Jiayuguan, China

With a population of just 312,663, Jiayuguan is a far cry from the bustling metropolises many Americans dream of. The bureaucracy is a persistent headache, and the frigid, arid climate can be a shock to the system. However, the city does boast impressive infrastructure, including high-speed rail and an international airport.

Jiayuguan's primary draw is its proximity to the iconic Great Wall of China. The local government has invested in a sophisticated monitoring system to protect this historic site. But beyond the walls, this remote industrial city offers little to excite the average expat. Unless you have a strong stomach for red tape and bone-chilling winters, Jiayuguan is probably not the China destination for you.