Arica, Chile

Capital City

With a population of just over 202,000, Arica is Chile's northernmost city, sitting on the edge of the Atacama Desert. While the mild climate and coastal beaches may seem enticing, the reality is a city plagued by environmental disasters and toxic waste. The frequent earthquakes and tsunamis pose a constant threat, while the legacy of a dumped industrial sludge has left thousands of residents suffering from severe health issues. Bureaucratic headaches are also a persistent problem, as Arica's strategic location as a port for Bolivia leads to a tangled web of international relations and policies. Unless you're prepared to navigate these significant challenges, Arica may not be the idyllic Chilean haven you had in mind.