Lopburi, Thailand

With over 742,928 residents, Lopburi is Thailand's 31st largest province, but the reality is far from picturesque. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, as the city was once the second capital of the country before falling into ruin. The tropical climate brings heavy monsoon rains and sweltering temperatures, with the mercury spiking to over 41°C in April. Still, Lopburi's rich historical sites like King Narai's Palace and Phra Prang Sam Yot attract visitors seeking a glimpse of the region's storied past. This no-frills destination may appeal to budget-conscious history buffs, but most expats would be better off looking elsewhere.