Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

Capital City

With a population of 1,191,000, Bishkek is a sprawling metropolis that can feel overwhelming for the uninitiated. The Kyrgyz capital's wide boulevards and Soviet-era architecture belie a persistent headache of bureaucracy and air pollution that make it a tough sell for many expats. While Bishkek's central district offers museums and cultural attractions, the city's outer neighborhoods are dominated by informal settlements housing around 400,000 residents who lack basic services. For those able to navigate the challenging environment, Bishkek can provide an authentic Central Asian experience - but it's not for the faint of heart.