Yingchuan, China

With a population of just under 88,000, Yingchuan is a far cry from the glittering megacities that often dominate discussions of expat life in China. The reality is a provincial town with a long and complex history, but limited modern amenities. In its heyday during the Han dynasty, the commandery boasted over 2.2 million residents across 20 counties. Today, that number has dwindled to less than half a million spread across 9 counties. And while the bureaucracy may have streamlined somewhat since the Tang era, it remains a persistent headache for newcomers.

This is not the China of skyscrapers and tech hubs, but rather a quieter, more traditional way of life. Those seeking the frenetic pace and global connections of a tier-one city would do better to look elsewhere. But for the right person - perhaps an adventurous retiree or a young professional willing to embrace a slower, more local experience - Yingchuan could offer a unique window into China's past.