Chiang Mai is the Perfect Base for Digital Nomads and Expatriates

As I peered outside of the balcony of our Thai apartment – far off in the distance – I spotted a plane ascending. As the plane suddenly disappeared into the clouds it hit me I’d soon be leaving Chiang Mai, Thailand in a couple of days. Pensive, I wondered where the time had gone?

For the past several months Chiang Mai has been our home. While traveling in Vietnam, we felt burnt out. We craved a base, a routine and a sense of familiarity. After months of backpacking continuously we hit a point where travel had become tedious. It was a chore. It was no longer fun.

Trying to juggle the demands of working online while backpacking is a balancing act we’ve yet to master; however, we knew one thing with absolute certainty: we needed to slow down.

source: Nomadic Samuel and That Backpacker teaming up on Samuel and Audrey channel

In hindsight, I realized I was living a fantasy believing I could keep up the pace of my backpacking adventures from years past with the added commitments of working remotely. Overly ambitious, we continued on until we finally reached a point where our both our mental and physical health started to deteriorate.

Chiang Mai was our saviour.

Chiang Mai = The Perfect Base For Digital Nomads

On the first day we arrived it already felt like home. We purchased bicycles. We quickly discovered restaurants we both loved. Instead of feeling a sense of pressure to see and do as much as we possibly could before moving on to the next destination, we felt content wandering around in our neighbourhood.

After months of hearing stories of fellow digital drifters making Chiang Mai their home I was naturally sceptical. It must be over-rated. How can one want to give up the excitement and stimulation of constantly moving from one place to another to hunker down in just one location?

Well, as I’ve come to realize over the past several months there are many reasons that Chiang Mai is the perfect base for digital nomads.

Amazing Thai and International Food In Chiang Mai

source: That Backpacker + Nomadic Samuel via Samuel and Audrey YT channel

Some people eat to live. I live to eat. I couldn’t image myself staying somewhere were I would not be able to indulge my taste buds. Chiang Mai offers a wonderful spread of cuisine ranging from familiar Thai favourites, tantalizing Northern Thai Khantoke cuisine and top notch International food. Whether we were craving a savoury Panang curry or a Mexican burrito, we had options galore at our disposal. Street food stalls offered tasty treats and small meals for mere dollars whereas sit down International restaurants rarely left us with a bill of over 300 Baht (roughly $10 USD).

These are some of our favourite eateries:

source: Nomadic Samuel + That Backpacker via Samuel and Audrey on YouTube

Chang Chalaad: For the best Pad Thai you can’t go wrong visiting this tiny little hole in the wall restaurant located near the northeastern section of the walled city. For dessert indulge in the mango sticky rice. If you’re heading there with a group consider the Khantoke set dinner – a feast you won’t soon forget.

source: Nomadic Samuel and That Backpacker on Samuel and Audrey YT channel

Dada Cafe: This popular cafe was our go-to-place for breakfast and lunch. With options such as curry fried rice, towering sandwiches and rich creamy fruit smoothies, we came back time and again. Our favourite item on the menu was a concoction called Energy Me – a smoothie with copious amounts of fresh coconut, mango and banana.

El Diablo: For quesadillas oozing with cheese, crispy nachos and stuffed – beyond saturation point – burritos, El Diablo was my favourite spot for a Mexican spread.

Exploring the Culinary Scene

Chiang Mai’s food scene extends beyond restaurants; it’s an entire culinary adventure waiting to be explored.

• Street Food Markets: The Chiang Mai Gate Market and Sunday Night Market are bustling with vendors selling local delicacies like Khao Soi (a spicy coconut curry noodle soup) and Mango Sticky Rice.
• Cooking Classes: Immerse yourself in Thai cuisine by taking a cooking class at Thai Farm Cooking School or Asia Scenic Thai Cooking School. Learn to prepare authentic dishes using fresh ingredients picked from local farms.
• Vegetarian and Vegan Options: With a significant Buddhist population, Chiang Mai offers numerous vegetarian and vegan restaurants like Anchan Vegetarian Restaurant and Free Bird Cafe.

