Limbe, Cameroon

Capital City

With a population of just 84,223, Limbe is hardly the bustling African metropolis many Westerners envision. The coastal city's sleepy charm comes at a price - a heavy bureaucratic burden that can make daily life a persistent headache. While Limbe boasts scenic black sand beaches and a lively annual cultural festival, the lack of a functioning airport and limited transport options beyond the dilapidated port make it an impractical choice for those seeking easy access to the rest of Cameroon or the wider region.

This former German colonial outpost, now the center of Cameroon's oil industry, offers a more authentic taste of West African life. But with its limited amenities and remote location, Limbe is best suited for adventurous expats undaunted by the challenges of living in a small, provincial city.