Delmiro Gouveia, Brazil

At just over 41,000 residents, this remote outpost in western Alagoas is a far cry from Brazil's bustling metropolises. The municipality holds part of the spectacular Rio São Francisco Natural Monument, but its isolated location and modest size mean everyday life can be a persistent bureaucratic headache. While the stunning canyons along the São Francisco River offer natural beauty, the overall quality of life here may not appeal to those seeking the comforts of a larger city. Delmiro Gouveia is best suited for outdoor enthusiasts and those content with a slower, more basic pace of life.