Carcassonne, France

Capital City

With a population of 46,080, Carcassonne is a magnet for tourists, but the reality is far less romantic. The city relies heavily on tourism, and its economy is still recovering from the collapse of the Ottoman textile market in the 18th century. While the medieval citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage site, the bureaucracy can be a persistent headache, and the region is prone to intense thunderstorms and flooding. Carcassonne may appeal to history buffs, but those seeking a straightforward expat experience should temper their expectations.