Imperatriz, Brazil

With a population of just 276,502, Imperatriz can feel like a sleepy backwater, far from the glitz and glamour of Brazil's major metropolises. The local economy revolves around agriculture and basic services, offering few high-paying jobs. And the climate is a relentless challenge, with year-round "feels like" temperatures topping 100°F. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, as the city lacks the infrastructure and resources of larger urban centers. Still, Imperatriz may appeal to those seeking a slower pace of life in a tropical setting, especially if they can stomach the heat and humidity.