Aydan Stuart

Chiang Mai’s calendar is bursting this week, with everything from world-class stand-up to fine wine dinners and art-fuelled community projects. Whether you’re here for fun and to discover new tribes or prefer to rock out to live music that refuses to fit in a single genre, there are experiences aplenty if you know where to look. 

Chiang Mai’s got no shortage of good eats, but when the chefs are as obsessed with the origin of their ingredients as they are with flavour, you know you’re in for something special.  From wild salad plucked fresh from the mountains to complex 360-degree systems that leave nothing but a crumb of food waste, some of Chiang Mai’s most exciting kitchens are shrinking the distance between farm and fork in ways that actually make sense. Think high-rise romance over sunset dinners, long lunches that roll lazily into the afternoon and menus built entirely on local, seasonal, socially-conscious ingredients. With that much goodness baked into the concept alone, just imagine how good your soul’s going to feel once you’ve cleared your plate.

Rooftop bars can be often overlooked by visitors to Chiang Mai who assume our low-rise cityscape has little to offer above eye level. But look up and there’s a lot of fun to be had atop our taller hotels and Old City townhouses. What’s better than sitting above it all, cocktail in hand, enjoying the purple hues of sunset over Doi Suthep? Answer: not much. So with that in mind, let’s elevate your weekend (or week, we’re not judging) with a cocktail or two at the city’s best and most eclectic rooftop bars. 

Chiang Mai may be laid-back by day, but after dark the city reveals a more mysterious side. Tucked behind unmarked doors, winding alleys and quiet staircases are some of the city’s most intriguing watering holes – places where the cocktails are serious, the lights are low and finding the entrance will require a bit of detective work. From speakeasy-style lounges with live jazz to minimalist hideaways in heritage buildings, these hidden bars are where Chiang Mai’s creative energy and nightlife scene quietly thrive. You won’t find big signs or flashing lights – these spots may appear on Google Maps, but good luck finding your way in. If you don’t know the secret, you could be pushing bookshelves or following mysterious red lanterns like moths to a flame. We’ll give you a hint, but it’s the whisper of music down an otherwise empty alley that will be your beacon call.  Once you eventually find your way inside, cocktails laden with the best liquor available to man are to be found – from rare international reserves to our favourite locally distilled spirit, Sonklin, from Choeng Doi Distillery just up the road. With a bit of planning (and some comfortable shoes), it’s entirely possible to turn these tucked-away gems into a weekend-long bar crawl – or even squeeze into one night if you’re feeling brave. Instead, we’d opt for a relaxed weekend of shaken drinks, sultry jazz and mysterious discoveries made by candlelight.

Pizza. It’s a staple among almost all cultures. From questionable 2am slices from delivery chains that hit just right after a few towers of beer to artisanal, hand-crafted sourdough pies that practically demand a knife and fork they’re so fancy, there seems to be a love for this food that transcends social status. Uncles, aunties, politicians, teens, kids, tourists and locals – they all love a pizza pie and, honestly, so do we.  So, without further ado, here’s our best list of pizza spots in and around Chiang Mai that hit the spot on many levels, from that gloriously gooey grease-topped New York special to the crispiest of thin crusts topped with a whole burrata. Whatever form your pizza craving comes in, these are the slices that deliver the goods.

Ok, full disclosure, I don’t frequent nail bars too often. Although, with a wife, daughter and mother at home, I do probably visit them more than many other cisgender males. Either way, for the sake of accuracy, I’ve teamed up with my most informed nail bar addicts to bring together a list of Chiang Mai’s best nail bars this side of 2025. And while this list is not exhaustive, it is growing every day, so bookmark and revisit every time those ten shimmering finger ends need a little colour or pizzazz. 

If there’s one thing Chiang Mai does better than most, it’s markets. From indie design pop-ups to full-on street takeovers, the city comes alive every weekend with stalls, snacks and surprises to suit every kind of shopper.  Whether you're after stylish homemade threads, organic veggies, vintage vinyl or a steaming bag of sai-oua saussage, there’s a market with your name on it somewhere in the north. To help you narrow it down, we’ve rounded up the best in one handy list. Now all you need to do is prepare some cash, sling on a tote bag and bring your best bargain-hunting energy.  

