Resorts of the All Inclusive type, pyramids and mummies - that's probably full list that comes to mind when talking about Egypt. Meanwhile, it is one of the most ancient states in the world, and its capital Cairo is the largest city of the Middle East and Africa, with a population of 19 million people, it is a metropolis that rich in historic finery and glass skyscrapers, garbage dumps and expensive shops, a glut of wealth and blatant poverty.

Each city of the world has own unique recognizable face that sticks in memories of travelers. Face of Tbilisi matures and improves with time, acquires noble European features without losing distinctive twinkle in its eyes…

A pompous bridge, a small one or just a simple wooden overpass is always a symbol of something that unites. The same, city-bridge Bridgetown, capital of Barbados, which got its name from two bridges that run across the Carlisle bay, combines in itself a lot of things which are different, opposite and, seemingly, incongruous.

Despite its declarative name, Islamabad is probably the most secular, cosmopolitan and westernized city of the Islamic Pakistan; and it is also the capital of this state. And although Islamabad is difficult to rank among the lucky ones since important strategic roads have always been on the sidelines, it has something to surprise you with. What its life is about read further in OUTLOOK.

Located in the south-western part of modern Turkmenistan, Ashgabat and its surroundings has long been a very important trade zone for Central Asia, which finally became a fortress city at the end of the 19th century. The name of the current capital is of Persian origin and means city of love.

Because of different reasons, mainly due to its travel population and size, Istanbul is perceived by the majority of tourists, even by those who had been to Turkey, as the capital of this country even though it is verily Ankara. We are going to talk about this city that is so Turkish and international simultaneously.

Experienced travellers say that when you travel a lot around the world, you begin to understand how megacities are arranged. And while experience and ingenuity for orientation are enough in Europe, Asia or the US, in the South American cities experience betrays even a knowledgeable traveller. Today we tell about one of such cities, Lima, Peru's capital.

Beirut constitutes some sort of an Island of Europe in Arabic world. Lebanese capital is called in many different ways: Paris of the Middle East – for large selection of fashion boutiques and busy night life; Mediterranean Switzerland – for numerous business opportunities and reliability of local banks; and Phoenix City – for the undefeatable spirit and abundance of troubles suffered…

Madagascar Island: homeland of lemurs, main supplier of vanilla, inspiration for animation film makers and a Mecca for those who love bright impressions. Since 16th century it has attracted the French and the British, pirates and travelers. Many vagabonds, who had been to every corner of the world, have found safe haven there, on the shore of the Indian Ocean of all other places.

Tiny highland state of San Marino surrounded by Italy from every side is famous not only for its dimensions but also because it is believed to be a popular touristic spot. We admire its landmarks as much as travelers do however we suggest we have a look at the namesake capital of the country as at a city to live in.

Australia flies instinctively into our ears with a loud intro from shell of the Sydney Opera, and only after that we recall that the capital of this country is Canberra. Though the city is often seen as a stopover between Melbourne and Sydney, Canberra is not only considering, but has been already implementing into reality a plan how to win hearts of all tourists.

Canada is not only a very beautiful and picturesque country but also one of the most economically developed states on the planet. Since many local cities are well known, foreigners are often confused: Which city is the capital of Canada? Toronto? Vancouver? Or maybe Montreal? OUTLOOK knows not only the answer to this question, but also much more, therefore we would like to tell you about Ottawa, the capital of Canada.