'I paid just £14.99 for a flight from Manchester Airport to a dream sunny destination and had a holiday like no other'
Who doesn't love a holiday? Over 46 million Brits set off every year to escape our gloomy UK weather, get some sun and to top up their Vitamin C levels.
On average, a typical person spends between £1,000 and £1,500 on a holiday, after months of working tirelessly, saving the pennies and even picking up overtime shifts. Things have become tougher in recent years with the cost-of-living crisis emptying our pockets before we even leave the office.
While casually browsing Ryanair (as we all do when fantasising about a trip abroad), I found a flight for just £14.99 to Morocco from Manchester Airport. I didn't hesitate and booked it immediately - with no guilt either. At £14.99, you can't go wrong; it's less than a meal out.
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Morocco is a country in the Maghreb region of North Africa and one of the world's fastest-growing holiday destinations. According to the latest UN Tourism data, Morocco welcomed 17.4 million international tourists in 2024— a 20 percent increase over 2023.
Its rapid tourism growth combined with its rich cultural heritage have seen it be compared to Turkey, while airline bosses have even tipped it as an alternative to the Canary Islands.
Marrakesh is the fourth largest city in Morocco and one of the most captivating - rich in culture and things to do. Founded in the 11th century by the Almoravids, a Berber dynasty that ruled over a vast empire, Marrakesh continues to attract many visitors each year.
Locals often speak up to four languages—Arabic, French, Spanish, and English, so they are well-equipped to welcome tourists. But does Morocco live up to the hype? I think so and here's why.
Hotels can often blend into one another regardless of your holiday destination, yet Marrakesh offers a more unique hospitality experience. A riad is a traditional Moroccan guesthouse with stunning courtyards, intricate tilework, and a serene escape from the lively streets outside. Unlike conventional hotels, riads offer an authentic Moroccan experience with rooftop terraces, pools, and homemade breakfasts.
Enjoy delights like: Beghrir a spongy, melt-in-your-mouth Moroccan pancakes drizzled with argan peanut butter, Msemen: a flaky, square Moroccan pan bread Khobz el-dâr – Traditional Moroccan bread, eggs, lentil, yoghurt, fresh mint tea, coffee, and juices.
No trip to Marrakesh is complete without experiencing Jemaa el-Fnaa, the heart of the city. By day, this lively square is full with a mix of snake charmers, henna artists, and orange juice vendors. By night, it transforms into a bustling open-air market with traditional Moroccan street food. Visitors can indulge in traditional Moroccan foods; kebabs, Harira, Taco poulet Shawarma or even pizza for just under £2.
Venture into the souks (markets) to shop for unique souvenirs: from traditional Moroccan garments; Thobes and kaftans to Berber jewellery which are handmade silver and beaded pieces or spices to take back home such as saffron and cumin. Wandering around can be thirsty work, so be sure to stop for a refreshing glass of freshly squeezed orange juice.
A visit to Morocco wouldn't be complete without experiencing its breathtaking desert landscapes. Discover the Agafay Desert with a tour which involves quad biking, a camel ride, traditional Berber music and a fire show, along with dinner under the stars. The best bit? It only costs £17.
After days of exploring, unwind in a traditional hammam, a Moroccan steam bath experience. A visit to a hammam typically includes a black soap scrub – made from olive oil, which deeply cleanses the pores. Then there's a Ghassoul clay mask which naturally detoxes the skin. For the ultimate relaxation, an Argan oil massage rubs away tension and leaves you feeling rejuvenated.
Discover the Majorelle Garden and Yves Saint Laurent Museum where you can explore lush botanical gardens and the legacy of the famous designer. Stop by the Bahia Palace and Koutoubia Mosque to marvel at Moroccan architecture and history.
If you have extra time, consider a day trip to the Atlas Mountains and Ourika Valley. Visit Berber villages and learn how locals live, hike to waterfalls, and enjoy scenic landscapes.
Marrakesh truly has it all - bustling markets, tranquil hammams, cultural landmarks and delicious food. It's easy to see how this country is fast-becoming a top tourist destination.
Nusayba paid £14.99 for a one-way ticket to Marrakesh with Ryanair. She paid £28.41 for a return ticket and £12.50 for seat allocation and travelled with hand luggage only.
Skyscanner shows one-fares from Manchester Airport to Marrakesh in March from £15 one way in March, with returns from £14.
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Los Angeles Times
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