An Nasiriyah, Iraq

Capital City

With a population of 560,200, An Nasiriyah is a bustling transportation hub in southern Iraq. However, the city's strategic location has made it a frequent battleground, with violent clashes occurring as recently as 2004. The climate is brutally hot, with average summer highs exceeding 110°F. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, as the city was planned and developed under the Ottoman Empire's rule. While An Nasiriyah offers a glimpse into Iraq's rich history, with ancient ruins nearby, it's hardly an oasis of tranquility. This city is best suited for those with a strong stomach and a high tolerance for administrative obstacles.