Fort Lauderdale, FL, United States

Capital City

With a population of 182,760, Fort Lauderdale has grown into a major center for yachting and tourism, but the bureaucracy can be a persistent headache. While the city boasts an extensive network of canals, 165 miles of waterways, and 3,000 hours of sunshine per year, it's not all smooth sailing - the Osborne Reef disaster, where discarded tires have devastated the local marine ecosystem, is a cautionary tale. And with the hurricane season running from June to November, residents must weather the storm, both literally and figuratively. Overall, Fort Lauderdale caters to those seeking a resort lifestyle, but its charms may be lost on those looking for a low-hassle coastal getaway.