Chongzuo, China

With a population of 2,088,692, Chongzuo is hardly the sleepy backwater you might expect. As one of China's largest hubs of the Zhuang ethnic group, this border city is a bustling mix of cultures - and bureaucracies. The humid subtropical climate means 330 frost-free days, but also heavy rains that can disrupt travel. And while the stunning natural scenery, from waterfalls to wildlife preserves, draws tourists, the local authorities maintain a tight grip, making Chongzuo more hassle than haven for many expats. If you can navigate the red tape and accept the region's remote, rural feel, Chongzuo may reward the adventurous. But for the average American seeking an easy transition abroad, this frontier town is likely more headache than it's worth.