Suqian, China

With a population of nearly 5 million, Suqian is a sizable prefecture-level city in northern Jiangsu. However, the frigid winters here - the city holds the record for Jiangsu's coldest temperature at -23.4°C - are a genuine challenge. And the area's history of banditry suggests the bureaucracy can be a persistent headache for outsiders. While Suqian is home to major baijiu producers and call centers, it's unlikely to appeal to most expats seeking a smooth, cosmopolitan landing in China.