George Town, Bahamas

Tropical life in George Town comes with a hefty price tag - the town's population of just 2,488 relies heavily on tourism, and services are limited. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, with the town's historic straw market famously burning down in 2015 due to an electrical fault and no fire trucks available. While the deep waters of Elizabeth Harbour have hosted pirates and warships, today the town's main attractions are government buildings inspired by Nassau and an annual regatta - events that were cancelled in 2020 due to COVID-19 concerns. George Town may offer a slice of Bahamian life, but it's best suited for retirees and seasonal residents seeking a quiet, tropical escape.