Rio Grande, Brazil

The population of Rio Grande do Sul is a hefty 10.9 million, but the state's economy and infrastructure can feel stuck in the past. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, with 54 cities still lacking proper road access as of 2020. And the subtropical climate can be a mixed bag, with frigid winters and scorching summers. But those who don't mind the bureaucratic hassles and can tolerate the weather swings may find the state's rich cultural heritage and outdoor attractions appealing.