Chiang Mai has played a larger role in cinema than you might expect. With its stunning temples, charming streets, picturesque villages and sweeping mountain ranges, this northern gem is a favorite for filmmakers seeking the perfect backdrop. Often, Chiang Mai has doubled as a stand-in for its tropical neighbors like Laos, Cambodia, or Myanmar – likely due to enticing tax incentives and affordable accommodations. But here, we set aside those ‘stand-in’ roles to spotlight films where Chiang Mai takes centre stage, proudly showcasing its unique beauty and character. Whether you're reminiscing about a recent trip or simply looking to channel that Leo DiCaprio whistle-point meme from your couch, here’s a list of some of the best films that capture Chiang Mai in all its northern splendour.

Aside from its physical charms of temples and cultural spectacles, Chiang Mai boasts a distinctive culinary culture – one that spans both local, northern delights and an eclectic take on almost every international cuisine.  Add in influences from border states such as Myanmar, Laos and, culturally at least, China, the local food takes a unique approach to the more traditional Thai flavours found in Bangkok.  Khao soi, the rich coconut curry noodle soup, is a common forerunner for northern food fans, alongside sai oua (northern spicy sausage), gaeng hanglay (a rich pork belly curry imported from the Shan state) and laap krua (a cumin-rich take on the Thai spicy meat salad).  Yet beyond the local favourites sits menu upon menu of exceptionally good food that celebrates cuisines and creations the world over. Over the last few years, Chiang Mai has boomed as a destination for good food, with both fine-dining restaurants and roadside gems garnering international acclaim from the likes of Michelin, Tattler and Thailand’s Favourite Restaurant Awards.  To celebrate Chiang Mai’s burgeoning food scene, we’ve rounded up the best places to eat across the city. Yes, there’s more to life here than just khao soi – but don’t worry, we’ve got that covered too. From street-side staples to low-key fine dining, this list proves you don’t need white tablecloths to eat well in the north.

Chiang Mai doesn’t just celebrate Songkran – it owns it. With the Old City moat as the main splash zone, you’ll find temple ceremonies and cultural parades dominate the formalities while open-air DJ sets and street-wide water fights let you go full party mode.  This year, we’re ditching the tourist dos and don’ts and going full throttle into what really matters – a hit list of the best events, parties, parades and moat-side chaos that makes Songkran in Chiang Mai so iconic. Here’s everything you need to know about where to go, what’s happening, and how to celebrate Songkran in Chiang Mai this year – be it loud, local or absolutely drenched. If you have an event and want us to add it to the list, email aydan@timeoutthailand.com to get it added! 

It’s that time of year once again to dig out your old floral shirt, buy a new water gun and hit the streets of Chiang Mai for another round of water splashing fun – said to be the city’s biggest yet!  Often topping lists of best cities to ‘do’ Songkran, you’ll find water fights happening on just about every street in Chiang Mai during the almost week-long event; there are a few key spots where the chaos levels peak.  April 13-15 are the official dates for the festival but Chiang Mai usually starts early, with people getting wet and parties to be found from as early as April 11 this year. So take your fun to the absolute next level with our top picks for free places to jump into the action this year, Chiang Mai style.   

The legendary Chiang Mai International Cricket Sixes is back this weekend for its 35th year, bringing a lively mix of amateur and semi-pro cricketers from across the globe to the city for one of the world’s most iconic amateur cricket tournaments. From March 30 to April 5, the historic Gymkhana Club will be transformed into a buzzing blend of big hits, boundary cheers and a fair few icy beers at the event’s very own Boundary Bar. But for those who’ve never been, or simply have no clue about the complexities of cricket, things can get a little overwhelming. So whether you’re here to swing a bat, cheer from the sidelines or just soak up the festive vibes, this is our go-to guide for everything you need to know about the Chiang Mai Cricket Sixes 2025 – from match schedules and team intel to where to grab a bite between innings or do a vodka slammer with the teams.

