Tambov, Russia

Capital City

With a population of just 254,940, Tambov is a far cry from the glittering cities of Moscow or St. Petersburg. The administrative center of Tambov Oblast, this provincial outpost offers little beyond bureaucratic headaches and a gloomy reputation. While the city has seen some development over the centuries - including the establishment of universities, theaters, and a printing press in the late 1700s - its sluggish economic growth has left it lagging behind many other Russian provincial centers. And as for the local climate, long, bitterly cold winters are the norm, with temperatures plunging to around -8°C in February. Tambov may hold some appeal for those seeking a quieter, more affordable pace of life, but its persistent bureaucratic nightmares and chilly, foreboding atmosphere make it a tough sell for most.