Urban places in Africa

With more than 11,000 stalls and shops, Kumasi's Central Market is known as the largest in West Africa (though we haven't been able to find out which one is the biggest in all of Africa). It's insanely chaotic as you approach the outskirts of the market, but as you venture deeper in along the cramped alleyways, the more calm and relax it gets. Losing yourself for hours is part of the fun, and it's particular pleasant due to the surprising lack of hassle. Kente cloth is probably the most popular merchandise, but really, there's not much you can't get here, like smoked rodents. However, if your want something specific or if you're looking for a more comprehensive introduction to the market, you could ally yourself with a guide. If for nothing else, simply to have a chance of finding what you're looking for in the first place.

In the 16th century, when the British and the Dutch settled where Accra lies today, they did so within a few hundred metres from each other. The Brits built Fort James and the Dutch Fort Ussher (while the Danes settled a couple of kilometres further east where they built Christiansborg Castle). The colonial towns that grew around the two forts make up Old Accra, though history hasn't been kind to what's today is the neighbourhoods of Jamestown and Usshertown. Semi-shanty towns and in a doubtful state of disrepair, the area's a friendly enough place for a stroll. Fort James was until recently used as a prison and is still closed to the public, though the nearby lighthouse can be climbed offering excellent views of the fort and the fishing harbour below it – Ghana's largest if not most colourful. Fort Ussher has been opened to the public, containing a small museum. For anyone interested in the area's history or in photographing the neighbourhoods, we recommend hiring the enthusiasts and knowledgeable guides from the community centre 100 metres east of the lighthouse.

One of West Africa's fanciest hotels when it was completed in 1959. As such, the Ducor fared poorly in Liberia's two civil wars. Looted numerous times, captured by rebels and all but destroyed only the hotel's concrete skeleton has been left standing. The former hotel, however, still holds a prime spot on Monrovia's highest point. A privileged it only shares with a monument to Liberia's first president and a few canons. On sunny day's the view of Monrovia and the ocean is unbeatable from what used to be the rooftop bar. Today the hotel is inhabited by squatters, but a five dollar tip to one of the security guards on duty will buy a guided tour of the rather sad landmark.

Jemaa El-Fnaa Square in Marrakesh takes on two contrasting, yet equally captivating personas. During the day, you’ll find endless orange juice and date vendors vying for your business, along with snake charmers and monkey handlers hoping for photo opportunities with tourists. Hopefully, by the time you make it to the square you have experienced enough of Morocco to know better than to expect anything for free, because there are definitely no complimentary services in this square! By night, the square becomes crowded with food stalls offering a good range of Moroccan cuisines. Once you've had your fill of harira and grilled sausages, grab a ginseng tea with cinnamon and ginger and explore the mind-boggling array of entertainment. From public storytelling, magicians, political speeches and musical performances there's plenty on offer. Do not miss the opportunity to watch the square come to life as night falls. Secure a spot in one of the rooftop cafes surrounding the square and watch as the transformation happens before your eyes.