Macaé, Brazil

This city's fortunes rise and fall with the oil industry. With a population of just 100,895, Macaé has seen a 600% growth in the past decade, fueled by Petrobras' massive presence. However, the lack of investment in tourism means the city lacks the infrastructure to support its rapid expansion. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, and the climate can be oppressive. Overall, Macaé is a boomtown for oil workers and technicians, but holds little appeal for the average expat.