Why Puerto Morelos and Marrakech Are the Must-Visit Destinations This Summer
Beautiful Puerto Morelos and mesmerising Marrakech are two destinations creeping up Brits’ bucket lists this summer, according to loveholidays’ new Recharge report.
Beach-loving Brits looking for a relaxing, seaside escape are increasingly searching for quieter, more affordable destinations still within reach of exciting attractions, offering them the best of both worlds. Meanwhile, those seeking adventure within a city are branching out, opting for new destinations with fascinating cultures, customs and lifestyles.
Enter Puerto Morelos and Marrakech, the standout long haul and city escapes of the summer. But what is so unique about these destinations, and why are they attracting budget-conscious travellers?
Commenting on the analysis, Al Murray, Chief Marketing Officer at loveholidays, said: “It’s no surprise we’re seeing UK holidaymakers branching out to neighbouring spots around popular resorts, as hidden gems like Puerto Morelos offer a quieter, more affordable escape without losing that close connection to neighbouring attractions. At the same time, we’re seeing travellers look for cultural experiences and better value, which is why Marrakech is growing in popularity.”
CEVICHE AND CENOTES IN PUERTO MORELOS
ABOUT: Puerto Morelos in Mexico is this summer’s emerging long haul beach destination. New analysis by loveholidays revealed that summer bookings to the Mexican port town surged by 100% versus last year.
Located on the Caribbean coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, lesser-known Puerto Morelos is nestled between vibrant Riviera Maya resorts Cancún and Playa del Carmen, and offers holidaymakers a more affordable alternative. Its serene atmosphere, quieter streets, and bohemian beach bars are attracting more Brits than ever before.
WHAT TO DO: Priding itself on its fresh seafood caught daily by local fishermen, ceviche is a town staple and abundant in Puerto Morelos. Ceviche is a combination of fresh seafood marinated in lemon juice, mixed with avocado, tomato, onion and cilantro, with many local restaurants adopting their own twists.
Diving and snorkelling enthusiasts can explore the Mesoamerican Reef, spanning for miles along the Caribbean coast, home to a variety of fish and coral species, as well as marine mammals such as whale sharks and manatees.
Visiting a cenote is a must-do in this region, and the Cenotes Route is a road that extends from Puerto Morelos into the interior of the Yucatan Peninsula, known for its dense jungles and freshwater swimming holes, once used for water supply and religious rituals by the ancient Maya.
WHERE TO STAY:
4 star Ventus at Marina El Cid Spa & Beach Resort from £639pp for seven nights, flying from Manchester with TUI on 17th September 2025, all inclusive, based on two people sharing
SOUKS AND STARGAZING IN MARRAKECH
ABOUT: On the flip side, Morocco’s vibrant capital, Marrakech, topped loveholidays’ list as the most popular city break of the summer. Enchanting holidaymakers with its busy souks, endless shopping and state-of-the-art architecture and design, Marrakech boasts just a three hour flight from London airports. With the added bonus of just an hour’s time difference, it is an ideal choice for an affordable and accessible city break.
WHAT TO DO: Shopping in the souks is a popular pastime in Marrakech. The biggest is Souk Semmarine and offers a variety of marketplaces selling pottery and hand-woven homewares such as rugs and cushions.
For a dose of traditional dining, local specialities include tagine, a traditional stew cooked in an earthenware pot, followed by a palette-cleansing mint tea.
Embodying diverse landscapes, Marrakech is also the gateway to the Sahara Desert, where visitors can stay in a camp and watch remarkable sunsets, stargaze, quad bike through the dunes and take hiking trips up the Atlas Mountains.
WHERE TO STAY:
4 star Iberostar Waves Club Palmeraie Marrakech from £309pp for four nights, flying from London Gatwick with easyJet on 30th November 2025, all inclusive, based on two people sharing
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