Temirtau, Kazakhstan

Capital City

This industrial city of 170,481 people is no tourist destination. The steel mill dominates the economy and landscape, belching pollution that has literally turned the snow black. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, as evidenced by the 1959 riots over poor living conditions and supply shortages. And while the city boasts impressive Soviet-era sports facilities, Temirtau's remote location and harsh continental climate make it a tough sell for all but the most dedicated athletes and steelworkers.