Polotsk, Belarus

Capital City

With a population of just under 80,000, Polotsk is a modest provincial town in Belarus, well off the beaten path for most expats. The city's medieval history and cultural heritage are undeniable, but the reality on the ground involves navigating heavy bureaucracy and a persistent climate that can be a headache. Polotsk's isolation and Soviet-era trappings make it best suited for hardy adventurers rather than those seeking creature comforts.