Global and Graduate Programs

About Houston, Texas

Houston is the fourth-largest city in the United States and the largest city in Texas, with more than 2.3 million residents. Founded in 1836 and named after General Sam Houston, the city has grown into a global hub for energy, healthcare, aerospace, and international trade.

The city is home to the Texas Medical Center, the largest medical complex in the world, and NASA’s Johnson Space Center, where astronauts train for space missions. Houston’s port is also the busiest in the United States by international tonnage, making it a leader in global commerce.

With a metropolitan GDP exceeding $600 billion, Houston ranks among the strongest regional economies in the world. More than 5,000 companies are engaged in international business, and nearly 90 foreign consulates are located here, reflecting the city’s strong global ties.

Houston is also one of the most diverse cities in the U.S., where over 145 languages are spoken. This diversity is reflected in the city’s vibrant culture, food, and arts scene, making it a welcoming place for professionals and visitors alike.

Tourism continues to thrive—over 54 million visitors came to Houston in 2024, contributing more than $3 billion in hotel revenue and supporting thousands of jobs in the hospitality industry.

About Houston, Texas

• Houston is called “Space City” thanks to NASA’s Johnson Space Center.
• Mission Control in Houston has guided every U.S. human spaceflight since the 1960s.
• The first words from the Moon in 1969 were, “Houston, the Eagle has landed.”
• All U.S. astronauts train in Houston before heading to space.
• NASA’s Johnson Space Center employs 10,000+ people in aerospace and research.
• Visitors can explore rockets, shuttles, and space history at Space Center Houston, which welcomes 1 million+ guests a year.

Food Scene

ouston is often called the culinary capital of Texas, with one of the most diverse food scenes in the United States. The city boasts authentic Tex-Mex, smoky barbecue, and Cajun classics, alongside international flavors from Vietnam, India, Nigeria, and beyond. With more than 10,000 restaurants representing over 70 countries, Houston is truly a global dining destination. The city’s Chinatown district, located along Bellaire Boulevard, is a must-visit for dim sum, hot pot, and Asian street food.

Restaurant Recommendations:

• Ninfa’s on Navigation – legendary for Tex-Mex and fajitas
• Killen’s Barbecue – classic Texas BBQ
• Himalaya Restaurant – award-winning Indian/Pakistani cuisine
• Blood Bros. BBQ – fusion barbecue with Asian flavors
• Ocean Palace – a Chinatown favorite for dim sum
• Xiong’s Café – casual but beloved Chinese spot in Chinatown

Weather

Houston has a humid subtropical climate with long, hot summers and short, mild winters. Summer temperatures often reach the mid-90s °F (35 °C), with high humidity that makes the city feel even warmer. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in the warmer months, helping to cool the city down. Winters are usually mild, with daytime highs in the 60s °F (15–20 °C), making outdoor activities enjoyable year-round. Houston also gets plenty of sunshine—around 260 days a year—but is no stranger to heavy rain, especially during hurricane season from June through November.

Airports

Houston is one of the most well-connected cities in the United States, served by two major airports.

• George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH): Located about 23 miles north of downtown, IAH is the city’s primary international gateway and the second-largest passenger hub for United Airlines. It offers flights to more than 180 destinations worldwide across five terminals, handling over 40 million passengers annually. Business and international travelers will find extensive global connections to Europe, Asia, Latin America, and beyond.

• William P. Hobby Airport (HOU): Just 7 miles south of downtown, Hobby Airport provides easy domestic travel and growing international service, particularly to Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. It serves as a hub for Southwest Airlines and offers a convenient, traveler-friendly experience for shorter trips.

Together, Houston’s airports handle more than 55 million passengers each year, making the city one of the busiest aviation hubs in North America.

Where to Stay

University of Houston Hilton (UH Hilton) – Conveniently located on the University of Houston campus, the UH Hilton offers comfortable accommodations with modern amenities and on-site dining. It is within walking distance of the Law Center, making it an ideal option for visitors attending events or meetings. The hotel also provides easy access to downtown Houston, the Museum District, and nearby attractions via the METRORail or a short drive.

• https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/houuhhf-hilton-university-of-houston/