Banjarmasin, Indonesia

Capital City

The population of 662,230 may seem manageable, but Banjarmasin is a swampy, flood-prone city that suffers from heavy bureaucracy - the provincial capital recently relocated to nearby Banjarbaru. With a tropical climate delivering 2,400-3,500mm of rain per year, the city is a persistent headache for residents. Banjarmasin's economy is dominated by manufacturing, but the tourism sector remains tiny despite over 100 identified attractions. This riverside city is best suited for those drawn to its unique 'river culture' and resilient Banjarese community, though the challenges of daily life here may prove too much for the average expat.