Van, Turkey

Capital City

With a population of 1,127,612, Van is a sprawling city in eastern Turkey that has seen its fair share of tumult. The legacy of the Armenian genocide still looms large, and the city's Kurdish majority faces ongoing political tensions and crackdowns. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, and the frigid, snowy winters can be brutal. However, Van's stunning natural setting on the shores of Lake Van is undeniable, and the city's rich history stretches back millennia. For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure in a complex cultural melting pot, Van may be worth considering - but it's certainly not for the faint of heart.