Join Red Box as they team up with Blackbird Wines for an evening of fine vintages and contemporary Thai gastronomy. Treat yourself to a six-course tasting menu where every dish is thoughtfully paired to bring out the character of each pour. Blackbird Wines – a boutique Napa Valley producer celebrated for its Bordeaux-inspired blends – brings a touch of California craftsmanship to the glass, while Red Box chefs work their magic with food. Sep 20. B4,500 per person (six-course menu with wine pairings). Red Box. 6.30pm onwards.

Creativity takes centre stage as Addict Art Studio transforms into a hub of workshops, live music and pop-up art experiences – all in the name of supporting children’s right to education. From linocut printing and collage-making to stencil art and live painting, the programme is packed with opportunities to learn, play and create. Alongside the hands-on fun, expect a mini craft market, experimental live sets and performances from local and international artists. Proceeds from the weekend go towards improving learning environments and providing resources for kids in remote areas. Sep 20. B20 entry, donations welcome. Addict Art Studio. 2pm-10.30pm

The Comedy Club Bangkok is back in the north again, this time bringing along with them the internationally renowned comedian Ahmed Ahmed for one night only. With more than 30 years on the circuit – from Netflix and Showtime specials to the groundbreaking Axis of Evil Comedy Tour that drew over 20,000 people and aired on Comedy Central – Ahmed delivers razor-sharp laughs with global flair. Needless to say, comedy in Chiang Mai is here to stay.  Sep 20. B600-900. Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel. 8pm onwards.

Chiang Mai’s most paw-some party of the month is finally here, with two evenings dedicated to pets and their people. Whether your little friend has four feet or none, bring them along and enjoy activities, talks and plenty of tail-wagging fun. Aside from the festive, exotic offerings, there are also free health check-ups for cats and dogs courtesy of Cozy & Care Pet Hospital, as well as talks on special care and even a beautiful smile dog contest – so be sure to brush those gnashers before you arrive. Sep 18-19. Free. Jing Jai Market. 4pm-8pm. 

Calling all Spartan race warriors – this free community workout at Training Box Chiang Mai brings together competitors and fitness enthusiasts to get ready for the famous obstacle race later this month. Training includes obstacle course techniques, motivational drills and expert tips from Spartan brand ambassadors. Expect sweat, grit and plenty of team spirit at the workout that’ll no doubt convert into competitive drive.  Sep 20. Free. Registration required here. Training Box Chiang Mai – New Born. 9am-11am. 

Spend three immersive hours with Uri Herbs in a workshop filled with creation, laughter and indulgence. You'll learn the secrets of aromatherapy as you craft three natural products. After carefully tweaking your personal scents, enjoy a light meal with hot and cold drinks, accompanied by music to enhance the creative atmosphere. To conclude the evening, take home a luxurious basket with your handcrafted products and recipe cards to continue your creations at home. Sep 11. B1380, women only. Sri Phum corner (location revealed on booking). 6pm-9pm  

Love it or hate it, the star of InterCon’s afternoon tea this month is the Jackfruit. Smelly, strong but devilishly versatile, who knew this tropical fruit could be so chic? All September long, sample this Thai twist on the classic afternoon tea with servings of sweet and savoury bites inspired by the golden-hued fruit. Tea and coffee are included but add a bit of bubble to proceedings with a sparkling glass of prosecco. It is the weekend after all.   1-30 Sep. B950 per person (B1,150 with a glass of prosecco). KAM Lobby Lounge, InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping.   

Chiang Mai’s quirkiest new festival is here, and it’s not short on surprises. Over three days, the Moo Get Fair lights up the International Convention Centre out on the canal road with some uniquely eccentric northern-Thai style competitions. Over three days, the market and event hall will feature teen cover dance battles, larb cookoff competitions and the exceptional Thida Maha Moo – where beauty pageant hopefuls show off their best mystical arts live on stage. This festival blends performance, talent and Lanna identity through a dazzling lineup of competitive nonsense.  Sep 12-14. Free. Chiang Mai International Convention Centre. 10am-9pm.  

