Chiang Mai

Grab works in Chiang Mai but with fewer drivers than Bangkok. Red songthaews (shared pickup trucks) run fixed routes in the Old City for 30-40 THB. Renting a scooter is the most popular option at 2,500-3,500 THB/month (~$70-100). Always wear a helmet — police checkpoints are frequent.

Chiang Mai is one of the cheapest cities in the world to eat. A local restaurant meal averages just 65 THB (~$1.86). A mid-range dinner for two costs about 625 THB (~$18). Street food at the famous Night Bazaar or Sunday Walking Street markets runs 30-60 THB per dish.

A one-bedroom apartment in the city center (Nimman, Old City) averages 15,265 THB (~$436/month). Outside the center (Santitham, Hang Dong), expect about 8,712 THB (~$249/month). Many modern condos with pools and gyms are available around Nimman for 8,000-15,000 THB.

AIS, TrueMove H, and DTAC all have good coverage in Chiang Mai city. Tourist SIM cards from AIS start at 49 THB. TrueMove H 30-day unlimited plans are 1,199 THB ($33.60). Available at the airport and 7-Eleven stores. Monthly utilities average about 2,148 THB (~$61) and internet is ~606 THB (~$17).

CRITICAL: Chiang Mai has a severe burning season from February through April when farmers burn crop residues. AQI regularly exceeds 150 (unhealthy) and has spiked above 700, temporarily making it the world's most polluted city. Many expats leave the city during March-April. Invest in a good N95 mask and a HEPA air purifier for your apartment.

Bangkok Bank and Kasikorn Bank have branches in Chiang Mai. Same requirements as Bangkok: Non-Immigrant visa required (not tourist visa), passport, proof of address, and school letter or work permit. Initial deposit of 500-2,000 THB.

Chiang Mai Ram Hospital and Lanna Hospital are the main private hospitals used by expats. Both have English-speaking staff and accept international insurance. For specialist treatment, Bangkok's hospitals are a short domestic flight away.

Chiang Mai is the cultural heart of Lanna (northern Thai) civilization with over 300 temples. The city has a notably more traditional and conservative atmosphere than Bangkok. Dress very modestly at temples and during Lanna cultural festivals like Yi Peng (lantern festival) in November.

Chiang Mai is very safe — one of the safest cities in Southeast Asia. The main risk is motorbike accidents (drive carefully in the moat area and mountain roads). During burning season, poor visibility is an additional driving hazard.

Rimping Supermarket is the go-to for imported goods. For budget groceries, try Makro or Lotus's. The Sunday Walking Street market along Ratchadamnoen Road and Saturday Night Market on Wualai Road are great for crafts, food, and local products.

Nimmanhaemin (Nimman) Road is the trendy area with cafes, bars, and live music venues. The Old City has more laid-back bars. Chiang Mai's nightlife is much quieter than Bangkok's — most places close by midnight. The Sunday Night Market area has a nice evening atmosphere.