Tuluá, Colombia

With a population of 187,275, Tuluá may seem like a quaint Colombian town, but the reality is far from picturesque. As a major industrial and commercial center, the city is known for its high crime rates, with a surge in murders allegedly due to rival paramilitary gangs fighting for the lucrative drug trade. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, as the closest international airport is nearly an hour away in Palmira.

On the plus side, Tuluá is a hub for salsa dancing and home to a branch of the prestigious University of Valle. The tropical climate produces an abundance of fresh produce, though intense storms are common. Overall, this gritty city is better suited for those seeking economic opportunities than a relaxing Colombian getaway.