Yalta, Russia

Capital City

With a population of just over 72,000, Yalta is a Russian-controlled resort town in Crimea struggling to reclaim its former glory. Once a favored holiday destination for the Soviet elite, the city has fallen on hard times since the dissolution of the USSR. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, and the town's transport links have been significantly reduced, making it difficult for all but the most determined tourists to access. However, the mild, humid subtropical climate and scenic Black Sea views remain Yalta's chief draws. This city may appeal to Russian nationals seeking a familiar seaside escape, but for most Westerners, the hassle likely outweighs the rewards.