AGADIR

Agadir is a more modern city in the southern part of Morocco. In 1960 the city was totally destroyed by an earthquake and left many people dead, injured or homeless. Agadir was  in ruins. One year later King Mohammed V ordered to rebuilt the city. The architecture is therefore different than anywhere else in Morocco. Everywhere you see beautiful and luxurious resorts, hotels and a brand new beach and harbour promenade.

In that way, Agadir is unlike the Morocco you’ll find anywhere else in the country. The architecture is more modern, there is no old town medina, and hotel resorts lie side by side, which makes the city seem less authentic compared to cities like Marrakech and Essaouira. It’s also less traditional then these cities. Agadir is very tolerant. There are nightclubs and casino’s, and an obvious gay community. Although homosexuality is forbidden in Morocco. Engraved into the big hill in Arabic are the words: God, King and Nation.

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Marina, boulevard & beach

Agadir has approximately 340 days of sunshine a year and six kilometres of soft white sand beaches. With the marina, boulevard lined with cafe’s, and luxurious health and beauty spa’s, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing holiday. 

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Every morning we had breakfast in one of the restaurants near the beach. Sitting by the sea, feeling the light breeze, while having delicious Moroccan food was the perfect start of the day.

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Miami of Morocco

A lot of Moroccan and European people come to Agadir to enjoy the sun and the Atlantic Ocean. Agadir is also known as “the Miami of Morocco” and is a hotspot for surfers, beach-lovers and water enthusiasts. We went for a ride on the jet ski, which was awesome!

Souk el Had

If you do want to go for an experience that’s a little bit authentic, far away from the water and the beach, then go to the main Souk in Agadir, Souk El Had. This Souk opens daily, and sells a wide range of fresh herbs, local Argan oil, fruits, vegetables and everything else that’s tasty. Personally I loved the spices. It’s good quality (and cheap). My suitcase still has the smell of all the spices we brought with us. Also for souvenir shopping the Souk offers everything: teapots, tagines, clothing, shoes and leather goods.

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The stallholders are very friendly, unlike in Marrakech where they’d call us names if we didn’t buy anything. In Agadir people approach, but if you decline politely, they wish you a good day. It’s advised to dress conservatively, so cover your shoulders and knees to be treated respectful.

Would you pay a visit to modern Morocco? Or do you prefer a more authentic experience?