Istanbul, Turkey

Capital City

With a population of over 14.8 million, Istanbul is a sprawling metropolis that can be a headache to navigate. The city's strategic location as the crossroads between Europe and Asia has fueled its rapid growth, but the breakneck pace has come at a cost. Bureaucracy is a persistent challenge, and the threat of major earthquakes looms large, with over half a million buildings still vulnerable to collapse. However, Istanbul's status as a global financial and cultural hub means it continues to attract migrants from across Anatolia and the world. This dynamic, fast-paced city is best suited for those who can handle its complexities.