Chiang Mai'S Nice: But Where'S Another Nice Place To Live

[JustCurious]

I passed through a few years ago looking at expat communities in different countries.

I came back for a second look recently. CM is a very nice community. A good mix of friendly people, low cost of living, access to quality health care, choices of recreational and cultural opportunities and adequate shopping.

But what other locations would you recommend in Thailand, Asia....or anywhere? (part year or year round)

In South America, I liked Cuenca, Ecuador and in Mexico, San Cristobal de Las Casas. They're a blend of modern and old world. In the USA, Colorado Springs, Colorado.

[onthedarkside]

I think one would be better in General. Might get a more balanced view

[krisb]

Pattaya, blend of new girls and old tourists.

[chuang]

Nong Khai...

[theblether]

You need to establish the basic criteria as to what you need to make your community perfect for you. If you are a TV member you need.......

1. A large community of voracious ladyboys that like to grope you and deny their sexuality.

2. An elderly expat community tied to young Thai bar girl wives......the perfect mix when said elderly expat dies for casting aspersions and suspicions about their death.

3. Jet ski operators on your doorstep so that you can look out every day and see the latest victim being scammed.

4. You need to live close to worst Immigration office so that your 90 day reporting is a complete nightmare.

5. You need highly aggressive and violent tuk tuk drivers that take delight in overcharging you.

6. A corrupt and inept police department.

7. High level official corruption and land grabs perpetrated by powerful local clans.

8. The occasional natural disaster.

9. Shocking safety standards in hotels, bars and nightclubs.

10. A high level of street crime with shocking consequences.

No doubt some people could add more.....but if you want the ideal community as a TV member......I recommend Phuket.

You'll never have a dull moment or nothing to talk about.

Just sayin'

.

[fish fingers]

You forgot to mention the farang population of Phuket, especially the 'monied elite' who hang out at Catch and Indigo Pearl for sunday buffet. probably the most awful group of people I'll ever come across.

[barefoot1988]

mae hong son would be my top choice personally. i believe anyone who ever drive up to mhs would agree that it is very very beautiful. top notch hospital as well, but lacking in shopping and other stuff.

might be boring for some though

[lovelomsak]

To help you understand my choice I will let you know some of my favorites outside of Thailand first. Mexico it is Rincon De Quayabitos, it has Quadalajara friendliness. In Canada it is Victoria on Vancouver Island,for recreation.In Thailand I always have liked Pitsanulok the most.It is central to all of Thailand,has good hospitals,loads of great restaurants,good shopping, and affordable housing.

[theblether]

You forgot to mention the farang population of Phuket, especially the 'monied elite' who hang out at Catch and Indigo Pearl for sunday buffet. probably the most awful group of people I'll ever come across.

Thatt sounds intriguing on a slightly horrifying way.....

[samsara]

mae hong son would be my top choice personally. i believe anyone who ever drive up to mhs would agree that it is very very beautiful. top notch hospital as well, but lacking in shopping and other stuff.

might be boring for some though

a man of taste

[meatballs]

Nong Khai is very underrated.

[smokie36]

You forgot to mention the farang population of Phuket, especially the 'monied elite' who hang out at Catch and Indigo Pearl for sunday buffet. probably the most awful group of people I'll ever come across.

Thatt sounds intriguing on a slightly horrifying way.....

Phuket is a truly horrifying thought for more than a week's holiday.

[Chittychangchang]

Pattaya is very underated!