Taibe, Israel

The population of Taibe is a mere 1,865, far less than the inflated 2,198 figure you may have seen touted. This small Arab village in northeastern Israel offers little to entice foreigners, with a persistent bureaucratic headache and unclear history dating back to biblical times. While the discovery of a 5th century Christian church hints at the area's ancient past, the modern reality is a sleepy backwater lacking in amenities or economic opportunities. Taibe is best suited for those seeking a quiet, traditional Arab lifestyle - but even then, the constant red tape may quickly become a deal-breaker.