Santiago de Cuba, Cuba

Capital City

With a population of 444,851, Santiago de Cuba is no sleepy backwater. The second-largest city in Cuba is a bustling port, but also a headache of bureaucracy and a brutal climate. The city's storied history as a revolutionary hotbed and cultural hub is undeniable, but its sweltering, humid weather and complex logistics are a persistent challenge for new arrivals. While Santiago de Cuba offers a unique blend of Spanish, French, and African influences, its charms come with a price - those seeking an easy transition abroad would be wise to look elsewhere.