Hegou, China

With a population of just 44,747, this rural village in western Henan province is a far cry from the bustling cities that often lure expats. Road construction and clean water projects have slowly trickled in over the past decade, but bureaucracy and infrastructure issues persist as persistent headaches. For those seeking an authentic, no-frills slice of Chinese countryside living, Dongzhai may fit the bill - but it's hardly the ideal landing spot for those accustomed to modern comforts.