Fast Internet In Chiang Mai

As a digital nomad internet is your lifeline; your river; your bloodstream. Without it (or with a weak connection) your business operations are literally shut down. In our residence apartment we had a reliable connection and when we wanted a change of scenery we could easily find cafes offering free Wi-fi.

Coworking Spaces and Cafes

Chiang Mai has become a hub for remote workers, and the city caters to this community with numerous coworking spaces and cafes.

• Punspace: With locations in Nimmanhaemin and Tha Phae Gate, Punspace offers 24-hour access, high-speed internet, and a community of entrepreneurs.
• MANA Coworking & Cafe: A cozy space combining work and leisure, perfect for networking.
• CAMP (Creative and Meeting Place): Located in the Maya Lifestyle Shopping Center, this space is open 24/7 and provides free Wi-Fi with a purchase.
• Yellow Coworking Space: Known for its modern design and facilities, it’s a favorite among tech startups.

Cheap Apartments In Chiang Mai

Aside from food, having a comfortable/affordable place to hang my hat is absolutely paramount when I’m considering a base. Chiang Mai did not disappoint. Our residence apartment was a spacious studio equipped with a queen sized bed, television, fridge, desk space and air conditioning; moreover, our balcony offered stunning views of the city framed by a mountainous backdrop. A rooftop pool and gym was the cherry on top. A place like this must cost a fortune? We ended up spending under $10 a night for our room along with $2-3 a day on utilities. Definitely, value for money.

Finding the Perfect Apartment

• Popular Areas:
  • Nimmanhaemin Road: Trendy and modern, close to universities and filled with cafes.
  • Old City: Surrounded by historic temples and walls, offering a more traditional vibe.
  • Santitham: A quieter neighborhood with a local feel and lower prices.
• Rental Options:
  • Short-term Rentals: Ideal for those staying a few weeks to a few months. Websites like Airbnb and Booking.com are useful.
  • Long-term Rentals: For stays over six months, consider contacting local real estate agents or using Facebook groups.
• Amenities to Consider:
  • Security: Look for places with 24-hour security or keycard access.
  • Facilities: Pools, gyms, and communal areas can enhance your living experience.
  • Furnished vs. Unfurnished: Furnished apartments save the hassle of buying furniture.

Sense Of Community In Chiang Mai

An important factor in choosing a place to base yourself is a sense of community and belonging. In Chiang Mai you’ll find yourself surrounded by like minded individuals working remotely, teaching and/or starting up businesses. With such an entrepreneurial spirit it’s inspiring to meet up with other expats pursuing a location independent lifestyle. Having the opportunity to bounce ideas off of one another certainly kept me on track with my goals and overall focus.

Networking and Social Events

• Meetups and Workshops: Regular events on topics like digital marketing, coding, and personal development.
• Language Exchanges: Improve your Thai or help others with English at events like Chiang Mai Language Exchange.
• Social Clubs:
  • Chiang Mai Expats Club: Offers monthly meetings and social events.
  • Outdoor Enthusiasts Groups: Join hiking, biking, or climbing groups to explore nature and meet people.

Chiang Mai Charm Factor

Chiang Mai will charm your pants off. With its laid back pace of life you’ll find yourself rubbing elbows with robed monks as you meander down serpentine side streets in search of a quaint little cafes. For the culture vulture, weekend markets and a regular stream of festivals and events will tickle your every fancy. For the party animal, pulsating nightlife is available where an endless flow of Chang beer is on tap.

I was fortunate enough to make Chiang Mai my home for several months. I’m eager to return next year for another stint with my parents. During my time in Chiang Mai I was able to stay on top of work online, feast on an incredible spread of food, live in comfortable apartment and connect with new friends. I ended up spending a mere faction of what it cost – on a monthly basis – compared to backpacking. For less than $1000 a month we lived in Chiang Mai experiencing a high quality of life. For the digital nomad, backpacker, retiree, traveller or aspiring entrepreneur I can’t think of a better place to be.

