Chiang Mai, also known as the "Rose of the North," is the second largest city in Thailand. Rife with markets, bazaars and walking streets, there is always a bargain to be found. Public transportation is easily found throughout the city. Food stalls are abundant with cheap dishes available on almost every main street.
A wide variety of housing can be found around the city. One-bedroom serviced apartments to luxury condominiums and rental homes, both in gated communities and dotted throughout neighboring villages, are easily available to rent. The prices range from low-end local costs, which usually include a manual flush toilet and an outdoor kitchen, to high-end luxury prices for resort living.
Thai law allows foreigners to only purchase condominiums. Foreigners are not allowed to purchase land, though there are often cases of foreigners marrying a Thai national and purchasing a home through their spouse.
Visa and political situations change frequently and should be investigated thoroughly prior to making an investment in Thailand. Foreigners may not work in Thailand without a work permit and visa, which need to be attained prior to arrival.
The belief that Thailand is cheap because it is a developing country is not necessarily true. Though it is possible to restrain spending to the equivalent of $5 a day to eat local food, it is about the same price for food and entertainment that you would find in the United States. Medical care is much cheaper, yet not as advanced as in the Western world. Private schools are the same cost as, if not more expensive than, their counterparts in the United States.
Several directors have taken advantage of the natural beauty and access to elephants in Thailand to produce films such as "Bangkok Dangerous," "Rambo IV," "American Gangster," "Alexander," "Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason," "Around the World in 80 Days," "Tomorrow Never Dies" and "The Beach."
