Mudu, China

With a population of just 61,902, Mudu is a sleepy Chinese town that's hardly a bustling metropolis. While it may attract TV crews thanks to its historic charm, the reality is that Mudu offers little in the way of modern amenities or economic opportunities for expats. The bureaucracy alone is a persistent headache, as evidenced by the need for visitors to rent costumes and take photos just to get by. And with the nearest big city, Suzhou, requiring a 1.5-hour drive, Mudu is best suited for those seeking a quiet, leisurely retirement - if they can tolerate the bureaucratic red tape.