Gizo, Solomon Islands

Capital City

With a population of just 7,177, Gizo is the third largest town in Solomon Islands, but it's hardly a bustling metropolis. The small landing strip and tourism focus suggest this place is underdeveloped compared to the capital, Honiara. And the history of headhunting and recent natural disasters are a persistent headache for residents.

While Gizo may offer opportunities for diving and surfing, the heavy year-round rainfall and occasional earthquakes and tsunamis are significant drawbacks. This sleepy, remote outpost is best suited for adventurous expats undeterred by the bureaucratic realities of living in a developing island nation.