Islamabad, Pakistan

Capital City

With a population of over 1 million, Islamabad may seem like the ideal planned capital, but the reality is a heavy bureaucratic burden and persistent headaches from the fickle climate. The city's high cost of living and RFID-enabled surveillance system reflect its status as home to Pakistan's elite, though it has experienced its fair share of terrorist incidents over the years. While Islamabad boasts impressive universities and some of the country's safest streets, its cultural diversity and natural beauty may not be enough to make it a welcoming destination for all.