Orsha, Belarus

Capital City

With a population of just 101,662, Orsha is a sleepy Belarusian backwater that offers little to attract foreign residents. The city's once-thriving Jewish community has dwindled, and the local economy remains heavily reliant on Soviet-era factories and transportation links. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, as the city was stripped of its Magdeburg Rights under Russian rule in the 18th century. While Orsha boasts a handful of historic sites, the general atmosphere is one of stagnation, with the population still recovering from the devastation of World War II. Unless you have a specific attachment to the region or a high tolerance for red tape, this city is best avoided by those seeking an exciting expat adventure.