Cultural Attractions

• Temples (Wats):
  • Wat Chedi Luang: Known for its massive chedi (stupa) that was once the tallest structure in ancient Chiang Mai. Participate in a monk chat to learn about Buddhism.
  • Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: Perched on a mountain overlooking the city, it’s one of the most sacred temples in Northern Thailand. The climb up the 306-step staircase is both a spiritual and physical journey.
• Museums:
  • Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre: Provides insights into the city’s history, culture, and development.
  • Lanna Folklife Museum: Showcases traditional Northern Thai life through exhibits of clothing, tools, and art.

Festivals

• Loy Krathong and Yi Peng: Participate in releasing floating baskets and sky lanterns during this enchanting festival in November. The sight of thousands of lanterns illuminating the sky is unforgettable.
• Songkran (Thai New Year): Held in April, it’s the world’s biggest water fight. Join locals and tourists in splashing water to wash away the previous year’s misfortunes.
• Flower Festival: Held in February, featuring vibrant parades, floral displays, and beauty pageants celebrating the region’s botanical beauty.

Nightlife

• Riverside Bars: Enjoy live music and riverside views at venues like The Riverside Bar & Restaurant and Good View Bar.
• Nightclubs: Places like Zoe in Yellow and Warm Up Cafe offer dance floors, DJs, and a lively atmosphere.
• Jazz Bars: North Gate Jazz Co-Op is famous for its live jazz performances, attracting both locals and expats.
• Night Markets:
  • Sunday Walking Street: A pedestrian-only market offering handicrafts, street food, and live performances.
  • Night Bazaar: Open every night, it’s a shopper’s paradise for souvenirs, clothing, and artwork.

Health and Wellness

Chiang Mai is also a hub for those seeking to improve their well-being. The city offers a holistic approach to health, blending traditional Thai practices with modern wellness trends.

Yoga and Meditation

• Yoga Studios:
  • Wild Rose Yoga Studio: Offers various styles of yoga in a serene environment, including Hatha, Vinyasa, and Yin yoga.
  • The Yoga Tree: Provides classes and workshops for all levels, along with dance and movement therapies.
  • Mahasiddha Yoga: Focuses on spiritual growth through Tantra yoga and meditation.
• Meditation Retreats:
  • Wat Umong: A 700-year-old temple in the forest offering meditation classes and retreats. The tranquil setting with tunnels and a large pond enhances the experience.
  • Wat Ram Poeng (Tapotaram): Known for its intensive Vipassana meditation courses ranging from 10 days to several weeks.
  • Doi Suthep Vipassana Meditation Center: Provides structured meditation courses with accommodation and meals.

Traditional Thai Massage and Spas

• Thai Massage Schools:
  • Thai Massage Conservation Club: Offers affordable massages performed by students under supervision.
  • Old Medicine Hospital (ITM): Learn Thai massage techniques or enjoy treatments from experienced practitioners.
• Spas:
  • Oasis Spa: Luxurious treatments in a tranquil setting, offering packages like aromatherapy, herbal steam baths, and body scrubs.
  • Fah Lanna Spa: An award-winning spa with a range of traditional and modern therapies.
  • Lila Thai Massage: Offers traditional massages while supporting the rehabilitation of former female inmates.

Healthy Eating

• Organic Markets:
  • Jing Jai Farmers Market: Open on weekends, featuring organic produce, homemade goods, and artisanal products.
  • Chamcha Market: A community market promoting sustainable living and healthy eating.
• Health Food Stores:
  • Rimping Supermarket: Stocks organic products, imported goods, and health supplements.
  • Oh Kajhu Organic Farm Restaurant: Serves dishes made from produce grown on their own farm.

Fitness and Outdoor Activities

• Gyms and Fitness Centers:
  • GoGym: Offers modern equipment, classes, and personal training.
  • CrossFit Chiang Mai: For high-intensity workouts and a supportive community.
• Muay Thai Training:
  • Lanna Muay Thai Boxing Camp: Offers training for all levels, from beginners to professional fighters.
  • Santai Muay Thai Gym: Known for its experienced trainers and authentic training methods.
• Cycling and Hiking:
  • Doi Suthep Mountain: Popular for hiking and cycling, with trails suitable for various fitness levels.
  • Huay Tung Tao Lake: A scenic spot for jogging, cycling, and picnicking.

