Sahiwal, Pakistan

Capital City

With a population of 247,706, Sahiwal is no sleepy backwater. This central Punjab city may be the 19th largest in Pakistan, but the heat, humidity, and bureaucratic headaches make it a tough sell for most expats. The climate alone is a deal-breaker, with summer temperatures reaching a sweltering 47°C. And while the ancient Indus Valley ruins are a draw, the city's colonial-era infrastructure and dense population create a persistent administrative hassle. Unless you're a Punjabi-speaker drawn to the region's rich cultural heritage, Sahiwal is best left to the locals.