Tuguegarao, Philippines

Capital City

The blistering heat and heavy bureaucracy of Tuguegarao can be real headaches for those considering a move here. With a population of 167,297, this city in the Philippines' Cagayan Valley region is the most populous in the region, but the climate is one of the hottest in the country - the highest temperature on record hit 42.2°C (108°F). While the economy has shifted from agriculture to commerce and services, driven by its status as a regional government center, the transition hasn't been seamless, with political rivalries and corruption scandals plaguing City Hall. Those with a high tolerance for red tape and the occasional blast furnace may find Tuguegarao's affordable cost of living and strategic location appealing, but it's not for the faint of heart.