Meaux, France

Capital City

With a population of just 56,905, Meaux is a sleepy provincial town that lacks the vibrancy of Paris, 25 miles to the west. The city is mostly known for its Brie cheese and mustard, but the humdrum reality is a persistent bureaucratic headache and a dearth of cultural activities beyond historical re-enactments and the occasional music festival. While the town boasts scenic canal-side neighborhoods and a medieval cathedral, the climate is decidedly dreary, with long, cold winters. Meaux is best suited for retirees seeking a quiet, affordable refuge from the bustle of the capital, not young professionals or families seeking an engaging urban experience.