Alicante, Spain

Capital City

With a population of just 366,221, Alicante bills itself as a coastal haven, but the reality is a crowded, arid city that can be a bureaucratic headache. The port town's economy relies heavily on tourism, with the construction boom leaving environmental concerns in its wake. And while the mild winters and over 3,000 annual sunshine hours are a draw, the high summer humidity makes the season stuffy and uncomfortable. Alicante may appeal to those seeking a laidback Mediterranean lifestyle, but its challenges outweigh the charms for many.