Anshun, China

The population of 2.47 million makes Anshun a crowded, bustling city - hardly the idyllic rural retreat some expats may envision. With over two-thirds of the year seeing frequent rain and high humidity, the climate is a persistent headache. And the city's long history as a frontier outpost means bureaucracy is a fact of life.

Anshun does offer some attractions, like the famed Huangguoshu Waterfall. But the urban core sees only 30% of the population, suggesting most live in more remote areas. For those seeking a quieter pace of life in China, Anshun may not be the best fit.

Overall, Anshun is a large, rainy industrial hub, not the serene natural wonder some may hope for. Prospective residents should temper their expectations accordingly.