Chiang Mai ranked among top budget-friendly retirement locations

The lively and diverse city of Chiang Mai in Thailand has been listed among 13 budget-friendly global locations where couples can retire and live comfortably on a modest sum of US$1,500 per month, according to a new survey from International Living. The city, an eclectic mix of Thai, Chinese, Indian, and foreign residents, is celebrated for its rich history, culture, and affordability.

The allure of Chiang Mai lies not only in its vibrant history and culture but also in its affordability. The cost of housing in Chiang Mai is a mere US$300 per month which equates to approximately 10,000 baht. This makes the city a magnet for retirees seeking a comfortable and rewarding lifestyle that is financially within reach. The experience of living in Chiang Mai is further enriched by the charm and beauty of an interesting culture.

The survey employed seven benchmarks to assess the suitability of various global locations for retirees. These benchmarks include visas and benefits, cost of living, affinity rating, healthcare, development and governance, climate, and availability of high-speed internet.

The study, which examined 200 countries worldwide, identified 13 destinations where retired couples can live comfortably on just US$1,500 per month. In addition to the aforementioned factors, International Living also took into account the networking opportunities and the availability of local people or English-speaking service providers in each country, reported The Pattaya News.

The 13 budget-friendly international retirement destinations, where couples can live comfortably on as little as US$1,500 per month, include Penang in Malaysia, Chiang Mai in Thailand, Phnom Penh in Cambodia, Kuching in Malaysia, Hoi An in Vietnam, Querétaro in Mexico, Isla Mujeres in Mexico, Cozumel in Mexico, Armenia in Colombia, Arenal in Costa Rica, Alicante in Spain, and Granada in Spain.

In related news, anticipation builds as the Songkran festival in Chiang Mai, set to span 10 days, is projected to pull in millions of tourists, raking in an estimated 20 billion baht in revenue.