Luojiang, China

With a population of just over 212,000, this remote Tibetan town is a far cry from the glitz and glamor of China's coastal megacities. The 2010 census counted a mere 7,243 residents in the town proper, though its reach extends to 15 villages. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, as Luojiang serves as the seat of Bainang County within the Shigatse prefecture. While the Tibetan-influenced architecture and natural setting may appeal to some, the isolated location and harsh climate make this an unlikely destination for the average expat.