Tianfu, China

With a population of just 115,370, Tianfu is no metropolis. This new airport hub may be China's third-largest, but the city itself remains a bit player. The bureaucratic headaches of establishing a foothold here are substantial - you'll need to navigate the maze of government approvals and transportation logistics. And while the high-speed rail and metro connections are impressive, the sheer distance from downtown Chengdu, at over 30 miles, means a daily commute is no easy feat. For those seeking an international gateway with a lower cost of living than the megacities, Tianfu may be worth a look. But it's hardly the glamorous, vibrant city the airport hype would suggest.