Ghadamis, Libya

Ghadamis is an oasis town in the remote Libyan desert, with a population of around 10,000. The historic architecture and UNESCO-protected old quarter are undoubtedly picturesque, but the climate is brutally hot, with average summer highs over 105°F. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, as the city has changed hands between empires and factions over the centuries. And in recent years, Ghadamis has seen ethnic tensions and violence, with the entire Tuareg community forced to flee in an act of ethnic cleansing. Those seeking a remote, traditional Saharan lifestyle may find Ghadamis appealing, but its challenges make it a poor choice for most.