Morocco
Morocco
Morocco is just a little hop over the water from Europe, 14km from Spain to be precise. A country of sand, spice and souks, Morocco is also a hit with the celebrities. So, if it's swanky enough for them....
Moroccans are very loyal to their King, Mohammed VI, and are backing his plans to put Morocco on the world map. The Moroccan government created their national tourism strategy, the Azur programme, the main objective of which is to attract five times as many tourists in 2010 as in 2002. They will create 6 new coastal resorts, build new roads, develop international airports, and increase direct flights from all over Europe. They have pledged that the infrastructure will be in place to support new developments from June 2006.
Morocco is a must-visit. The cost of living is between six to ten times cheaper than in the UK and of course the weather is superb with temperatures dipping no lower than 15ºC in the winter and hovering around 30ºC for the rest of the year. The countryside is rich with contrasts - immense deserted beaches, 18 golf courses, camel tours, trekking in the Atlas Mountains, modern European-style stores and colourful artisan markets.
However, its richness in terms of investment is just as interesting. The price of land has trebled over the past five years, fueled by the political stability speared by King Mohammed VI. And, as the property regime is similar to that of the UK - leasehold and freehold - it is not too complicated to master. Retirees are particularly enticed by the fact that tax exemption is an attractive 80%, provided that their pension is still being transferred from the UK. You get a lot for your money in Morocco.
Marrakech is easily the most exuberant marketplace in the world with its mysterious labyrinth medina encompassing Sultan's palaces and ornate mansions of rich merchants. In late afternoon, Moroccans and foreigners' alike gather in Djemâa el Fna square to observe the daily spectacle. Storytellers and musicians perform for the crowds and the aroma of fish and meat cooked in earthenware pots fills the air.
All sounds heavenly, but how easy is it to get there? The good news is that from most European capitals, the airports are just over three hours away by aeroplane. To boot there's no jet lag to worry about for Europeans, as Morocco is just one hour behind London.
So pack your sandals, practice your bartering and get thee to Morocco - make sure you cancel the milkman and the paperboy, because maybe, just maybe, you won't fancy coming back.
Take a look at the latest developments in Morocco.