An Expat Talks about Moving to Chiang Mai, Thailand

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Chiang Mai

Name three things that you wish you had brought and three you wish you had left at home.

More pictures of my family including my wedding album, shoes & wine. Shoes for my husband (size 12) are very difficult to find here and wine costs a fortune. I didn't bring anything that I wish I hadn't.

William Russell
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What advice would you give someone preparing to move to your area about the actual move, choosing a neighborhood and finding a home?

Chiang Mai is a beautiful place but we have seen many people get caught up in the dream without really thinking things through. Come here for awhile, get to know the people and not just the people hanging out in the bars and get to know the culture. It is easy to find a house here but it may never be a home.

What type of housing do you live in? Is this typical for most expats in your area?

We have a private house, traditional Thai. We are the only expats we know who have a house here. Most live in guesthouses, condos..etc.

How did you choose your neighborhood and find your home or apartment?

Our friends are here and it is the perfect little soi. Not to quiet, not to noisy. The house was just perfect for us. It is in the city of Chiang Mai and close to everything. But, the pollution is getting bad. We may have to move up on the mountain.

Are your housing costs higher or lower than they were in your home country? What is the average cost of housing there?

Lower. We don't have a/c, which we may soon regret. But average living costs for us are about 30,000B. But we like to go out alot.