Surin, Thailand

Capital City

The population of Surin is a modest 39,728, but don't let that fool you - this provincial capital in eastern Thailand has its fair share of bureaucratic headaches. The annual Surin Elephant Round-up may draw tourists, but the region's tropical savanna climate means scorching summers and heavy monsoon rains that can disrupt daily life. And with the nearest airport lacking commercial flights, getting in and out of Surin is hardly a breeze. While the city boasts a rich history spanning the Dvaravati and Khmer empires, those seeking an easy, cosmopolitan expat experience would do better to look elsewhere.