Morocco
by Chris Thompson
From magical Marrakech to the Atlas Mountains this is a stunning land of contrasts.
Beach resorts such as Agadir (I must confess to finding Agadir a little bland!) and Essaouira (loads of character!) have now been joined by properties in Sidi R'bat in the deep south of the Sous-Massa National Park, beside a bird sanctuary. Also, the very cool La Sultana Oualidia in very un-Moroccan pale colours on the edge of a lagoon a short walk along the beach to a fishing village at Oualidia.
Contrast the coast with the dramatic Atlas Mountains. Ride or take guided walks to explore remote Berber villages, mountains and fertile valleys, you will be surprised to find herbs, fruit and flowers growing in this remote area. The few hotels in this area have strong environmental ethics working closely with the local community. Try and visit in the spring for the cherry and almond blossom.
A two or three-centre holiday will allow you to appreciate this land of contrast. Combine any of the above with a stay in Taroudannt or one of the Imperial cities of Fez or Rabat and Marrakech for the perfect stay. Marrakech...... I cannot believe how popular this city has become since my first stay over twenty years ago! However, on my most recent visit it was still a thrill to watch the sun set from my bar's rooftop overlooking Jemma el Fna square. The food stalls, traders and fire eaters still entertain in this to me the closest city in Europe for a touch of the exotic. Now some of the old resting houses are funky restaurants and elegant hotels reflecting the French influence house fine food restaurants, but, it is still rustic and intriguing.
I still love getting totally lost in the souks and watching local people shop, watching the artisans, watching the shopkeepers. Marrakech is superb for people watching, the local people are such a mix - the Blue people from the desert, some look Arabic, others African and then the European blood shows its influence or interference! The choice of places to stay from tiny Riads to fine palaces will spoil you as will the service in them.
If you are feeling adventurous take a fly-drive holiday and if you have children do not be afraid, you can ride on camels in the desert or 4 x 4, enjoy a huge array of water sports, take them to the souks and visit ancient kasbahs - they will never be bored!