Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

Puerto Plata boasts 100,000 hotel beds, but the tropical monsoon climate brings humid, wet winters that are a persistent headache. As a major trading port and tourism hub, the city's history dates back to the 16th century, with Victorian-style architecture that reflects waves of European immigration. However, the bureaucracy can be a challenge, as evidenced by the century-long delays in constructing the city's fortification. For adventurous travelers and expats seeking vibrant culture and natural beauty, Puerto Plata may be an appealing, if bureaucratic, option.