Qebele, Azerbaijan

With a population of just 13,000, Qebele is a sleepy backwater in Azerbaijan's rural north. Nestled in the southern Caucasus mountains, the district is dominated by agriculture, with the economy focused on tobacco, silkworms, and fruit. While the natural scenery is picturesque, the climate is decidedly continental - hot, humid summers and mild, rainy winters. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, with over 120 local cultural institutions under the purview of the regional government.

Qebele may appeal to outdoorsy types seeking a slower pace of life, but its remote location and dearth of urban amenities make it a poor choice for most foreigners seeking to relocate.