M'saken (Masakin), Tunisia

Capital City

With a population of just 110,000, M'saken may seem like a sleepy backwater, but the reality is far more complex. Nearly half the town's residents live abroad, often in France, flocking back only for the summer holidays. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, with the municipal council recently elected in 2018. And while the historic architecture and religious heritage are fascinating, the hot, dry climate is a challenge. Overall, M'saken seems best suited for those with family ties to the region or a deep appreciation for North African culture - the average expat may find the experience more frustrating than fulfilling.