Set yourself up for a genre-bending night that swerves from art rock to acid jazz with a heavy dose of OriginaLive weirdness in between. Mosey on down to the moat for a triple bill of bands, featuring Boy Paco, Born in Burma and Chiang Mai legends, Terror Terror. Pulling from all three corners of the city’s underground music scene, this is no doubt an eclectic ride best enjoyed with friends.  Sep 12. B200. Chiang Mai OriginaLive. 8pm-late.   

Chiang Mai’s favourite climbing gym is turning one, and they’re throwing a neon-lit bash to celebrate. From 3pm, DJs from Poy Fest (sampling their sets for the upcoming Poy Festival in December) join forces with DJ Aku to bring the beats, setting the soundtrack for games, prizes, lucky draws and a special night climb under blacklights. The dress code is neon – of course – so come glowing for a climb. Scale walls at 5.30pm on a headlamp climb or just vibe with the Main Wall fam.  Sep 13. Party access comes with a day pass and equipment hire (free for members with gear). Main Wall Climbing Gym. 4pm-8pm.   

Swap your shoes for a swimsuit and head to ARISE Rooftop Bar for an open-house pool party that brings summer Latin vibes to our beloved northern Thai city. Expect salsa, bachata, kizomba, reggaeton and Brazilian funk playing all afternoon long, with DJ D spinning from 4pm and DJ FuFu taking over from 6.30pm. Float, sip, dance or just soak up the good vibes – no ticket or invite required, but it’s easy to support the venue by buying a drink or two at the bar. Sep 13. Free. ARISE Rooftop Bar, AManor Hotel. 3pm-9pm

Anantara Chiang Mai transforms its historic teak mansion into a hub of creativity this September with Artistry in Bloom – a month-long program featuring free live concerts from young classical musicians from Prem International School. Enjoy the ‘Whispers of the East’ afternoon tea where you can paint your own edible canvas, and ‘MĀEYE: The Eye That Sees with Love’, a moving exhibition by artist Hom Nguyen exploring the bond between mother and child.  Sep 6-30 (concerts Sep 6 and 13). Free, schedule here. Anantara Chiang Mai Resort.

If you thought that Warm Up was only about rock riffs and EDM drops, think again. This month, the city’s favourite nightclub is flipping the script by hosting the legendary ‘50s doo-wop band The Platters for the first time in Chiang Mai history.  The Platters Experience – Sleepy Lagoon brings the timeless sound of the oldies to the city later this month with a live concert at Warmup Cafe across two matinee shows on Sep 20-21.  Tickets cost B2,500 and promise an exclusive experience with the inclusion of premium Martell cognac, fine wines, tasty snacks and a jazzy warm-up ensemble before the main act. Better yet, part of the proceeds go directly to Mae On Hospital to help renovate their outpatient wing. It’s giving good vibes with good intentions. Photograph: The Platters With seating capped at just 150 per show, exclusivity is the name of the game. For two nights only, this is likely the first (and possibly last) time Chiang Mai gets to hear these iconic harmonies live. Don’t sleep on this one. With an evolving line up of band members, their hits remain eternal. Expect spine-tingling renditions of classics like ‘Only You’, ‘The Great Pretender’, and ‘Smoke Gets in Your Eyes’.  Secure your spot by calling 02-113-1234 or messaging the dedicated ticket booking LINE account @theplatterscnx. 

Visitors and locals of Chiang Mai have been advised to avoid the city centre and stay at home as floodwater caused by tropical storm Kajiki leaves many parts of the city submerged.  Heavy rains showered down on Chiang Mai today leaving roads and canals unable to drain fast enough, resulting in citywide flooding.  Authorities have warned of continued heavy rains over the coming days and advise people to avoid the city centre wherever possible. As of today, many cars, properties and public spaces have been submerged by up to one metre in flood water.  Photograph: Traffic Radio Chiang Mai This year, Chiang Mai has been inundated with floods on many occasions, with December last year seeing the largest flood the city has seen for centuries.  Since then, drainage and flood defences have struggled to cope, leaving the city open to more chances of flooding – something many believe to be here for the long-run. Hopefully the rain clears and the flooding subsides fast, just in time for a weekend of city-based fun and parties.

