Zhijiang, China

Forget the glossy images of modern China - in Zhijiang, the reality is a gritty mix of criminal enterprises and a heavy bureaucratic burden. With a population of just 60,169, this city is a hub for illicit activities, from online gambling scams to human trafficking. The local government has been complicit, even granting citizenship to a convicted criminal in exchange for a hefty donation.

Bureaucracy is a persistent headache here. The development of a massive Chinese-led special economic zone was initially approved by Myanmar's government, but later scrutinized and halted due to irregularities. This pattern of opaque decision-making and shifting policies creates an unstable environment for residents and businesses.

If you're looking for a stable, law-abiding community, Zhijiang is not the place. This city is best suited for those with a high tolerance for risk and a willingness to navigate a complex web of shadowy dealings.