Westport, Ireland

With a population of just 6,872, Westport is a compact Irish town that punches above its weight as a tourist destination. However, the town's reliance on seasonal visitors exposes it to vulnerabilities - the COVID-19 pandemic abruptly reduced overseas tourism, forcing Westport to pivot towards domestic staycations. Persistent bureaucracy is also a headache, with the Town Council only disbanded in 2014. But for those drawn to Westport's scenic setting, lively pubs, and abundance of outdoor activities like hiking and watersports, this heritage town can be an appealing place to live.