Valga, Estonia

Capital City

With a population of just 12,173, Valga is a small Estonian town that offers little in the way of big-city amenities. The local newspaper has published since 1944, but beyond that, entertainment and economic opportunities appear limited. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, as evidenced by the complex history of the border with Latvia. And the temperate continental climate means long, harsh winters. Overall, Valga seems best suited for retirees or remote workers seeking a quiet, affordable place to live - as long as they don't mind dealing with red tape and a lack of urban excitement.