Luninyets, Belarus

Capital City

Don't expect any glamor in Luninyets. This Belarusian town of 23,469 people is a dreary former Soviet rail hub, with a dark history to match. The town was devastated during World War II, with 4,000 local Jews murdered by the Nazis. Today, bureaucracy is a persistent headache, and the climate is harsh.

On the plus side, Luninyets does have a couple vocational colleges for those looking to train in technical fields. But overall, this is a place best suited for die-hard history buffs or those seeking an authentic Soviet-era experience - anyone else is likely to find it a drab and depressing destination.