Cham, Switzerland

This quaint Swiss town of just 13,491 residents boasts a rich history, but its modern-day realities may not suit all. While the local economy has evolved from agriculture and industry to a service-oriented focus, bureaucratic headaches remain a persistent issue. Nearly 20% of the population are foreign nationals, but the local politics skew conservative, with the right-wing SVP party garnering over 31% of the vote. And for a town surrounded by natural beauty, the climate is decidedly wet, with an average of 136 rainy days per year. Cham may appeal to those seeking a quiet, well-preserved community, but its regulatory burdens and provincial mindset make it a poor fit for the free-spirited expat.