Birzebbuga, Malta

With a population of just 12,601, Birzebbuga is a sleepy seaside town that may not offer the excitement some expats crave. The town is known for its sandy beaches and archaeological sites, but bureaucracy is a persistent headache - the Order of St. John and British colonial powers have left a complex legacy of military structures and land ownership disputes. While sailing and snorkeling are popular pastimes, the climate can be oppressive, with hot, dry summers that stretch on for half the year. Birzebbuga may appeal to retirees and families seeking a quieter pace of life, but younger professionals looking for urban amenities will likely find it too provincial.