Does any Foreign Bank allow USA citizens to open bank accounts?

I contacted Citibank China, they said I need to be there in person and bring a passport. I like having a foreign account because I can denominate the account in almost any currency I want.

Is there any way to open a foreign bank account without being present?

No, and it's gonna set off patriot act stuff if you're licensed, or if you transfer even $10k. Also you may want to be sure of any limitations on the investments you can make as a non resident alien.

So basically I have to fly there and do it in person. In that case it won't be worth it unless I deposit about $10,000USD which I'm not ready to do just yet.