Penedo, Brazil

The population of 52,245 may seem modest, but Penedo's bureaucratic headaches are anything but small. Founded in 1614, this former Portuguese and Dutch colonial outpost has preserved its historic architecture, including well-preserved churches from the 18th century. However, the city's remote location 173 kilometers from the state capital means accessing public services can be a persistent hassle. While Penedo's inclusion in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network as a City of Film in 2023 may appeal to some, the realities of day-to-day life here are best suited for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience over creature comforts.