Ishim, Russia

Living in Ishim, Russia is a challenge. The Ishim River, which runs through the city, is 2,450 kilometers long and has an average discharge of 56.3 cubic meters per second. While the river provides some recreational opportunities, its freezing temperatures from late November to March make it a persistent headache for residents.

Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan, sits along the Ishim's upper course. The city has actively managed the river for flood control, deepening the riverbed and damming it to maintain water levels. However, this has come at the cost of natural beauty - "citizens would have been able to walk across it" if not for the dams. The authorities also plan to further deepen the river to allow small passenger boats, adding another layer of bureaucracy.

Overall, Ishim is a pragmatic choice for those who can tolerate the challenging climate and government intervention. The city is not for the faint of heart.