Latest news with #Essaouira

Times

Morocco travel advice: is it safe to visit right now?

Morocco makes an ideal short-haul holiday destination for families, couples and adventure seekers alike. There are direct flights from several UK airports and with a journey time of under four hours, and there's no jetlag to contend with. The capital Rabat offers plenty of culture, while Essaouira is a top choice for surfers. And then there's Marrakesh, an all-rounder for first time visitors and the gateway to the Atlas mountains. Morocco is hundreds of miles away from both Israel and Iran, but conflict in the Middle East has raised tensions there. On June 13, after Israel attacked Iran, the UK Foreign Office updated its guidance to state: 'Ongoing hostilities in the region and between Israel and Iran could escalate quickly and pose security risks for the wider region.' This advice remains in place after the US launched an attack on Iran's nuclear sites on June 21 and since Israel and Iran agreed a ceasefire that has held since Tuesday, June 24. The agreement followed twelve days of fighting that closed down airspace across the Middle East and disrupted flights and travel plans. Aaprt from conflict in the region, there are other safety concerns to bear in mind when visiting Morocco. Here's what you need to know. • Is it safe to travel to the Middle East right now?• Is it safe to travel to Israel right now? The Foreign Office does not currently advise against travelling to any part of Morocco, although it updated its guidance on June 13 in light of the situation in the Middle East. It stated: 'Ongoing hostilities in the region and between Israel and Iran could escalate quickly and pose security risks for the wider region. You should monitor local and international media for the latest information, be vigilant and follow the instructions of local authorities.' Although a ceasefire has held since June 24, this advice remains in place. More generally, it states that terrorists are 'very likely' to try to carry out attacks in Morocco, noting that there is an increased threat linked to the number of Moroccans sympathetic or belonging to Islamic State and other extremist groups. Places highlighted as being at potential risk include crowded areas, government buildings, transport networks, businesses with western interests, and areas where foreign nationals and tourists are known to gather. • Best hotels in Morocco• Best hotels in Marrakesh Morocco is far from Israel — further than Italy and Greece, for example — so geographically has not been affected by the conflicts between Israel and Hamas, Hezbollah or Iran. However, amid ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran, the Foreign Office recently updated its guidance to warn that hostilities could 'pose security risks for the wider region'. Morocco signed the US-brokered Abraham Accords in 2020, normalising relations with Israel in a move to strengthen ties. However, there is also significant support for Palestinians within the country, and rallies and protests have taken place. The Foreign Office advises that visitors avoid any kind of political protests; you should stay informed by following local news, and obey instructions from security officials. • Is it safe to travel to Cyprus right now? While the Foreign Office does not currently advise against travelling to any part of Morocco, it raises some general safety considerations to bear in mind. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing, bag snatching and drive-by motorcycle theft are common in Morocco, particularly in tourist areas such as historic quarters and beaches. There have also been occasional reports of violent crime, where weapons such as knives have been used against tourists in street attacks and burglaries. The Foreign Office advises avoiding quiet areas (especially after dark) and not carrying large amounts of cash or valuables with you. You should also watch out for scams, which are common. These can include credit card fraud as well as bogus tour guides offering their services. If you do use a guide in the medina quarter, make sure they have an official to the Foreign Office, British passport holders do not need a visa to enter Morocco for tourism for up to 90 days (to stay for longer than this, request an extension at a local police station). Travellers visiting for other reasons should check with the Moroccan Consulate General in the UK about visa requirements. Your passport should be valid for at least three months after the day you enter Morocco. It should not be damaged, otherwise you may be refused entry. You should also make sure your passport is stamped on arrival, or you may experience difficulties leaving. • Best villas in Morocco• Best riads in Marrakesh Morocco is generally considered safe for female travellers, especially in holiday resorts. However, if you're travelling alone, you may receive unwanted attention from men. The Foreign Office advises wearing loose-fitting clothing that covers the arms, legs and chest. • What can women do to stay safe while abroad? Homosexuality is illegal in Morocco, although the country remains a popular destination for LGBT travellers. The Foreign Office advises against public displays of affection, which may cause offence and lead to prosecution. • Safest countries for LGBT travellers• Is it safe to travel to Egypt right now? Latest advice