Чиангмай

Для кого

Remote workers and retirees who can accept a smaller airport and the February–April air-quality season.

Обзор

Chiang Mai is cheaper than Bangkok for most housing and food, with a compact old city and longer scooters-or-Grab distances to the suburbs. The burning season (roughly February–April) is a planning issue, not a footnote — air quality can exceed safe limits for weeks. Immigration and banks are used to foreigners; English at public offices still varies. Nimman and the old city attract remote workers; Hang Dong and Mae Rim offer more space but need a scooter or car.

Как сделать

1. 1

   Plan around smoke season

   If you have respiratory issues, avoid February–April or budget for air purifiers and indoor time. Check AQI forecasts before you sign a lease.
2. 2

   Choose old city versus suburbs

   The moat area is walkable but noisy. Nimman has cafés and co-working; suburbs need transport.
3. 3

   Use local immigration for reports

   Chiang Mai Immigration on Mahidol Road handles 90-day reports and extensions for northern residents — no need to go to Bangkok.