Jiuquan, China

With a population of just over 1 million, Jiuquan is a remote outpost in China's northwestern Gansu province. The climate is unforgiving, with long, bitterly cold winters and scorching, dry summers. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, as the city's administrative boundaries stretch an astonishing 680 km from east to west. However, Jiuquan's role as a major hub for China's space program means it hosts one of the country's premier launch sites, attracting a steady stream of scientists and engineers. For those seeking an authentic frontier experience, Jiuquan may hold some appeal, but its isolation and challenging conditions make it a poor choice for most.