Jessheim, Norway

Capital City

With a population of just 25,469, Jessheim is a far cry from the bustling metropolis many Americans dream of. The town's claim to fame is its status as a regional commercial hub, boasting one of Norway's largest shopping malls. However, the bureaucracy involved in daily life can be a persistent headache, as evidenced by the town's convoluted name history. And while the old royal burial mound and cultural center provide some local flavor, Jessheim is hardly a destination for the average globe-trotting American. Those seeking a slower, more provincial Norwegian experience may find Jessheim to their liking, but thrill-seekers should look elsewhere.