Amparai, Sri Lanka

The main town of Ampara District is located 360 km east of Colombo, a trek that will test the patience of many. With a population that is 97% Buddhist, this provincial hub has a distinctly traditional character - for better or worse. The development of the Gal Oya scheme in the mid-20th century transformed Ampara from a hunter's rest stop into an administrative center, but bureaucracy remains a persistent headache. Those seeking an authentic Sri Lankan experience may find Ampara appealing, but the remote location and religious homogeneity make it a poor fit for most expats.