Chiang Mai is the city for the kind of reunion where nobody wants to leave on Sunday. Coffee shops with strong wifi, cheap apartments for monthly stays, a temple every other block, and meals that cost less than a coffee back home.
Two-Week Apartment Math
A nice 1-bed in Nimman or near the Old City is 400-700 EUR for a month. Split between two friends, that's 200-350 EUR each for two weeks of base. Hotels are also cheap - boutique places in the Old City run 30-50 EUR a night.
Wifi is fast everywhere. The digital nomad scene has been complained about for years but the practical infrastructure it built - cafes with power outlets every two seats - benefits everyone.
Eat Out For 2 EUR, Repeatedly
Khao soi from Khao Soi Khun Yai - the locals' favorite - is 2 EUR. Sunday Walking Street food market is the great cheap dinner of the week. SP Chicken for the grilled chicken everyone returns to. Smoothies at every corner for 1 EUR.
The trap is the fancy restaurants opened for foreigners - they're 4x the price for half the joy. Stick with the busy, no-English-menu places.
The Long-Stay Joys
Doi Suthep at sunrise once. A day trip to Pai if your reunion includes someone who'd genuinely enjoy it (it's polarizing). Yoga at Wild Rose. Thai cooking class at Asia Scenic if it's not your tenth class. A massage every other day for 8 EUR.
Practical Notes
- Daily budget
- 25-40 EUR per person
- Best months
- Nov-Feb (avoid burning season Mar-Apr)
- Recommended stay
- 10-14 nights