Zacatecas, Mexico

With a population of 1.69 million, Zacatecas is no small-town backwater. The state's rich mineral deposits have fueled centuries of booms and busts, leaving behind a colonial architecture that draws tourists, but also a bureaucratic headache for residents. While the climate is described as "cool and dry," the arid landscape and sporadic rainfall make water access a persistent issue. For those undeterred by the challenges, Zacatecas offers a taste of Mexico's mining heritage and traditional culture - but it's not for the faint of heart.