For a considerable amount of time, the Chinese Embassy in Rachada has been making it very difficult to obtain most Visas. They seem to be requiring more and more documentation.
On the reverse side, Chiang Mai have been getting glowing reports. I do realise that it nay be a bit more expensive, but what's wrong with ?Hong Kong ?

This is a very deep subject. After over 35 years in Asia, which includes HK, Philippines, Thailand and China (all whilst being employed) it does stand out (read any SE Asia Forums) that the women in a foreign relationship expects not only the foreigner to pay for most things domestic, but also to pay towards the girls family.
This is where the issue lays here in China. It is accepted that a chinese girl, with family values living unmarried with a foreigner is akin to a whore. Now questions YOU need to ask of yourself. Are you happy living with a female who is recognized by her own country people as low class, peasant and possibly a whore ?
If you are then so be it, but be prepared to be ostracized by common folk, whilst your little peasant lovely who is classified by her neighbours as a whore, will milk you dry.
Of course all over China there is multiculture I know many well educated foreigners residing in China are married to well Western Educated girls and they are really happy and content. As for those who chose the lower class of women . BEWARE

Perhaps my use of "one horse town" was not the best. As other have said backwater is more appropriate.
To put the record straight, I was comparing HK (home) with KM and Magnifico, the spelling is DonGGuan, and although a very factory orientated area the actual city of Dongguan is made up of over 25 towns and is huge. Sure in certain areas the air quality is not too good but in other areas it's fine.
An hours drive to the Shenzhen /HK border and an hour away from Asia's second best Airport so it's swings and roundabouts.

Guangzhou only an hours drive North, most countries have a consulate there, seen a number of top shows there such as Sarah Brightman, Richard Clayderman, then HK regularly attracts top performers. So yes KM is relatively isolated.
And by the way, only nine cities achieved the demanded air quality this time round, Shenzhen and Zhuhai, both neighboring Dongguan.

So the saying one mans meat is another mans poison rings true

Perhaps my input may be of more help. I lived and worked 20 years in HK, then six years in Manila, same in Bangkok then was relocated for work to Kunming.
As soon as the aircraft doors were opened in KM I hated the place, thought I would make the effort and try to adapt, but failed miserably and requested a move to present place, Dongguan and loving every minute of it.
KM as a city is literally a one horse town, the dust and air pollution are major issues, the altitude doesn't help and you will likely find real isolation. It's quicker to fly to Bangkok than to HK.

If you like your home comforts then shopping will take some adjusting, no City Super or Tastes etc. Suggest you stop and take a deep breath before making your decision. Then you have the issue of visas, if you have to leave China periodically, then HK, Thailand, vietnam etc are your closest options, and with a family the costs will add up.

On the plus side, generally the weather is wonderful, hence the name Spring City.

Good luck

I thinks it's vital to get decent imported items, mainly to get a variety.
If anyone is interested I know a supplier in Kunming stocking authentic imported award winning Devon ciders. Anyone interested let me know and I can dig out their number for you