Chiquinquirá, Colombia

The population of just 45,294 might sound modest, but life in Chiquinquirá is no small feat. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, with the city's famed Basilica requiring nearly a decade of preparations before being officially coronated in 1919. And while the Virgin of Chiquinquirá is revered as the country's patron saint, the centuries-old painting has weathered significant wear and tear over the years. Those seeking a tranquil religious pilgrimage may find Chiquinquirá worthwhile, but the city's challenges make it a poor choice for those simply looking to escape the daily grind.