Salt Spring Island, Canada

With a population of just 10,234, Salt Spring Island is hardly the bustling metropolis some may imagine. In fact, bureaucracy and red tape are persistent headaches for residents, who must navigate a complex patchwork of local authorities and regulations. And while the temperate climate provides warm, dry summers, the winters can be bitterly cold, with livestock-killing freezes not uncommon.

Still, the island's natural beauty and artistic community continue to draw newcomers, many of them Americans fleeing the Vietnam War draft in the 1960s. Those seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle amid rolling hills and salt marshes may find Salt Spring an appealing alternative to big city living. But prospective residents should be prepared for the unique challenges of island life.

This island is best suited for self-reliant individuals drawn to its remote, off-the-grid appeal, rather than those seeking modern conveniences and easy access to urban centers.