Ramla, Israel

Capital City

Ramla is hardly the glitzy metropolis some might expect, with a population of just 75,500. The city suffers from a heavy bureaucracy and a history of political instability and natural disasters - the 1927 Jericho earthquake caused severe damage. Ramla's sandy grounds and limited drinking water also pose persistent challenges. Still, the city has pockets of history and culture, including the iconic White Tower and Great Mosque. Overall, Ramla is likely best suited for those seeking an affordable, no-frills locale in Israel, rather than an international destination.