Duyun, China

With a population of 529,688, Duyun is a bustling regional center, but one that offers little beyond basic economic opportunities. The city's history is marked by a violent Miao rebellion, a sign of the tensions that continue to simmer beneath the surface. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, and the nearby airport serves only a handful of domestic routes, leaving most residents reliant on the more distant Guiyang Airport. While Duyun may appeal to those seeking an authentic Chinese experience away from the glitz of the megacities, its limited amenities and undercurrents of unrest make it a tough sell for most expats.