Zhawa, China

The population of 571,648 may seem enticing, but life in this remote corner of China is no easy feat. The county is divided into a patchwork of townships, each with its own bureaucratic headaches. And security is an ever-present concern, with recent violent incidents targeting government offices. The harsh climate - situated on the edge of the Tarim Basin - only compounds the challenges.

For those undeterred by heavy red tape and potential unrest, the region does offer economic opportunities, from cotton to walnuts. But Zhawa is best suited for the resilient adventurer, not the faint of heart.