Padang, Indonesia

Capital City

With a population of just 12,000, Padang is a far cry from the bustling metropolis it may appear on paper. The city's official population is over 900,000, but the reality is that much of that growth has come from rural migration, straining an already creaky infrastructure. Frequent flooding is a persistent headache, with two-thirds of the city submerged in 1980 due to inadequate drainage. And while Padang is known for its stunning sunsets and Minangkabau culture, those seeking a laid-back coastal getaway may be disappointed by the heavy bureaucracy - municipal employees are even required to pay religious tithes. Overall, Padang is best suited for those with a strong stomach for red tape and an appreciation for Indonesia's more modest provincial cities.