After months of pursuing side projects, Yellow Fang are back – and their comeback tour is tearing through Thailand with the same bite and brilliance that made them a national favourite. Formed in Bangkok back in their uni days, this all-female alt-rock group quickly rose in the charts thanks to their alternative, gender-bending mix of rock, dream pop, lo-fi, shoegaze and atmospheric guitar textures that defined a generation of indie artists in their wake last decade. Their discography – including standout album The Greatest – has made international strides in recent years as the genre resurfaced into pop culture once again, with tours of Tokyo, Malaysia and even further afield over the last half a decade.  Photograph: Yellow Fang When is Yellow Fang playing in Chiang Mai? Yellow Fang is scheduled to take the stage in Chiang Mai on September 20, with a live performance at Muan More Space, Central Chiangmai Airport. Fans can look forward to hearing all their favourite tunes from ‘Unreal’ to ‘I Don’t Know’ as well as a supporting act from Chiang Mai dreampop band srwks. in partnership with Oversee.  Where to get tickets to see Yellow Fang in Chiang Mai? Tickets for Yellow Fang went live today (Aug 13) and are already selling out fast. They’re available for purchase through Ticket Melon. Grab yours here. Ticket prices As soon as the ticket sales opened, earlybird and Phase Two tickets have now already sold out.  Phase Three tickets are live and on sale for B450 per person, with

Last week, a clever and wildly popular venture that saw young Thais selling fresh hot coffee at traffic junctions in Chiang Mai hit a red light after police abruptly shut down the operation. However, undeterred by the setback, Chef James Noble, the founder and creative force behind viral sensation Rocket Coffee, is channeling his inner ikigai to reimagine the project and ensure ongoing success for his fast-growing network of empowered entrepreneurial baristas. Photograph: Chiang Mai News The Rocket Coffee phenomenon For the last few months, Rocket Coffee has appeared at red light junctions in Chiang Mai, serving fresh, hot coffee from a rocket-like backpack barista setup to drivers stuck in traffic, straight through their car windows.  As the queues grew, so did the craving for coffee – inspiring Noble and a team of empowered young Thais to join fellow doughnut and Yakult vendors at red lights through a brand new worker-first franchise that generates real income for those otherwise without work.  While Thais took to the streets with their very own equipment, behind the scenes Noble was working hard to maintain quality – importing equipment from Germany and working with local farmers to source and perfect their blend of single origin northern Thai coffee beans.  For under B100,000, anyone could buy and launch their own Rocket Coffee franchise. A price that includes barista training, the branding, portable backpack equipment and the support of a purpose-driven community roote

Chiang Mai is slated to become the entertainment capital of Thailand, and possibly Southeast Asia following a landmark film partnership memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed between Hylife Group and the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF).  Northern Thailand has always been a popular destination for Thai and International filmmakers thanks to its diverse setting, natural surroundings and cheap rates. We covered Chiang Mai on the silver screen in a recent top 12 film list, and that’s just the movies that directly reference the city in their script. Other films like Rambo, American Gangster, Twilight over Burma and Into the Sun were also filmed in our northern province with their stories set elsewhere. So, in a bid to decentralise big industry and capitalise on the popularity of Chiang Mai among filmmakers, Hylife Group – Chiang Mai’s leading conglomerate in real estate, asset management and manufacturing – has struck a deal with Korea’s BIFF, signing an MOU to join forces as key industry partners to position Chiang Mai as a premier entertainment hub in Asia.  Other signatories included K Wave Media, Solaire Partners and Lewis Pictures – three more big industry players that will help solidify this powerful alliance and advance the regional film industry. Under the broader citywide ‘Creative Chiang Mai’ campaign, this historic agreement aims to attract more international film investment, develop training platforms for local professionals and drive job creation.  The firs

