Living in Chiang Mai

With two exceptions, Chiang Mai could well be the best city in Thailand for expats. Chiang Mai is a one-hour flight from Bangkok. The drive isn't so bad either. It does make for a longish day, but an overnight in Khampaengphet mitigates that issue.

The roads are good and highway bypasses keep you out of most downtown areas along the way. Mostly the highways are four-lane.

A handy map of various businesses of interest to expats.

Chiang Mai has it's share of ritzy digs, making it possible for the expat to part with serious change every month. But Chiang Mai can also be downright friendly to an expat's budget.

Good quality serviced apartments and condominiums can be as cheap as Bt 6,000 for a single room. Houses for rent are also abundant, especially in the outlying areas like Doi Saket.

From Northern barbeque to western hamburgers .. to chinese to pizza .. Indian and Italian, Chiang Mai has it covered. Dukes is a very popular burger place. If you must, McDonalds has an outlet on the corner of Changklan and Loi Kroh.

This expat resident has done an excellent Google Map of Chiang Mai Eateries

Generally, follow the moat. Any number and qualities of watering holes on both sides of the moat have young ladies welcoming expats. Ambiance and quality varies. Standard pubs are scattered among the "girly bars". Many will offer some food service as well.

Another location where the expat can find a range of entertainment venues is Loi Kroh Road. That street leads from the moat down past the Night Bazaar along Changklan Road and to the river. The Red Lion is comfortable with a nice friendly bar as well as an outdoor deck.

Nimmenhamen Road, which looks like an extension of Eastern Ring Road, has an ever increasing number of night spots. Some are significantly upscale.

This map should get you started with Chiang Mai Bars & Nightlife Exceptions
The two factors which could make Chiang Mai a bit less desirable are: