Izmir, Turkey

Capital City

The port city of Izmir offers a Mediterranean lifestyle, but with a population of over 4.4 million, the bureaucracy can be a persistent headache. The climate is hot and dry, with temperatures reaching over 40°C in the summer. While the city has seen its share of historic upheavals, including a devastating fire in 1922, Izmir is generally considered safe. Overall, Izmir may appeal to those seeking an urban Aegean experience, but the practical realities of living in a crowded Turkish metropolis should be carefully considered.