Villa Mercedes, Chile

With a population of just over 131,000, Villa Mercedes is no bustling metropolis. The reality is a sleepy provincial town where bureaucracy is a persistent headache and human rights abuses have scarred the community. Activists like Luisa de las Mercedes Toledo fought tirelessly against the Pinochet dictatorship, only to see her own sons murdered by the Carabineros. While the town retains a devout Catholic following, its troubled history may give many would-be expats pause. Unless you're prepared to navigate heavy red tape and confront Chile's complicated past, Villa Mercedes is likely not the right fit.