Xiangcheng Chengguanzhen, China

With a population of 65,833, life in this Chinese town is a far cry from the glitz and glamor of the country's megacities. The bureaucracy can be a persistent headache, and the climate is hardly ideal. Yet for those seeking a quieter, more affordable alternative to the urban hubs, Xiangcheng Chengguanzhen may hold some appeal - but it's certainly not for the faint of heart.