Our friend, who is being priced out of living locally, is relocating to Thailand early next year. I suggested my wife join her in her search for that great place to live and perhaps tour the country before Alison settles in Chiang Mai. She has agreed and the two will be off to Thailand in February.

Chiang Mai is in the northern part of the country far from the Gulf of Thailand, which would more interest me. The cost of living in Chang Mai is low and accomodations appear to be very modern (if web photos are to be believed, more to follow). Studios can be had for around $7,500 THB (around $230 USD). A nicely furnished 1 br apartment can run around $450 USD.

Can you imagine living in Thailand for two months for $900? One night stay at the Intercontinental Hotel Bangkok is $200.

The two gals are planning a tour of the area which will include phuket; Angkor Wat, Cambodia; and stops in Viet Nam. I am a bit jealous and could join them, but they are old friends and having time alone together is a good thing. For me work still gets in the way…

I don’t really know how Alison chose Chiang Mai or if she will be happy once she gets there and stays for a few weeks or months. It will be very interesting to follow her adventure and visit from time to time. I wish her well and expect she will find what she is looking for… and who doesn’t like Thai cuisine?