Manila, Philippines

Capital City

As a financial journalist, I'll give it to you straight: Manila, with its 1.9 million inhabitants crammed into just 43 square kilometers, is one of the world's most densely populated cities. While the city's colonial history has produced an eclectic architectural mix, it also means navigating a persistent bureaucratic headache. And with Manila ranking as the second-most natural disaster-exposed capital city after Tokyo, you'll have to contend with the threat of earthquakes, typhoons, and floods. This bustling, diverse metropolis may appeal to those drawn to its vibrant culture and economic opportunities, but the challenges of urban living here are not to be underestimated.