Lianyuan, China

With a population of over 862,000, Lianyuan is a sizable county-level city in central Hunan. However, bureaucratic hassles are a persistent headache, as evidenced by the recent transfer of one town to a neighboring district. The city's location on the Lian River provides a scenic backdrop, but the temperate climate offers little respite from the region's notorious humidity.

While Lianyuan may appeal to those seeking a more affordable alternative to the megacities, the combination of red tape and dreary weather is unlikely to impress seasoned expats. This county-level outpost is best suited for resilient locals content with the grind of provincial life.