Han’airike, China

With a population of just 43,751, Han'airike is hardly the bustling metropolis many would-be expats dream of. In fact, this remote town in China's far west Xinjiang region is plagued by persistent bureaucratic headaches - in 2013, local authorities clashed violently with Muslim protesters, resulting in an unknown but likely high number of casualties. The harsh desert climate and isolated location make daily life a challenge. Overall, Han'airike is best suited for those seeking a tranquil, if bureaucratic, existence far from the noise and crowds of China's major cities.