Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand

The city of Nakhon Ratchasima, located 250 kilometers northeast of Bangkok, is the capital of the province of the same name. Locally known as 'Korat', it is a busy merchant town and the gateway to Northeastern Thailand. Long the least developed and accessible part of the country, the Northeast is undergoing rapid development due to the improved infrastructure and its large population base. Nakhon Ratchasima province is the location of a major food processing companies and national and international manufacturing companies.

Religion: While Thailand is a predominantly Buddhist country there are sizable minorities of Christian, Hindu and Muslim faith. Places of worship of all faiths can be found throughout the city.

Climate: The tropical climate of Northeastern Thailand is characterized by three pronounced seasons. The summer season from mid-March to mid-May is hottest and daytime temperatures often pass the 40oC mark. The rainy season which follows is characterized by a high level of humidity and occasional rain, with most of the precipitation in the form of daily downpours during the months of September and October. The end of October marks the beginning of the dry season, with cool night time temperatures. During the coolest months of December and January the temperature may fall to a chilly 15oC at night and reach only to 25oC at daytime.