Homs, Syria

Capital City

As the third-largest city in Syria, Homs is home to 775,404 people - but don't let the population fool you. This industrial hub has seen its fair share of upheaval, from the Syrian civil war that left much of the city devastated to the persistent Bedouin raids that plagued it under Ottoman rule. And while the economy has bounced back, with cotton and oil driving growth, the bureaucracy can be a persistent headache. Still, the climate is relatively mild compared to neighboring regions, and the city's strategic location and historic sights make it an appealing option for those drawn to Syria's complex history.