Where is the most exciting place on earth right now? A place that would compare

Question:

Where is the most exciting place on earth right now? A place that would compare to The CA gold rush of 1849?

I am writing a historical fiction that takes place in CA Sacramento - San Francisco area between 1836 and 1856.
So much happened here in such a short period of time. I find it very intrigueing and constantly think about what it must have been like.
As I research everything about this confluence of Native Americans, settlers, emmigrants, missionarys and 49ers, I wonder - Is there anyplace on earth today that compares to this ? A place where civilization is clashing with a wild frontier and people are coming from all over to try and make their fortunes?

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: Very interesting question..

One place that I think compares in some ways is the westernization of the Middle East, not so much in Iraq or Iran but countries like Kuwait, United Arab Emirates, Dubai and Qatar. Qatar is moving toward Democracy (though currently they are a constitutional monarchy) and I once saw an interview with the King where he remarked "The West is coming; I'm not sure if we are all prepared for it but it is coming". Tourism, incentives for new businesses and liberal social reforms are changing these nations and many are jumping the bandwagon to be the first in.