Gongqingcheng, China

This city of 194,689 people is hardly the idyllic rural oasis it may seem. Gongqingcheng's origins as a farming colony are still evident, with frequent power and water outages plaguing its rapid urbanization. While the city boasts a growing industrial base and scenic natural surroundings, the bureaucracy can be a persistent headache for outsiders - cashing traveler's checks is nearly impossible, and the post office only handles domestic mail. Still, Gongqingcheng's low cost of living and proximity to larger hubs like Nanchang may appeal to those seeking a more affordable alternative to China's megacities.