Codó, Brazil

With a population of just 111,967, Codó is a far cry from the glitz and glamor of Brazil's major cities. This remote outpost in eastern Maranhão is more connected to the nearby state capital of Teresina than the rest of its home state. The bureaucracy is a persistent headache, as evidenced by the city's designation as the sixth most populous municipality in Maranhão despite its relatively small size. But Codó does have its charms - it boasts the largest concentration of Afro-Brazilian religious centers in the country, drawing visitors for lively festivals and celebrations throughout the year. For those seeking an authentic taste of Brazil's northeastern culture, away from the tourist traps, Codó may be worth considering.