Chiang Dao may not be the first place you think of when it comes to fine alcohol production. Its towering mountains and backwater vibes give off more ‘moonshine’ than ‘micro-distillery’ – but hidden just outside of town is a small-batch operation that, despite very strict Thai alcohol production laws, is creating contemporary spirits that exceed all expectations. What better way to spend a weekend than to see it for myself – from planting rice to bottling the final drop of Sonklin, their signature spirit crafted entirely from Sanpatong sticky rice. The result? A boozy, belly-laughing trip that showed me a new side of Chiang Dao where we spent days fermenting, distilling, condensing and popping corks in more ways than one. Photograph: Time Out Step one: Fermentation Any good spirit starts with some fermentation – a bubbling, transformative process that brings that which is inside, out. The same could be said about travelling, which is why a quick soak in the Chiang Dao hot springs helped ease myself into the trip, like an overripe plum preparing to pickle. Spirit lifted and pores open, I made my way to Choeng Doi Distillery for another, more uplifting experience – and not just because of the boozy vapour in the air.  Unlike other distilleries I’ve visited in Thailand, there were no fires burning over blackened stainless steel pots or shelves of old sticky rice bags and questionable permits collecting dust. On the contrary, it was a clean, meticulously planned operation that

Chiang Mai Zoo is gearing up to welcome two new pandas later this year, gifted from China to mark the 50th anniversary of Thai-Chinese diplomatic relations, according to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra.  In a bid to ensure the pandas are safely and comfortably enclosed, the The Zoological Park Organisation of Thailand is investing B110 million to construct expansive, nature-inspired enclosures designed to meet the pandas' needs. This time around, it is hoped that animal welfare will be just as closely watched as the pandas themselves. Chiang Mai Zoo has historically been the host for Chinese-gifted pandas over the years, namely Xuang Xuang and Lin Hui who captivated over seven million visitors and even produced a cub in 2009.  For many, the love for Lin Hui reached fever pitch of Moo Deng-like proportions and became a furry symbol of Thai-Chinese relations. Born at the Giant Panda Research and Conservation Centre in Sichuan, China, she arrived in Chiang Mai in 2003 as part of a high-profile ten-year loan agreement worth one million dollars annually.  However, just before she was set to return to China in 2023, Lin Hui tragically passed away at the zoo following a sudden nosebleed. A joint investigation by Thai and Chinese experts later confirmed her passing was due to age-related complications. Since then the panda enclosure has remained eerily quiet, so the upcoming arrival of the new pandas is expected to incite panda-monium in Chiang Mai, boost tourism and further re

A little bit frisbee, a little bit golf – disc golf is catching on fast. This low-pressure, highly-addictive sport blends precision, power and playfulness in equal measure. And while it’s growing across Thailand, Chiang Mai is quietly becoming the country’s disc golf capital – home to one of the most passionate and well-established communities around. Photograph: Kingsley Flett What even is disc golf? If you’re imagining golf with frisbees, you’re not far off. The game essentially follows similar rules to the great game, aside from players throwing discs (smaller, denser versions of your beach frisbee) towards a standing metal basket in the fewest number of throws possible. Depending on how serious you get, most players carry around with them a hefty number of discs, all slightly different in size and weight, acting as drivers, midrangers and putters. The scoring system mirrors traditional golf, but the vibe is far more laid-back.  The terrain matters too. Unlike golf’s pristine fairways, disc golf thrives in forests, fields and unusual natural settings – in Chiang Mai this means wild parks, dense woodlands and watery mountain foothills. Outside of Chiang Mai, disc golf can be found on almost every continent. According to the Professional Disc Golf Association, Ed Headrick is widely considered the father of disc golf and founded the sport in the United States some ten years after patenting the first-ever frisbee in 1966. Today, 85% of all disc golf courses are in the US, Fi

