Buriram, Thailand

Capital City

With just 27,150 residents, Buriram is a sleepy, agricultural backwater far from Thailand's tourist centers. The city has no significant waterways, and its economy revolves around rice and cassava farming. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, as Buriram was only incorporated into Siam in the late 19th century after previously being part of the Khmer Empire. While the city has a decent infrastructure, including an airport and railway station, its lack of natural attractions means the tourist industry has yet to take off. Buriram is best suited for those seeking a quiet, provincial lifestyle away from the crowds - but it's hardly an expat paradise.