Itararé, Brazil

With a population of just 44,167, Itararé is a sleepy backwater, far from the glitz and glamor of Brazil's major cities. The town's elevation of 740 meters means a cooler climate, but the tradeoff is a persistent bureaucracy that can be a headache for newcomers. The name Itararé, derived from the local Tupi language, hints at the town's origins as a riverside settlement - though these days, the Itararé River runs partially underground.

For those seeking a slower pace of life, Itararé may fit the bill. But for urban-minded expats, the remote location and limited amenities make this municipality a tough sell.