Gori, Georgia

Capital City

With just 7,243 residents, Gori is a sleepy Georgian town that offers little to excite the average expat. Founded in the 11th century, this former military stronghold is today best known as the birthplace of Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin. While the city boasts a handful of historical sites, the climate can be oppressive, with summer temperatures regularly reaching over 100°F. Bureaucracy is also a persistent headache, as the local government struggles to recover from the 2008 Russo-Georgian War. Overall, Gori is a place that holds little appeal for all but the most dedicated historians or Stalin enthusiasts.