Thailand » Living in Chiang Mai

Living in Chiang Mai

With a population of 700,000, Chiang Mai is just a little larger than Portland. But it feels more like Eugene. Chiang Mai is a very “approachable” city. It’s easy to get around and the people are generally friendly.

Chiang Mai features a broad range of Thai, Asian and Western restaurants. Shopping options range from daily farmers’ markets to nightly crafts bazaars (for tourists), and Chiang Mai features a large modern five story mall, complete with movie theater!

The city's relaxed atmosphere brings many opportunities for U.S. students to get involved in life outside of campus. Previous students have enrolled in local kick boxing clubs, volunteered orphanages. The city’s natural setting offers a number of outdoor activities from rock climbing, hiking and mountain biking to cricket, golf, elephant treks, and rafting.

The Location

Chiang Mai is located in a valley between three mountain ranges. The area’s climate is more moderate than will be found elsewhere in the country. The winter lows may be in the forties or fifties; summer highs are in the 90s. There are said to be three seasons in Chiang Mai: the summers are hot and humid, the falls bring the rainy monsoon seasons, and the winters are cool and dry.

Accommodations

Students have typically been housed in the Payap University International House, although Payap recently started a homestay program as well. The international house is a new and modern building located adjacent to the main campus. Students living in the dorm may elect to have a Thai or international roommate.

On-Site Support

The Thai and SE Asian Studies program is geared to providing students with a variety of cultural introductions to Thailand. Payap’s small size and dedicated staff offer a personalized and supportive environment for US students.