Rabat – Morocco’s picturesque coastal town of Essaouira has earned a position on Travel Lemming’s list of the “50 Top Travel Destinations for 2024,” solidifying its status as a must-visit destination.
Securing the 28th position amidst a diverse array of global destinations, Essaouira stands as a testament to Morocco’s coastal treasures, garnering attention from travel enthusiasts and experts.
The annual ranking, collaboratively curated by over 35 travel experts, positioned Essaouira ahead of locations such as Biaritz in France, Jacksonville in Florida, and Spring Green in Wisconsin.
The ranking is finalized after a nomination phase, a selection phase where the editorial board rates nominees, and a fact-checking phase to ensure factual accuracy.
According to the report, Essaouira is “a Moroccan coastal jewel” that offers a mix of cultural charm and seaside tranquility.
“Embrace artistic vibes in galleries, relax on the beach, indulge in fresh seafood, and soak in the laid-back atmosphere,” Travel Lemming’s piece on the city reads. “Essaouira offers a rich history, vibrant culture, and refreshing Moroccan getaway with far fewer crowds.”
This recognition arrives as Morocco’s tourism industry witnessed an unprecedented 39% growth in October 2023, welcoming over 12 million visitors during 2023 so far.
Notably, the achievement comes following initial concerns on the impact of the September 8 earthquake near Marrakech, a prime tourist hub.
Morocco’s Minister of Tourism Fatim-Zahra Ammor expressed pride in how the country overcame its challenges, stating: “We have just surpassed the 12 million visitor mark in 2023, despite the challenges posed by the Al Haouz earthquake.”
Morocco is also aiming to diversify its source markets, aiming for a record-breaking year with a target of 14 million tourists.
