Zhaobaoshan, China

With a population of just 61,979, Zhaobaoshan is hardly the bustling metropolis some may envision. The reality is a sleepy coastal town, where the primary attractions are historical relics like the 2,000-foot Weiyuan City Wall and 57.6-meter Aozhu Pagoda. Getting around requires a 50-minute bus ride from the nearest city of Ningbo, and even then, entry to the scenic areas will set you back 60 yuan per person. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, as evidenced by the town's brief occupation by British forces in 1842. For those seeking an authentic taste of China's ancient history and coastal defenses, Zhaobaoshan may hold appeal, but the remote location and heavy red tape make it a poor choice for the average expat.