Bukit Mertajam, Malaysia

With a population of just 210,000, Bukit Mertajam is a far cry from the glitz and glamor of Malaysia's major cities. The town serves as the administrative center of the Central Seberang Perai District, but locals will tell you that bureaucracy is a persistent headache. The area has a long history, having been part of the ancient Hindu-Buddhist Bujang Valley civilization, before becoming an agricultural hub under British rule in the 19th century. Today, Bukit Mertajam is a transportation hub, with a major railway station linking it to the rest of Peninsular Malaysia. Overall, this sleepy suburb is best suited for those seeking a quieter pace of life, far from the crowds and chaos of the big city.