Sanmenxia, China

With a population of over 2 million, Sanmenxia is no sleepy backwater. But behind the city's modern facade lies a persistent bureaucratic headache - the legacy of the Sanmenxia Dam project that flooded the ancient gorges and passes. While the weather is moderate, the city's location at the intersection of three provinces means navigating complex local regulations is an ongoing challenge.

Those seeking an authentic Chinese experience may be disappointed by Sanmenxia's reliance on heavy industry and state-owned enterprises. The cultural heritage is there, but often obscured by the pragmatic demands of running a major regional center. Overall, this is a functional, if uninspiring, choice for those who can stomach the administrative hassles.