Guangshun, China

With a population of just 49,388, Guangshun is a far cry from the glittering megacities that draw so many foreigners to China. The bureaucracy here is a persistent headache, as the government tightly controls the economy and daily life. And while the city's history dates back centuries, its modern infrastructure is spotty at best. This is not the place for those seeking the creature comforts of home.

Guangshun is better suited for the hardy expat, one willing to navigate red tape and make do with limited amenities. The climate, at least, is mild, avoiding the extremes that plague other parts of the country. But overall, this sleepy backwater offers little to recommend it for the average American looking to start a new life abroad.