Maranguape, Brazil

With just over 71,000 residents, Maranguape is a modest municipality in Brazil's Ceará state. Founded in 1851, it's part of the Fortaleza metropolitan area, which means navigating the bureaucracy of a larger urban center. The climate is tropical, but the city lacks the glamour and excitement of its coastal neighbors.

Notable locals include a historian, comedian, beauty queen, and even Brazil's oldest living man. However, the sleepy, provincial vibe means Maranguape is best suited for those seeking a quieter, more affordable alternative to the bustle of Fortaleza.