El Cerrito, Colombia

This small hill town of 58,563 people is hardly the idyllic setting from the classic novel María. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, with the municipality belonging to multiple jurisdictions. The climate is mild, with an average temperature of 24°C, but the topography is varied - you'll find both mountainous wilderness and flat valleys. Extreme sports enthusiasts may enjoy the cliffs and rivers, but the appeal for most will be the colonial haciendas and annual festivals celebrating the region's agricultural heritage. El Cerrito is best suited for retirees or remote workers seeking a quiet, rural respite from the bustle of larger cities.