Panic in Spain as British tourists abandon holidays for beautiful country 800 miles away

British tourists are being tempted away from the UK's traditional summer destination of choice by the promise of cheaper flights and novel experiences in countries further afield, including Morocco. As if rising anti-tourism sentiment in cities across Spain wasn't enough to disincentivise would-be British holidaymakers this year, prices in some popular regions have jumped by almost 50% in the last six years.

Brits weren't put off from flying to areas including the Costa del Sol, the Balearics and the Canary Islands last year, with the country welcoming a record-breaking 94 million visitors - but the tables could turn during the 2025 peak season. One crucial factor could be a change in flight costs, with prices for trips between Spain and the UK more than doubling from pre-pandemic levels in some cases. Meanwhile, journeys to Morocco have remained largely stable in cost, on platforms including TUI and Booking.com, with a recent rise in interest in the North African country unlikely to be a coincidence.

Experts at Travel and Tour World have even documented a "remarkable rise in travel" to Morocco, with the holiday destination emerging as a "top choice" for Brits curious about expanding their horizons, sometimes with a smaller pricetag.

TUI reported strong growth in demand for Morocco, Egypt and Tunisia in 2024, with good value for money a central reason behind the trend.

Booking.com has also recorded a 68% increase in searches for summer holidays in Tunisia, Euro Weekly News reports, alongside a 39% rise for Morocco and 68% for Egypt.

While growing numbers of international visitors have led to price hikes across the hospitality sector in overstretched European countries, hotels in Morocco have lower costs - with a week-long break in Agadir priced at around £889 per person, compared to costs reaching £2,700 in places like Marbella and Mykonos.

Combined with its rich cultural history, stunning beaches and delicious food, it's no wonder that Brits are considering shaking up their summer holidays by venturing further afield.

As other governments struggle to tackle the infrastructural strain and local discontent linked to overtourism, Morocco is bucking the trend by seeking to boost its footfall ahead of the 2030 World Cup which it will co-host with Spain and Portugal.

Authorities have alighted upon the upcoming tournament as a way to double its visitor arrivals and has a number of new international hotel chains opening in advance as a result.