Prachin Buri, Thailand

With a population of 493,670, Prachin Buri is a bustling provincial hub, but one with its fair share of bureaucratic headaches. The city sits in Thailand's eastern river valley, surrounded by the Sankamphaeng mountain range. While the province boasts two national parks and a rich history, the local government is a maze of 65 subdistricts and 658 villages. Industry thrives here, with Honda's massive 120,000-unit car plant, but the per capita GDP of $11,700 suggests the wealth is not evenly distributed. For those seeking a taste of rural Thailand, Prachin Buri may fit the bill, but don't expect an effortless expat experience.