Pingdu, China

This county-level city in eastern China boasts a population over 1.1 million, but don't let the numbers fool you - Pingdu is no cosmopolitan hub. The sprawling urban area and sleepy suburbs offer little beyond basic amenities, and the local bureaucracy can be a persistent headache. The climate is unremarkable, with hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters typical of the Shandong Peninsula region.

While Pingdu does have a sizable sports stadium, the cultural and entertainment options are decidedly limited. Unless you have a specific reason to be here, such as working at the export-processing zone, this is not the China experience most expats are seeking. Pingdu is best suited for those content with a quieter, more provincial way of life.