The road to Morocco. (Agadir)

Member Name: h27gooner

Product:	Agadir
Date:	20/05/09 (31 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Cheap, close and safe.

Disadvantages: A bit tatty and no real culture.

I have been there twice for a winter sun holiday. The second time we took our 2 kids. We went in February and the temperature was between 20 and 25 degrees each day although that was through a mostly 50/50 cloud/sun ratio.

The airport is fairly modern although not very big and about half an hour outside the town. There are a load of cabs waiting but you will be shepherded to the rank and then expected to tip the shepherd even though it's only just outside the terminal. The cabs come in 2 types - little, battered, orange hatchbacks or larger, more comfortable mercedes. The latter costs more and may be worth it on the half hour journey to town but certainly not if you just want to skip around the town itself.

Agadir is essentially a purpose built holiday resort. It suffered a large earthquake in the early 60's and was built up from that. It consists of a line of coast about a mile long with a promenade full of the usual tourist shops, restaurants and bars. It also has a large market just on the outskirts which gives a glimpse of the real Morocco. Hotels abound and many of them, like the one we stayed in, are all inclusinve with decent facilities. It is quite cheap there with a pint of the local lager (which is decent) costing about £1.50 - £2.00. There is an English Pub there which shows the football but most of the bars have satellite TV. The people are generally friendly although when you go shopping you do tend to get pestered. At first this is a hassle but in the end, a firm "no" will usually deter them. My kids got quite into this! Make sure you barter well at the market but a good tip is to look at the prices in the shops first because they sell more or less the same stuff as at the market but at fixed prices so it gives you a good marker.

The place is a bit tatty and the beach isn't the most beautiful although it is clean and, in February, not particularly crowded. Crime doesn't appear to be a problem and it feels safe to walk around. If you want a fairly cheap, sunny holiday, which is only 3 1/2 hours away then I'd recommend this place.

Summary: A great winter sun destination.