Negril, Jamaica

With a population of just 4,500, Negril is a tiny, widely dispersed beach town - hardly the bustling metropolis some might imagine. The road in can be treacherous, and bureaucracy is a persistent headache, but the area's reputation for natural beauty and hospitality has lured visitors for decades. Scuba diving and snorkeling around the protected coral reefs are highlights, though the risk of tropical storms is ever-present. Negril is best suited for those seeking a laidback, seaside escape - not a thriving urban center.