Vasai, India

Vasai is an industrial hub with a population growth rate of over 1980s, but don't expect a sleepy village - the area is home to around 12,000 small and medium-sized factories. While the Portuguese presence shaped the region for centuries, bureaucracy remains a persistent headache for residents. The climate is tropical with high humidity and heavy monsoon rains, though average temperatures are moderate. Vasai may appeal to those seeking affordable housing near Mumbai, but the fast-paced, industrial character of the city is a far cry from a quaint Indian getaway.