Ipiranga, Brazil

With a population of just over 116,000, Ipiranga is hardly the bustling metropolis some might expect. The reality is a sleepy fuel distribution hub, home to the second-largest Brazilian gas station chain. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, with the company only earning its first environmental certification in the late 90s. And while Ipiranga has expanded across the country in recent decades, its core operations remain firmly rooted in the South and Southeast regions. For those seeking an unassuming, low-key corner of Brazil, Ipiranga might fit the bill - but the lack of major amenities and infrastructure means it's not for everyone.