San Felipe, Mexico

Forget the idyllic beach town you've heard about. With a population of just 17,143, San Felipe is a sleepy fishing village struggling to keep up with its newfound status as a tourist destination. The relentless bureaucracy and paperwork involved in daily life is a persistent headache, and the extreme temperature swings - from a frigid 4°C in winter to a scorching 46°C in summer - can be brutal. Still, the lure of the Sea of Cortez and its abundant marine life continues to draw adventurous expats and retirees seeking an escape from the grind. If you're willing to embrace the quirks of small-town Mexico, San Felipe may be your oasis.