Shanwei, China

At over 2.7 million residents, Shanwei is a sprawling resort city on China's southern coast. While the warm climate and coastal scenery may attract tourists, the reality for those looking to settle down is less glamorous. The city's bureaucracy is a persistent headache, with a history of land disputes and clashes between locals and authorities. And with over 1,900 mm of rainfall per year, the humid subtropical climate can be a dampener on day-to-day life. Overall, Shanwei is better suited to short-term visitors than permanent residents seeking an easy life abroad.