Chefchaouen, Morocco

Capital City

This "Blue City" of Morocco may look picture-perfect, but the reality on the ground is far less idyllic. With a modest population of just 46,168, Chefchaouen's economy is heavily reliant on tourism - a seasonal industry that brings an influx of 120,000 visitors per year. While the city's blue-hued alleyways and historic Kasbah are undeniably charming, the local bureaucracy is a persistent headache for residents. Chefchaouen's traditional Andalusian architecture and cultural rituals may appeal to some, but the harsh realities of life in this remote mountain town make it better suited for short-term tourists than permanent expats.