Chiang Rai, Thailand 🇹🇭
#394
19.906886, 99.833273
Nomad Score:
71%
Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Chiang Rai is a city in northern Thailand, known for its rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning natural landscapes. |
| 👥 Population | Approximately 200,000 |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average 50 Mbps, with many cafes offering free Wi-Fi |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | 1 THB ≈ 0.03 USD, local currency is Thai Baht (THB) |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Not drinkable, bottled water recommended |
| 🔌 Power | 220V, 50Hz, 🔌 Type A/B sockets |
| 📶 SIM Card | AIS, DTAC, and TrueMove are popular providers with 4G options at affordable prices |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | Many international banks like Bangkok Bank, Kasikorn Bank as well as digital banks like Revolut |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Options include Airbnb, local guesthouses, and serviced apartments like The Heritage Hotel |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Yes, widely accepted in most businesses and forms of transport |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local guesthouses easily found, prices range from $10 to $30 per night |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Hostel options like 12 Bungalow Hostel and Karma Home, with dorm beds starting at $5 per night |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | The Brick Coworking Space, known for high-speed internet and a friendly atmosphere |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House, offering a great workspace with Wi-Fi |
| 💼 Networking Events | Chiang Rai Expats Meetup group often hosts casual networking evenings, check local Facebook groups |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | Events hosted by Chiang Rai International Club provide networking opportunities |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Grab is the popular ride-hailing app in the region |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Available at various local shops, rental prices around 150-300 THB per day |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | No beaches, but Chiang Rai is about 3 hours from the nearest beach at Koh Chang |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | Nok Air and Thai Lion Air serve regional routes |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | Bangkok Airways is the major carrier flying in and out of Chiang Rai International Airport |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | Well-connected via Highway 1 and Highway 1211 to Chiang Mai and further south |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | Chiang Rai does not have a train station, buses are primary transit |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | No specific passes, public buses are affordable and run frequently |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Bus services connect to major cities like Chiang Mai and Bangkok through companies like Green Bus |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | Chiang Rai Prachanukroh Hospital, known for comprehensive health services |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Yoga Home offers various classes, typically ranging from 300-600 THB per session |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Fitness Centers like Anytime Fitness and local Thai gyms available |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Laundromats like Wash & Dry Express offer self-service and drop-off options |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | Foodpanda and GrabFood are popular in the area |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Khao Soi, a northern curry noodle dish, is a must-try |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Vegetarian food stalls at local markets, Khao Na Gai is highly recommended |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | The Cafe de Flore offers a variety of western desserts and local sweets |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Chiang Rai Night Bazaar for budget-friendly food and crafts |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Lazada and Shopee for online shopping needs |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | GrabMart offers grocery delivery services across the city |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | The centre in Chiang Rai has several bars like The Space and Namthip |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | Chiang Rai Craft Beer offering local brews and tasting sessions |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | Chiang Rai Wine Bar presents a selection of local and imported wines |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Availability near Night Bazaar; try the grilled meats and fresh fruits |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Pizza and Pasta restaurant on Phaholyothin Road offers good Italian food |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | Wat Rong Khun (The White Temple) and Wat Phra Kaew are top attractions |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | Chiang Rai Art Museum showcases local contemporary art |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | The ancient city of Chiang Sean, a former capital of the Lanna Kingdom |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | Wat Huai Pla Kang, famous for its large statue of the Goddess of Mercy |
| 🎉 Annual Events | Singha Park International Balloon Fiesta held every February |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | The Old Town area offers a glimpse into Chiang Rai's history with its architecture |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | Local universities host cultural performances throughout the year |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | The Night Bazaar is a vibrant market for food and local crafts |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Live music at various bars, mostly focusing on Thai and international classics |
| 🎨 Street Art | Chiang Rai has several installations, especially around the town center |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Learn to cook Thai dishes at Education Center for Community Health |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | Baan Dam Museum featuring artworks by Thawan Duchanee |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | Chaing Rai Clock Tower known for its beautiful light display at night |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | Elephant conservation centers are pivotal to Chiang Rai's heritage |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Doi Tung mountain area offering hiking and stunning views |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | Doi Luang National Park nearby for trekking and outdoor activities |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | Various trails around the city, including along the river |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | Golden Triangle viewpoint where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | Doi Lang and Doi Jot for birdwatching enthusiasts |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | SD Resort and Camp area permits bonfires in designated areas |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | Kerry Express and Thailand Post for reliable shipping services |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Local shops on Phaholyothin Road for phone and electronic repairs |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Community centers host ping pong tables, often free for locals |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Language schools like AUA Chiang Rai offer Thai language courses |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | Chiang Rai Public Library offers a quiet study environment |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | Cultural community centers host various events for locals and expats |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Local internet cafes with gaming options available widely |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | No major casinos, but some border casinos are a short drive away |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. 30,000 THB per m² (e.g., 40 m² = 1,200,000 THB) |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. 20,000 THB per m² (e.g., 40 m² = 800,000 THB) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. 28,000 THB per m² (e.g., 60 m² = 1,680,000 THB) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. 18,000 THB per m² (e.g., 60 m² = 1,080,000 THB) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. 25,000 THB per m² (e.g., 80 m² = 2,000,000 THB) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. 15,000 THB per m² (e.g., 80 m² = 1,200,000 THB) |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | 20% standard corporate tax rate |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | 10% tax on dividends |
| 🏦 Tax System | Tax system based on residency for individuals |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | Maximum personal income tax rate of 35% |
| 🧾 VAT | Standard Value Added Tax rate of 7% |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, applies to certain residents |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Annual property tax based on property type and value |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | 2% transfer fee plus a 0.01% stamp duty |