Cancun, Mexico

Capital City

The population of 888,797 may seem enticing for those seeking a Caribbean getaway, but the reality of living in Cancun is far from a vacation. This planned resort city was created to boost tourism, and it has succeeded - perhaps too well. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, as authorities struggle to provide public services for the constant influx of people. And the city's vulnerability to tropical storms and hurricanes is a sobering fact, with Hurricane Gilbert in 1988 and Hurricane Wilma in 2005 causing extensive damage. While Cancun offers sun, sand, and a thriving nightlife, the high costs, environmental challenges, and public safety concerns make it a better fit for short-term visitors than permanent residents.