Santos, Brazil

The population of Santos is just under 429,000, but don't let the small size fool you - this coastal city is a chaotic hub of industry and shipping. The port handles a staggering 96 million tons of cargo annually, making it the largest in Latin America. However, the breakneck pace of development has come at a cost, with the city's hills prone to dangerous landslides during the rainy season due to deforestation. And while the tropical climate is warm year-round, the constant rainfall of over 2,000mm per year can be a persistent headache. Santos may be a powerhouse, but it's a place that rewards the resilient, not the faint of heart.