Mental Health and Wellness

• Counseling Services:
  • Chiang Mai Counseling: Offers professional counseling and therapy services in English.
  • NCS Counseling Center: Provides support for individuals, couples, and families.
• Wellness Retreats:
  • The Pavana Chiang Mai Resort: Offers detox programs, wellness retreats, and holistic healing therapies.
  • Museflower Retreat & Spa: A sanctuary focusing on mind-body-spirit balance through yoga, meditation, and spa treatments.

Transportation in Chiang Mai

Getting around Chiang Mai is convenient and affordable. You’ve got options galore catering to different preferences.

Public Transportation

• Songthaews (Red Trucks):
  • How They Work: Shared taxis that follow set routes but can be hailed anywhere. Simply flag one down, tell the driver your destination, and they’ll let you know if they’re heading that way.
  • Cost: Typically 20–30 Baht within the city, but may increase for longer distances or late-night travel.
• Tuk-tuks:
  • Experience: A quintessential Thai mode of transport, offering a fun and quick way to navigate short distances.
  • Negotiation: Always agree on a fare before starting the journey to avoid misunderstandings.

Ride-Hailing Apps

• Grab:
  • Services: Offers car and motorbike rides, food delivery, and package delivery.
  • Advantages: Transparent pricing, convenience, and cashless payment options.
• Bolt and InDriver:
  • Alternatives: Other ride-hailing apps gaining popularity, sometimes offering lower fares.

Rental Options

• Motorbikes:
  • Rental Cost: Around 200 Baht per day or 2,500–3,500 Baht per month.
  • Requirements: A valid international driving permit with a motorcycle endorsement is legally required.
  • Safety Tips: Always wear a helmet, be cautious of traffic rules, and consider insurance coverage.
• Bicycles:
  • Ideal For: Short distances within the city, eco-friendly exploration.
  • Rental Cost: Approximately 50–100 Baht per day.
• Car Rentals:
  • When to Consider: For trips outside the city or if you prefer the comfort of a car.
  • Rental Agencies: International companies like Hertz and Budget, as well as local providers.

Other Modes of Transport

• Public Buses:
  • RTC Chiang Mai Smart Bus: Air-conditioned buses covering main routes with a flat fare of 20 Baht.
  • Advantages: Comfortable and equipped with free Wi-Fi.
• Railway and Intercity Buses:
  • Chiang Mai Railway Station: Offers trains to Bangkok and other destinations.
  • Arcade Bus Station: Main hub for buses to other provinces and neighboring countries.

Cost of Living

For less than $1,000 a month, we lived in Chiang Mai experiencing a high quality of life. The city’s affordability is one of its most attractive features for expats and digital nomads.

Typical Monthly Expenses

• Accommodation: $300–$500
  • Includes: Rent and utilities (electricity, water, internet).
  • Variations: Prices depend on location, amenities, and whether it’s a studio or one-bedroom apartment.
• Food: $200–$300
  • Eating Out: Street food meals cost around $1–$2, while dining in mid-range restaurants is about $5–$10 per meal.
  • Groceries: Local markets offer fresh produce at low prices.
• Transportation: $50–$100
  • Includes: Fuel for motorbikes, public transportation fares, occasional taxi or Grab rides.
• Entertainment and Leisure: $100–$200
  • Activities: Cinema tickets, concerts, tours, nightlife.
  • Memberships: Gym or yoga studio fees.
• Healthcare and Insurance: $50–$100
  • Medical Expenses: Routine check-ups, over-the-counter medications.
  • Insurance: Travel or health insurance premiums.
• Miscellaneous: $50–$100
  • Mobile Phone Plans: Data and call packages are inexpensive.
  • Personal Care: Haircuts, massages, and other services.
• Total Estimated Monthly Cost: Approximately $750–$1,300

Budgeting Tips

• Local Markets: Shop at local markets for the freshest produce and best prices.
• Negotiate Rent: Long-term leases often allow for negotiation on rental prices.
• Avoid Tourist Traps: Prices can be higher in tourist-centric areas; explore local spots for better deals.

Have you visited and/or lived in Chiang Mai?  Is it a destination that interests you from a travel perspective and/or as a potential place to settle down?