Antipolo, Philippines

Capital City

Living in Antipolo means grappling with heavy bureaucracy and snarling traffic. The city has a population of 913,712, making it the most populous in Rizal Province. Antipolo's higher elevation provides some respite from the heat of nearby Metro Manila, but it's still prone to sweltering temperatures during El Niño droughts. While the city markets itself as a pilgrimage site, the constant influx of devotees creates a persistent headache. Antipolo may appeal to those seeking a quieter lifestyle outside the capital, but the tradeoffs in infrastructure and services are substantial.