I had heard lots of great stories about Essaouira, so thought it would be worth the trip down from Marrakesh, and as it turned out it was well worth the effort to get there.

The central souqs are laid out in a grid, making them easier to navigate than many other medinas. This is due to the site being planned as a European style city on the African Coast. It was based on St Malo in northern France (worth a visit if you are near Mt St Michel), which is a much grander and perhaps better-preserved city, and many aspects of the two cities are the same, especially the sea facing ramparts (picture). This was my favourite part of Essaouira, it was very windy but was a great place to relax and have some lunch.

I must admit to being a little under whelmed when I first arrived, with the city centre not really being anything too interesting. However the ramparts did add something more. In regards to its merits for inscription, I know ICOMOS dragged their feet in regards, and I can understand why, it is not as impressive or as well preserved as St Malo. However it being a European planned city in Africa makes it important and it was a destination for much of the goods from the Saharan hinterland en-route to the European Market. I had good fun battering for Berber and Dogon goods in the souqs so I can attest to the fact that the goods still get through.

Even if I am a little suspicious of its place on the list, it is a really great place to visit, especially if you want to relax after hectic moments in Marrakesh's souqs.