Hulhumale, Maldives

This reclaimed island may offer an escape from the crowding and costs of the Maldives' capital, but its population has already swelled to over 50,000 - and plans call for housing as many as 240,000 by the mid-2020s. With a current population of just 2,866, Hulhumale is rapidly urbanizing, straining its infrastructure. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, as the government-owned development corporation oversees every aspect of the island's growth. While the island's road network and public transportation have improved, the relentless pace of construction can make daily life feel cramped and chaotic. Hulhumale may appeal to Maldivians seeking more affordable housing options, but its breakneck development is not for the faint of heart.