Morocco is a popular tourist destination in northwestern Africa and provides wonderful gay travel. This is a land of rich history, deeply entrenched culture, legend and myth. Well-known as a setting for books, play and movies, this desert nation offers visitors the opportunity to explore ancient ruins, traipse across the desert on a camel, stay in a hotel made of sand and bargain with insistent rug and spice traders in old-world open air marketplaces. In many cities and towns traditional homes have been converted into guest lodgings, called riads, which often provide for a more welcoming environment for folks on a gay vacation and allow visitors to experience Moroccan life and culture up close. Morocco is a conservative Muslim country and has no scene to speak of; however other reasons to include this exotic land in your gay travel ideas are abundant, including beautiful beaches, exceptional architecture, expansive desert landscapes and the chance to meander through souks (markets) that twist and turn through narrow village streets.
Any travel experience in Morocco must include exploring the distinct quarters of the Fes medina, taking in the art deco architecture of Casablanca, breathing in the ocean air while watching a spectacular sunrise or sunset in Tangier, and visiting the Dar Si Said Museum in Marrakech. With breathtaking Muslim mosques, snake charmers, street performers, ancient Roman ruins and so much more, a vacation to Morocco gives travelers the opportunity to immerse themselves in the colors, sounds, sights and smells of this unique country.
Morocco was once a popular gay vacation destination for jet set from Europe, including famous writers, composers and socialites; however, although Morocco was once known as a welcoming spot for exotic gay vacations, homosexuality was criminalized in Morocco in 1962. While the law is rarely enforced, travelers on a vacation in Morocco should be aware that same-sex conduct is illegal and is punishable by fines and six months to three years of imprisonment.
In a 2009 statement, the Moroccan government asserted that homosexuality will not be tolerated and will be repressed, which means there may be an increase in enforcement and travelers should be particularly aware of their surroundings when in public. Laws and attitudes such as this are common in countries that are primarily Muslim and do not necessarily indicate that Morocco should be avoided when partaking in gay travel.
It simply means that discretion and awareness are advised while taking gay vacations in Morocco. Travelers may want to consider visiting Morocco in an organized travel tour group or planning your vacation to Morocco through a gay tours agency that has particular knowledge regarding the most welcoming lodgings and locations for vacations.
Howie Holben administers Spirit Journeys, a Uk marriage visa best gay travel organization that focuses on spiritual travel. Howie has travelled the world learning from indigenous peoples. You can learn more about Howie, his work and Uk marriage visa gay yoga with a spiritual focus at Spirit Journeys website.