Kinmen, Taiwan

With a population of just 139,689, Kinmen is a remote Taiwanese archipelago perched uncomfortably close to the Chinese mainland. Despite its strategic military importance, the island's economy now relies heavily on tourism and cross-strait business ties - a delicate balancing act given the constant political tensions. Residents face a heavy tax burden and must contend with the island's vulnerability to droughts, though the lush natural scenery and historical sites attract visitors. For Taiwanese and Chinese businesspeople seeking easier access to the other side of the strait, Kinmen may offer a unique outpost, but its isolated location and fraught politics make it a dubious choice for the average foreign expat.