Lashkar Gāh, Afghanistan

Capital City

With a population of just 21,600, Lashkar Gāh is a far cry from the bustling metropolises many Americans dream of. The city's tree-lined streets and riverside charms quickly give way to a harsh reality - a heavy bureaucracy that rivals the sweltering desert climate. While the Helmand Valley irrigation project once brought jobs and prosperity, the decades of conflict have left Lashkar Gāh struggling. Those seeking a quiet, affordable life in Afghanistan may find Lashkar Gāh appealing, but the city's persistent security challenges are not to be underestimated.