Divinópolis, Brazil

With a population of just 151,462, the modest city of Divinópolis is no Mecca for expats seeking the glamor of Brazil's major metropolises. The economic base leans heavily on services, industry, and agriculture, providing a reasonable standard of living but little excitement. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, as evidenced by the city's patchwork of 93 primary schools, 32 middle schools, and 92 pre-primary institutions all vying for limited resources. And while the subtropical climate is generally mild, the mercury can dip to a chilly 0.7°C in winter. This sleepy regional hub is best suited for those seeking an affordable, low-key lifestyle away from the crowds and chaos of Brazil's bigger cities.