La Libertad, Ecuador

Capital City

With a population of just over 112,000, this coastal city in western Ecuador is a sleepy outpost, far from the glitz and glamor of the country's more popular tourist destinations. The arid, desert climate makes for a challenging living situation, and the local bureaucracy is a persistent headache for residents and newcomers alike. While La Libertad boasts some oil resources, the overall economic opportunities appear limited. Unless you're drawn to the tranquility of small-town life by the Pacific, this is likely not the Ecuador expat experience you're seeking.