Bruges
The Belgian city of Bruges knows what a difference the list can make. It has enjoyed coveted World Heritage status for the past ten years. Mayor Patrick Moenaerts sees it as the city's just reward for a long tradition of treating its cultural heritage with tender loving care.

"We all know tourism is good for the economy. And for a tourist city, this is an important thing to have on your calling card."

But Mr Moenaerts is not blind to the drawbacks. Bruges is also a city where people live and work. He is not happy when he hears the term "living museum".

"A city has to live and progress. There is constant friction between living in the 21st century and respecting your heritage".

But all told, the mayor believes that the advantages of being a World Heritage City outweigh the disadvantages.

Many Amsterdammers unconvinced
Many of Amsterdam's residents remain unconvinced by such optimism. One concerned local is publicist Rogier van Kralingen, who feels strongly that Bruges should not become the template for Amsterdam.

"People don't visit Amsterdam just because it gives them a flavour of the past, but because it has a strong spirit of freedom. The city has an open-hearted, liberal feel to it."

Mr Van Kralingen is worried that UNESCO's hefty rule book will turn his beloved city into a living museum:

"If a city wants to create a good environment for its residents and for international businesses - which, let's face it, will have to provide most of our income - you need to maintain a healthy balance between tourism, recreation and people's freedom to do what they want."

He is convinced that the city has succeeded in striking such a balance, now and for the future. In his view, the title of World Heritage City can only upset the equilibrium.