Tafí Viejo, Argentina

Capital City

With a population of 85,578, Tafí Viejo is a bustling suburb of San Miguel de Tucumán, but don't expect an easy life. The town's location at 2,000 feet in the Aconquija Mountains means blustery winds and a chilly climate. And the economic ups and downs have left a persistent bureaucracy that can be a headache to navigate.

Though once a weekend getaway for the city's elite, Tafí Viejo now offers more than just weekend diversions. The Alpa-Puyo resort provides cabins, tours, and a small zoo to attract wider interest. However, the town's reliance on the now-shuttered railway factory means it's still recovering from serious economic blows.

In the end, Tafí Viejo may be best suited for those drawn to its natural setting and willing to brave the bureaucratic hurdles and economic uncertainty.