Qingshanquan, China

With a population of 44,314, the reality is that Qingshanquan is a modest-sized city, not the glittering metropolis some might imagine. The engineering challenges of constructing an expressway link through the Taiwan Strait are a persistent headache, and the political controversy over Taiwan's status complicates matters further. Bureaucracy is a fact of life for those living in this part of China. This city is best suited for those seeking a quieter pace of life, rather than the bright lights and excitement of a major urban center.