is a must-visit thanks to its unique blend of tradition and modernity. Every corner of Morocco invites exploration, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a truly immersive travel experience,” the IOL travel experts conclude.

The Moroccan tourism industry has proven its mettle once again, achieving unprecedented success in 2023 despite the lingering effects of the global pandemic.

According to recent data released by the Office des Changes (exchange office), Morocco’s foreign exchange bureau, the country welcomed a staggering 14.5 million tourists last year, leading to a remarkable tourism revenue of MAD 104.6 ($10.5 billion).

This impressive figure not only represents an 11.7% increase compared to 2022 but also surpasses the pre-pandemic baseline year of 2019 by an astonishing 12%. The Ministry of Tourism attributes this success to the country’s unwavering commitment to its 2023-2026 tourism program, which aimed to attract 13.5 million tourists. Remarkably, Morocco exceeded this target by a million visitors.

Read also: 101 Guide: How to Solo-Travel as a Woman in Morocco