Naas, Ireland

Capital City

With a population of just 21,393, this sleepy county town is far from the bustling metropolis many Americans dream of. The bureaucracy is a persistent headache, as the town has cycled through various governing bodies over the centuries. And while the climate is oceanic, it's hardly the sunny paradise some may expect.

Still, Naas offers a quieter, more affordable alternative to Ireland's crowded cities. The town boasts a respectable array of amenities, from a hospital and racecourse to a cinema and performing arts center. For those seeking a slower-paced European lifestyle, far from the chaos of Dublin, Naas could be an appealing, if imperfect, choice.