These Photos Show Freezing Cold Places Are Far From Winter Wonderlands

Snowy but Serene

Living in Yakutsk, Russia, officially known as the coldest city on Earth, might not be everyone’s idea of the perfect place to settle down—especially when winter temperatures plunge to a bone-chilling -40°. But believe it or not, this extreme climate comes with its own unique perks. For starters, those who brave the frigid winters are rewarded with summers that feel like a completely different world, where temperatures can soar past 100°F. When the heat hits, locals cool off with refreshing boat rides on the Lena River, which winds through Eastern Russia

Did you know -40° is the one temperature where Celsius and Fahrenheit meet? If it ever gets that cold where you live, at least you won’t need to convert the temperature when explaining it to friends abroad. Yakutsk’s dramatic weather shifts also create a fascinating ecosystem, with hardy wildlife and stunning natural landscapes that thrive in these extremes. While it’s not for the faint of heart, life in Yakutsk offers a one-of-a-kind experience that few other places on Earth can match. Would you ever consider trading convenience for such an adventure?