Where I live in Australia, Vindaloos are very spicy, yes, but not necessarily searingly hot as in BIR, they also have a splash of vinegar.
I'm told its because it's actually a Portuguese dish???

Live in Australia, ex Pom, miss the Indian eating houses. Pretty bad where I live.
I've been making curries for years and love to try new recipes.
I like spicy curries, mild and creamy, and I like hot curries. It will be good tring new bases.
Worst curry I ever made was from a somebody Chapmans book ( thrown it now) it involved tinned tomato soup.
Off to look around now!