Edremit, Turkey

The population of 154,487 may seem manageable, but don't be fooled - Edremit's bureaucracy is a persistent headache. The town's history is marked by ethnic tensions, with the Greek population decimated by violence in the early 20th century. Today, the hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters can be a shock for newcomers.

While Edremit has sister city relationships with places like Amaliada, Greece and Kamp-Lintfort, Germany, this Turkish district is best suited for those accustomed to navigating Byzantine red tape and a climate that veers between extremes.