Mersa Matruh, Egypt

Capital City

With a population of just 108,774, Mersa Matruh is a sleepy port town that feels a world away from Egypt's bustling cities. However, the city's tranquil beaches and mild Mediterranean climate come with trade-offs - bureaucracy is a persistent headache, and its history as a key World War II battleground means the city is dotted with military installations and memorials. For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path coastal escape, Mersa Matruh could be an intriguing option, but it's hardly the glamorous Red Sea resort many foreigners imagine.