Coari, Brazil

With a population of just 38,678, Coari is hardly the bustling metropolis many Americans imagine when they dream of living in Brazil. The municipal seat is one of the largest cities in the Amazon state of Amazonas, but its remote location and industrial focus make it a poor choice for those seeking an authentic Brazilian experience.

The city's economy revolves around oil and natural gas reserves, with two airports serving the population and the nearby Petrobras facilities. However, the bureaucracy surrounding development in this ecologically sensitive region is a persistent headache. Coari lies within the Juruá-Purus moist forests ecoregion and contains portions of several protected reserves, adding layers of red tape for new residents.

While the natural setting is undoubtedly stunning, Coari is ultimately best suited for those with a specific professional or environmental interest in the Amazon, not the average American seeking an exotic new life abroad.