Xiaolingwei, China

This sleepy suburb of Nanjing is home to just 66,031 residents, making it one of the smaller subdistricts in Jiangsu province. At 46 feet above sea level, the area enjoys a relatively flat topography, but its distance from major hubs like Shanghai (141 miles) and Beijing (552 miles) means accessing the country's economic and political centers is a persistent headache.

The Ming Dynasty imperial tombs located in Xiaolingwei are a historical draw, but the subdistrict itself operates on the same China Standard Time as the rest of the country, offering little in the way of distinct local culture or flavor. For those seeking a quiet, affordable alternative to the chaos of larger Chinese cities, Xiaolingwei may fit the bill - but its remote location and lack of amenities mean it's unlikely to appeal to the average expat.