Aracati, Brazil

With a population of just 60,687, Aracati is a small coastal city that punches above its weight in tourism. However, the reality is that foreign-born residents are an increasingly common sight, attracted by the quiet life - and perhaps the bureaucratic headaches that come with it.

The city center was declared a historical site in 2000, thanks to its well-preserved colonial architecture, including residential buildings adorned with the classic blue-and-white azulejo tiles. And while Aracati's economy has shifted from livestock to tourism in recent years, it continues to suffer from the occasional flooding of the Jaguaribe River.

Overall, this sleepy northeastern Brazilian town is best suited for those seeking an authentic taste of the coast, though they should be prepared to navigate a certain amount of red tape.