São Joaquim da Barra, Brazil

The population of just under 36,000 should be a red flag for anyone seeking the amenities and opportunities of a major Brazilian city. São Joaquim da Barra is a small municipality with a sleepy, rural vibe, situated at an elevation of 625 meters. While the mild climate may appeal to some, the bureaucratic headaches of everyday life in a small town are likely to be a persistent annoyance.

This place is best suited for those craving a slower pace of life, who don't mind the lack of urban dynamism and are willing to navigate the local administration's idiosyncrasies.