While playing the hypothetical game can be entertaining, it’s not always the most productive use of time—especially when it comes to debating which neighborhood in the world is the coolest. But that’s exactly what English media outlet Time Out set out to do. After countless debates, conversations, and extensive research, the London-based network compiled a list of 38 standout neighborhoods, chosen for their vibe, style and respective charm.
As part of an annual series, Time Out asked its team of on-the-ground writers and editors to locate the most vibrant neighborhoods around the globe, using criteria such as food, drink, art, culture, street life, and community, to present what, according to them, makes an area a must-visit destination. And in this year’s edition of their ranking, it was Notre-Dame-du-Mont, in Marseille’s 6th arrondissement, that claimed the list’s top spot, thanks to its “jovial, laidback feel” and diverse “concentration of galleries, lively restaurants, (…) and community-minded shops.”
Coming in second place is Mers Sultan in Casablanca, which claimed the runner up position for being a “concrete jungle of criss-crossing narrow streets and art deco, art nouveau, and modernist buildings.” Now considered one of the city’s beating hearts for all things art, culture, and music, local Time Out writer Lauren Schenkman explains how this particular pocket of town has become a gather-place for an entire generation eager to create, connect, and collaborate. As each correspondent has done for the area they have submitted, Mers Sultan’s presentation comes with a quick guide on how to spend the perfect day alongside a tip on how to plan your prospective stay.
According to Shenkman’s description, an ideal day in Mers Sultan starts with a visit to the old flat of renowned Moroccan musician Abdelwahab Doukkali, which is now a museum. After that, you should grab a sandwich by Cité Maréchal Améziane, “a heritage residential building bustling with life,” then catch a movie at Eden Cinema. From there, wrap up the day with a warm cup of coffee at Champs Élysées Café while watching skateboarders show off their tricks. For the evening, you have two options: either hit up Atomic Bar for a drink or head to the rooftop of the Washington Hotel to take in the views of the White city as the sun goes down.
When it comes to her tip on planning your trip ahead, Shenkman recommends visiting Casablanca “during the city’s Heritage Days, a week-long event of free guided tours put on by the non-profit Casamemoire, usually in May,”.
The top five is rounded out by Pererenan in Bali, Indonesia; Seongsu-dong in Seoul, South Korea; and Kerns in Portland, USA.