Marrakech – Australian mattress company Onebed’s latest study has shed light on the globe’s most sleep-challenging tourist spots.
By analyzing five critical factors; average noise levels in decibels, the percentage of negative hotel reviews about sleep quality, the air quality index, tourist foot traffic, and nightclub hours, researchers crafted a composite score.
The result? A ranking that reveals just how difficult it can be to snag a restful night in these bustling destinations, with higher scores signaling greater hurdles to a peaceful slumber.
Marrakech claimed the 6th spot in the ranking, boasting a score of 0.59.
The city’s vibrant energy comes at a cost, as noise levels can soar to an ear-splitting 90 decibels (dBA).
Adding to the challenge, a staggering 60% of hotel reviews highlight concerns about sleep quality, revealing that many travelers struggle to find their Zzzs.
With nightlife pulsating until around 4 a.m., the enchanting atmosphere of Marrakech may entice visitors, but it also creates a restless backdrop that can make tranquility feel like a distant dream for those hoping for a peaceful escape.
“Quality sleep is essential, yet it’s often overlooked when planning a trip. It’s surprising to see just how much noise and nightlife can impact sleep quality in popular destinations,” stated Dylan Tollemache, Co-Founder & CEO at Onebed in the study.
“Places like Hong Kong and Cancun may be on many bucket lists, but the reality of trying to sleep in these lively cities can be quite different,” Tollemache wrote. “What stands out is how even a city’s charm and energy can sometimes mean compromising on a good night’s rest – something travelers might not anticipate when booking their stay.”
Other sleepless cities that made the list
Hong Kong ranks 1st with a composite score of 0.74, making it the most sleep-disruptive tourist destination.
Average noise levels reach 91.4 dBA, and 73% of hotel reviews mention poor sleep quality.
The city’s lively nightlife, with clubs open until 5 a.m., makes restful sleep a rare find.
Cancun, Mexico, holds the 2nd spot, scoring 0.68. Here, getting a good night’s sleep is a challenge, as the city records the highest noise levels among top destinations at 103 dBA.
With 66% of hotel reviews pointing to sleep disruptions and nightclubs closing also around 4 a.m.,Cancun’s vibrant nightlife poses difficulties for those seeking quiet nights.
Las Vegas, USA, takes 3rd place with a score of 0.67.
True to its nickname as “the city that never sleeps,” Las Vegas delivers on its promise with average noise levels of 94 dBA and 57% of reviews highlighting sleep issues.
With over 40 million tourists and nightlife extending also until 4 a.m., Las Vegas is anything but a peaceful getaway.
Shanghai, China ranks 4th with a score of 0.60. The city faces noise levels of 85 dBA, and 62% of negative reviews at 4-star hotels are linked to sleep quality issues.
With nightlife stretching until around 5 a.m., getting rest in this bustling metropolis can be a challenge.
Istanbul, Turkey takes the 5th spot with a score of 0.59. While noise levels are moderate at 59 dBA, 71% of sleep-related complaints at 4-star hotels suggest rest is hard to come by.
Istanbul’s rich culture and nightlife, which additionally runs until 4 a.m., contribute to its sleep-disruptive reputation.
Marrakesh as a must-visit
Despite being one of the most sleep-disruptive travel destinations, Marrakech continues to shine as a top choice for thrill-seekers.
A study by Titan Travel has ranked the vibrant Moroccan city as the 4th best destination for action-packed vacations.
Known for its award-winning escorted tours, the UK-based travel operator highlights that Marrakech offers an impressive 374.3 activities per 100,000 people, making it a haven for those craving a diverse and adventurous travel experience.
