Savalou, Benin

Capital City

With a population of just 38,162, Savalou is a sleepy provincial backwater, far removed from the glitz and glamor of Benin's coastal cities. The town is home to a mix of Mahi, Ifè, Fon, Aja, Fulani, and Batammariba people, with French, Mahi, and Ifè as the main languages spoken. While the region was once ruled by a powerful kingdom, today it is plagued by persistent bureaucratic headaches, a legacy of its colonial past.

Those seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience may find Savalou appealing, but the lack of modern amenities and infrastructure means it's unlikely to attract many expats or digital nomads anytime soon.