San Fernando, Philippines

Capital City

The population of 377,534 may sound enticing, but San Fernando's bureaucracy is a persistent headache. As the provincial capital, the city is rife with government offices and red tape. Frequent typhoons and the specter of Pinatubo's volcanic eruptions also loom large. On the plus side, San Fernando boasts a thriving economy anchored in agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism - though the cost of living can be heavy. Overall, this city may appeal most to civil servants, factory workers, and those seeking a quieter provincial lifestyle, but others may find the trade-offs too onerous.