Chiang Mai, Thailand: the full guide

Welcome to the captivating city of Chiang Mai, Thailand! 

Situated in the picturesque mountainous region of Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is a destination that enchants visitors with its fascinating history, lively culture, and stunning natural landscapes. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a history enthusiast, or just seeking a peaceful getaway, Chiang Mai has something for everyone. 

In this blog post, we’ll uncover the basics to prepare for your stay in Chiang Mai, whether you’re visiting for a long-term vacation or just a few days. 

Note: This article was written based on my 6 months stay in Chiang Mai in 2023/2024.

1 – Before arriving

Getting there:

Located 700 km north of Bangkok, Chiang Mai is pretty well connected to the capital. 

By air: Airasia has many cheap direct flights to Chiang Mai. Flights from Bangkok are usually around 40€ while flights from Phuket are around 60€.  Check their website directly, or best, download their app to access better prices. 

By train: One other very common to go from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is by the overnight train. Several runs everyday, but make a reservation early if you want to take them on the weekends as they are often full. You can book them through https://12go.asia/. There are overall very safe and pretty comfortable. However, you cannot choose bottom or upper berth through the app. By default, it will most of the time be an upper berth. If you absolutely want to choose, you will have to go to the train station. Usually a journey cost around 20€.

By bus: Other popular alternative, buses are doing daily connexion between Bangkok and Chiang Mai. They are a little bit longer than the train, but according to everyone I know who book them, they are pretty comfortable. You can book them through https://12go.asia/ . A journey will cost approximately 15€.

Visas

Initial visa: In 2024, 93 countries are exempted for a visa and will be given a 30 days approval on arrival. At the airport, you might have to show a proof of accommodation for your firsts days in the country, as well as a ticket to exit Thailand (however it is not as asked as in some other countries). To be granted the visa, you have to still have 6 months valid on your passport. 

Visa Renewal: You can easily renew your visa for 30 days by going to an immigration office. If you are planning on doing the process in Bangkok, you will have to do everything online, then go to the immigration on the day they give you an appointment. It can take 3 days, so be sure to have time. In other cities, everything will be done at the immigration and it can take you a full day to do everything (bring some snacks and your patience). 

To do the renewal, you will need a ID picture, a copy of your TM30 (your landlord or hostel should be able to give you a proof), and 1900 baht (50€).

2- DAILY LIFE

Payment:

Except for Bangkok, cash payment is the norm in Thailand. If you want to avoid being stuck somewhere without the ability to pay, withdraw cash beforehand. The flat withdrawal fee with an international card is 220 baht (5,5€) + your bank fees. You can also avoid the latest one with a travel bank card (mine is this one, and I never pay the bank fees).

In 2024, the exchange rate was 1€=38 baht.

Tipping is not customary but is appreciated and even encouraged if you use a delivery or taxi app. 

Safety:

Global safety: Overall, Thailand is very safe, even as a solo woman traveling. The only “danger” you could encounter with Thai people are little scams (the famous tuk-tuk scams) and very little petty thieves. I have also heard a lot of tourists drugged against their will at full-moon parties, so be careful if you go there.

Speaking only about Chiang Mai, I had absolutely no concern for my safety at any moment, even when walking in dark alleys (except for my fear of invisible snakes that might wait for me in the bushes).

The biggest danger in Thailand is other tourists. Due to some beliefs about Thailand, you will encounter a lot of very drunk tourists or bachelor parties that can create an unsafe environment around famous party spots and party hostels.

Health safety: The biggest reasons I saw people going to the emergency room: bike accidents, dengue fever, allergy to mosquitoes and dog bites (pretty rare in cities). 

Water safety: DO NOT DRINK TAP WATER. You can buy a water bottle at any 7 eleven and refill it in your hotel, or use a paying water filter fountain (0,15€ per refill)