How is Chiang Rai in 2016? Is it like it used to be?

[candels]

I lived in Chiang Rai a couple times back in 2007 / 2008, for a few months at a time. I learned the language to a degree, met friends, and just lived a normal life.

Wondering if its about the same?

I realize it will have grown and changed to some degree, but I wonder if it's developed the "edge" Bangkok perhaps and Phnom Penh seem to have developed -- as remarked also by other people on these forums. Also, if prices have remained more or less the same, or if they've doubled and more in some cases like in Bangkok and Phnom Penh. I'm finding people trying to get me to pay more than I would in Canada for things here. I have some experience in Asia, but even still. The experience can be unpleasant.

If anyone else out there has 10 years or more of experience visiting / living in Chiang Rai or other Southeast Asia cities, maybe you can comment? Thanks for any advice.

[daveAustin]

Considering the explosion of the expat populace in Chiang Mai over the last 10 years (thanks in part to that stupid 'live for a $1000/pm' article), I'm guessing a fair few would have made their way to CR. Having said that, I can't see it turning into a mini-Bangkok any time soon. Prices are still cheaper in the north, afaia, and it will always be more civilized and cultured... certainly more so than the Thai south. Strewth!

[villagefarang]

Like everywhere else Chiangrai has changed a lot in the last 10 years.

[sceadugenga]

More houses, more cars, more people....

[bbudd]

like most places-more people higher costs

Still better and cheaper than the south I figure

[villagefarang]

As Scea said, more houses, more cars, more people.

Also better shopping, more restaurants, more roads, taxis, better internet, more cyclists and health conscious people, generally more options on most things than you had before. The quality of life is improving in my opinion.

New arrivals are shifting toward those who appreciate nature and quality of life, not necessarily looking for the cheapest of the cheap.

[Stevemercer]

In my humble opinion, Chang Rai is fast developing into a mini Chang Mai. But it is still cheaper and about 10 years behind. The Chinese influences and wealth is becoming more obvious because it is on the regular tourist route for drivers and buses coming overland from China.

[sceadugenga]

To get the best of both worlds you have to live out of town a bit, the quiet life of rural Thailand and a short drive to the benefits of the big city.

The trouble is that the necessary short drive is becoming longer and longer.

[mihalis]

Ummm, no where is the same as is was !!

[wileycoyote]

Chiang Rai is wonderful

[Expat Rob]

After living 13 years in Bangkok I moved to Chiang Rai two years ago. Chiang Rai has everything one could need and is surrounding by lovely mountains and nature. In addition the immigration office is a dream to deal with. Very glad to have made the move.