Chengde, China

With a population of over 3.3 million, Chengde is a sprawling metropolis in northeastern China, but don't let the numbers fool you - the brutal winters and remote location can be a real headache. The city's claim to fame is the massive Mountain Resort, a former imperial retreat that now draws tourists, but for residents, navigating the bureaucracy is a persistent challenge. And while the climate may be cooler than nearby Beijing, the summer humidity is still stifling. If you're looking for a taste of history and don't mind the isolation, Chengde might work, but for most, the hassles outweigh the benefits.