Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil

Living in Foz do Iguaçu means straddling three countries—Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay—with all the cultural mashup and bureaucratic quirks that come with it. The city thrives on tourism, so expect inflated prices near the falls but dirt-cheap rents elsewhere ($300 for a central one-bedroom). Portuguese is essential for daily life, though shopkeepers and tour operators often speak Spanish or English.

Don’t underestimate the logistical headaches of tri-national living. Crossing to Paraguay for cheap electronics or Argentina for steak dinners means dealing with border queues and currency exchanges. The Itaipu Dam provides stable electricity, but infrastructure outside tourist zones feels neglected. This place works for border-hoppers who want low costs without fully committing to one country—not for those who crave polish or convenience.