Zhuhai, China

This city of 2.44 million isn't the Chinese Riviera the tourism board promises. Zhuhai's designation as a special economic zone means an endless headache of bureaucracy for foreign residents. The subtropical climate delivers sweltering summers and no winter to speak of. However, the city leverages its strategic position near Macau to attract global companies, with 19 of the world's top 500 firms operating here. For career-focused expats willing to navigate Zhuhai's quirks, the city offers an efficient launch pad into China's booming economy.