Kandahār, Afghanistan

Capital City

With a population of just 130,200, Kandahār is a far cry from the bustling metropolis it's often portrayed as. The harsh climate sees scorching summers and freezing winters, while persistent bureaucratic headaches and the lingering threat of violence make daily life a challenge. Despite the city's storied history and cultural significance, its current reality is one of an overstretched infrastructure struggling to keep pace with returning residents. Kandahār is not for the faint of heart - only those with a high tolerance for adversity and a pioneering spirit need apply.