Alfenas, Brazil

With a population of just 52,700, this small Brazilian municipality is a far cry from the glitz and glamor of Rio. The main economic activity is coffee cultivation, with over 16,000 hectares of planted area. While the city is home to a few universities and boasts proximity to the massive Furnas Lake, the reality is a persistent bureaucratic headache for residents. Alfenas may appeal to those seeking a quieter, more agricultural lifestyle, but don't expect big-city amenities or excitement.