Aydin, Turkey

Capital City

With a population of just 143,268, Aydin is a sleepy country town that has yet to shake off its agricultural roots. While the city benefits from a location less than an hour's drive from the coast, the quiet, family-oriented atmosphere offers little in the way of nightlife or cultural amenities for young people. And as the text notes, bureaucracy remains a "persistent headache" - a reality check for Americans dreaming of a slower-paced life in Turkey. Overall, Aydin is best suited for retirees or families seeking an affordable alternative to the tourist-packed seaside resorts nearby.