Wanxian, China

With a population of over 1.5 million, Wanzhou is a bustling urban center, but the relocation of 47% of the old town due to the Three Gorges Dam project has left a persistent bureaucratic headache. The subtropical climate provides short, mild winters, but the sweltering summers can be grueling. Navigating this rapidly changing city requires grit and an adventurous spirit. Wanzhou may appeal to those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in China, but the heavy lifting involved makes it a poor choice for the faint of heart.