by Max Pesling
A2-1/2 to 3-hour drive from Marrakesh, one of Morocco’s jewels is theAtlantic port city of Essaouira, built by the Portuguese as thefortified town of Mogador in the 18th century and today a UNESCO WorldHeritage Site. Here in this mix of traditional and hip alternative vibe(along with some nearby beach resorts), as elsewhere in Morocco, themost atmospheric places to stay are the riads (traditionalhouses) converted into inns. A good example, starting at just overUS$100/night, the 10-room, lilac-hued Casa Lila in the medina (old citycenter) is a marvelous mix of affordability and elegant design. More info: RiadsMorocco.com.
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