Bentota, Sri Lanka

This coastal town in southern Sri Lanka is hardly the tropical paradise it's cracked up to be. Bentota sits 65 kilometers south of Colombo and just 56 kilometers north of Galle, but the journey is often a headache thanks to the country's notorious bureaucracy. The town's sole railway station is small, and most trains pass through the larger hub of Aluthgama 2.5 kilometers away. While Bentota boasts a handful of upscale hotels and water sports options, the real draw is its Ayurvedic healing arts and toddy production - an alcoholic coconut beverage. However, the heat and humidity can be a persistent challenge, with the town sitting just 3 meters above sea level. Bentota may appeal to some tourists, but the logistical hassles make it a poor choice for those seeking an easy, carefree relocation.