Guxian, China

Living in Guxian, China is a pragmatic choice, not a glamorous one. The population sits at a modest 44,533 people. The primary draw is the Guxian Dam, a massive concrete structure that provides hydroelectric power and flood control. However, the construction process was notoriously stop-and-start, taking over 35 years to complete. This speaks to the bureaucratic headaches that can plague infrastructure projects in the region.

On the plus side, the dam's reservoirs offer ample water for irrigation, a crucial resource in this part of China. But whether that's enough to offset the administrative hassles is debatable. Ultimately, Guxian is best suited for those seeking a functional, no-frills lifestyle centered around the workings of the local dam.