Kafr El Sheikh, Egypt

Capital City

With a population of just 103,301, Kafr El Sheikh hardly qualifies as an Egyptian metropolis. This Nile Delta town is primarily an agricultural and fishing hub, producing a third of the country's seafood. However, the bureaucracy can be a persistent headache, and the hot desert climate is not for the faint of heart.

The University of Kafr El Sheikh, established in 2006, provides higher education options, though the city's cultural attractions are limited. Kafr El Sheikh may appeal to those seeking a quieter, more provincial Egyptian experience, but it's unlikely to satisfy urbanites craving the excitement of Cairo or Alexandria.