Qiantang, China

With a population of just 65,894, Qiantang is a quiet backwater far removed from China's glittering megacities. The world-famous tidal bore may draw tourists, but for would-be expats, the river's dangers and the region's bureaucratic headaches outweigh any scenic charms. And while the Qiantang basin boasts rich ecosystems, industrial development has taken a toll, with soil erosion a persistent issue. Ultimately, this sleepy provincial town is better suited to nature lovers and history buffs than ambitious career-minded Westerners.