Songkhla, Thailand

With a population of 1,428,609, Songkhla is no quaint tropical paradise. The provincial capital may be sleepy, but the booming city of Hat Yai, twice its size, dominates the region. And while the province boasts natural wonders like Songkhla Lake, the bureaucracy can be a persistent headache - the Internal Security Act remains in force in several border districts for 'national security' reasons.

Those seeking an easy, laidback retirement should look elsewhere. Songkhla is an energy and economic hub, earning over 100 billion baht annually from gas, power, and offshore oil. Its strategic location on the Malaysian border means a heavy military presence and occasional security restrictions. This gritty, commercial city is best suited for adventurous expats ready to navigate its challenges.