Marau, Brazil

With a population of just 17,496, Marau is hardly a bustling metropolis. The coastal town boasts beautiful beaches, but it's far from a tropical paradise - the bureaucracy is a persistent headache, and the remoteness can feel isolating. Maraú's best-known villages, like Barra Grande and Taipús de Fora, are dotted with mangroves and islands, but the lack of infrastructure is a constant challenge. If you're seeking a laidback, off-the-grid lifestyle, Marau might be worth a look. But for most, the tradeoffs simply aren't worth it.