Chiang Mai is my favorite spot in the world. It combines the peace of the mountains and nature surrounding it with the convenience of a medium-sized city. Not surprisingly, many expats flock here. The old town and Nimman area are full of workspaces and cute cafes where you can meet other digital nomads and foreigners moving here in general. Of course, there are also lots of temples and tours you can join for amazing experiences.
But if you are craving being more of a traveler than a tourist, and blending in instead of hanging out with expats, I recommend some of the activities below to make you feel like you are actually part of Chiang Mai’s rhythm. They are not necessarily super grassroots Thai, but reflect what a typical local person does in their free time.
Take Muay Thai Classes
Let’s start with something that does not fall far from what you are expecting. Maybe practicing Muay Thai was the reason you even came to Thailand in the first place!
There are several local gyms that will make you feel like an authentic Thai as you learn how to fight. I admit I haven’t done it myself yet; I’m still waiting for that fighter inside me to wake up 🙂 But if you feel the call, go for it!
Learn Buddhism
One of my favorite things about Thai culture is how much of their values are rooted in Buddhism. Even if modern living has pulled people a bit further away from it, you can tell those values still inform them.
Some ways to learn Buddhism in Chiang Mai (aside from visiting a temple or joining a monk chat) include participating in a Vipassana retreat or Buddhism classes. Some places that offer these are:
- Wat Umong Meditation Center: Offers Vipassana (insight) meditation retreats and courses.
- Wat Suan Dok Meditation Retreat: A two-day retreat that introduces meditation techniques and Buddhist philosophy.
- International Buddhism Center at Wat Ram Poeng: Known for intensive Vipassana meditation retreats lasting 10 days or more.
Karaoke
I’d say the Filipinos are stronger in the karaoke scene, but I can tell Thais also enjoy a good karaoke night. So, maybe learn some Thai songs so everybody can sing along when it’s your turn to perform!
Go to the Movies
This is the kind of thing that only makes sense if you are staying long enough, of course. After all, they probably have movie theaters where you come from! But what I am suggesting here is for you to go watch a Thai movie! Many theaters offer them with English subtitles – you’ll definitely find them at the SFX in Maya Mall.
Take a Break at Chiang Mai University
Chiang Mai University has a nice green area with a lake in the middle. It’s amazing for enjoying some refreshing drinks on a sunny morning or going for a sunset walk.
Play Takraw
Takraw is a local ball game, and I’m not going to tell you that I’ve tried it myself – it seems like too much to ask from my coordination skills. But it is definitely nice to watch, and maybe you are braver than me and can give it a try! Locals usually play it early in the mornings or in the evening at Buak Haad Park.
Go for a Walk in the Princess Mother Health Garden
Although it is located in Nimman, this park is usually only frequented by locals (may I not be spoiling that with this post!).
It is a nice location to go for a run or exercise in general. But what I like the most about it is the Medicinal Plant Garden, located in the southwestern corner. With several medicinal plants and signs explaining them, it’s a way to enjoy nature and learn some local wisdom.
Learn How to Make a Painted Umbrella
Paper umbrellas are a very traditional part of Thai culture – there is even a festival for them, the Bo Sang, that happens one weekend in January. To watch it, you will have to go around 8 km outside the center of Chiang Mai, to the Bo Sang Village.
During the rest of the year, you can visit the Sa Paper & Umbrella Handicraft Center to watch their entirely handmade umbrella fabrication process. You can even get a painted phone cover there! They also host workshops, so you can bring home an umbrella designed by you.
Coffee Shops
I am not talking about Starbucks, of course. Naturally, coffee shops are magnets for digital nomads! But locals also enjoy their cup of coffee a lot, especially near student areas.
Orange and coconut water coffees are signature options in Chiang Mai. Try them with a taro cake for dessert, and you’ll be just like a local!
Markets
This one is probably already on your list, but I’d like to reinforce: food markets are the go-to for Thais, and they are absolutely amazing!
I hope this was helpful, and that you enjoy life in Chiang Mai!
