Constantine, Algeria

Capital City

With a population of just 245,621, Constantine is hardly the thriving metropolis some may expect. The city's picturesque ravines and historic bridges belie the persistent bureaucratic headaches and sweltering summers that await expats. While Constantine exports wheat and has some light industry, the commercial center of eastern Algeria lacks the hustle and scale of Algiers or Oran. Those drawn to the "City of Bridges" for its Arab Capital of Culture status in 2015 may find the reality a far cry from the glossy marketing. Constantine is best suited for resilient adventurers undaunted by the challenges of provincial Algerian life.