Petropavl, Kazakhstan

Capital City

The population of 222,636 may seem like a decent size, but the bureaucracy and harsh winters make Petropavl a tough sell for many foreigners. The city's strategic location on the Ishim River has made it an important trading post over the centuries, yet the lack of modern infrastructure and lingering Soviet-era issues persist. While Petropavl's history and culture are undoubtedly fascinating, the brutal climate - with over 5 months of frigid, snowy conditions - is a major drawback for those seeking a comfortable life abroad. This gritty industrial hub is best suited for the hardy few who can overlook its flaws.