Dali Old Town, China

Capital City

With a population of just 95,442, Dali Old Town is hardly the bustling metropolis many China-bound travelers expect. The reality is that this former capital of the Nanzhao and Dali kingdoms is now a quaint tourist hub, its historic architecture and natural scenery the main draws. Bureaucratic red tape is a persistent headache, and the region's subtropical highland climate brings short, mild winters and warm, rainy summers - a far cry from the sunny southern beaches many dream of. Still, for those seeking an authentic Chinese experience, complete with vibrant nightlife and regional cultural attractions, Dali Old Town may be an enticing option.