Swakopmund, Namibia

Capital City

With a population of just 75,921, Swakopmund is a far cry from the bustling metropolises that many Americans dream of. The coastal city's colonial German architecture and desert climate may seem charming, but the reality is a persistent bureaucratic headache and a fog belt that can envelop the region for over 180 days a year. While the town has some tourist draws like skydiving and marine cruises, the overall impression is one of a sleepy, isolated outpost - hardly the vibrant, cosmopolitan lifestyle that many expatriates crave. For those seeking a slower pace of life in a uniquely arid setting, Swakopmund could be a fit, but most Americans would likely find the city's limited amenities and remote location to be a constant frustration.