Helmet wearing on motorbikes has been the law for decades in Thailand, but there are still a significant number of people who choose to ride without protecting their heads. In a bid to reduce the number of helmetless wearing bikers, the Royal Thai Police have announced new, higher priced fines for those who flaunt the rules. From June 1, people riding a motorcycle without a helmet will be liable for a fine of up to B2,000 as part of a new ‘Safe Roads Project’ implemented across the nation. Fines can also double to B4,000 if both rider and passenger are not wearing a helmet.  To ensure public safety and confidence in the project, the Traffic Police Hotline is available day and night at 1197, ready to answer questions or receive reports on traffic-related issues.

The story of Chiang Mai Pride isn’t just about rainbow flags and fabulous outfits. It’s about protest, perseverance and the beginnings of Thailand’s modern LGBTQ+ rights movement. What started as a Mardi Gras parade in February 2009 soon hit the headlines as Thailand’s biggest social flashpoints for LGBTQ+ rights. Local backlash over what was perceived as the ‘sexualisation’ of the streets clashed with a community eager to celebrate its freedom and visibility. Tensions escalated into threats and then politically-driven mobs armed with stones and other weapons descended on the parade organisers and participants who ultimately sought refuge in the Phutthasathan Chiang Mai Monastery.  Shocking some, impressing others, the now-infamous standoff mob leaders demanded the LGBTQ+ participants prostrate in apology and vow not to hold a Pride parade for the next 1,500 years, or they would maintain the siege and threaten more violence. Needless to say, the LGBTQ+ activists didn’t give in, eventually escaping the mobs by jumping the temple walls and seeking refuge in the homes of local allies. Sirisak ‘Ton’ Chaited – the organiser of Chiang Mai Pride from then until now – was the last person standing, letting a single balloon fly as a signal of resistance before the standoff finally ended.  That moment sparked the formation of Sao Saw Et (Thai: เสาร์ซาวเอ็ด which means ‘Saturday 21’ in northern dialect), an organisation founded by the core leaders of Chiang Mai’s first Pride event aimed

It turns out those tourist TikTokers were onto something – Chiang Mai has been named the safest city in Southeast Asia, according to global statistics platform Numbeo.  Outranking even Singapore, Chiang Mai secured the top spot with impressively low crime scores across the board. The rankings are based on data evaluating crime rates, day and night safety, a sense of security reported by locals and visitors, and the severity of property and violent crimes. Numbeo’s safety index compiles five years of data, converting it into a convenient score out of 100. Chiang Mai leads the list with a score of 78.2, narrowly ahead of Singapore and Hanoi. Here are the top safest cities in Southeast Asia, according to Numbeo’s safety index: Chiang Mai, Thailand (78.2)  Singapore (77.4) Hanoi, Vietnam (65.9) Bangkok, Thailand (60.7) Pattaya, Thailand (53.9) While crimes like theft, bribery, and vandalism have seen slight increases over the past five years, violent crimes such as assault and robbery remain classified as ‘very low’ in Chiang Mai. And while we all should remain wary and on guard, this update means we can all relax a little more next time we end up down the wrong alley or forget our phone in a red songtaew. 

In response to the limited warnings following the recent earthquake that damaged homes and caused a building to collapse, the Thai government has developed a nationwide phone broadcast alert system that will send critical warning messages directly to mobile phones nationwide. To test the system, and to inform the public of the system’s existence, the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) will test these alarm systems on May 7 and May 13, covering various geographical areas each time.  When tested, your phone will emit an attention-grabbing alert sound along with a bilingual emergency notification on screen that reads: ‘This is a test message from the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM). No action required.’  Alerts on May 7 will be broadcast at 1pm in the following areas: Muang District, Lampang Muang District, Nakhon Ratchasima Muang District, Nakhon Sawan Muang District, Surat Thani Din Deng District, Bangkok Alerts on May 13 will be broadcast at 1pm in the following areas: Chiang Mai Province Ayutthaya Province Udon Thani Province Nakhon Si Thammarat Province Bangkok