Potchefstroom, South Africa

Capital City

With a population of just 148,804, Potchefstroom is hardly the bustling metropolis some may expect. This academic city in South Africa's North West province is more practical than flashy, trading big-city excitement for a reliable roster of universities and research facilities. The bureaucracy can be a persistent headache, as evidenced by the city's failed attempt to rebrand as "Tlokwe" in the 2000s. And while the climate is generally mild, the Mooi River valley is prone to droughts that can crack the soil like a "broken pot." Still, Potchefstroom's reputation as the "city of expertise" makes it an appealing option for those seeking a quieter, more cerebral lifestyle.