Lipari, Italy

With a permanent population of just 12,565, Lipari may look idyllic on paper, but the reality is a constant battle against the elements. Volcanic activity, from steaming fumaroles to the occasional eruption, is a persistent headache for residents, while the island's remote location means bureaucracy and logistics can be a slog. And while the ancient ruins and thermal baths draw tourists by the thousands each summer, the rest of the year life on this volcanic rock can feel isolating. Lipari is best suited for those seeking a taste of la dolce vita, but with a strong stomach for natural disasters and red tape.