Guest Taschizzie Posted July 27, 2009 Posted July 27, 2009 I'm heading back to LOS in two months and after living in Bangkok (big and busy) and Pattaya (a bit too frenetic), I've decided to check out Chiang Mai as a place to retire to. On paper, it seems to be a decent size and fairly laid back. Naturally, setting up a new home in a new city, only visited occasionally previously, presents a whole variety of challenges and a place to stay is the first one. I'll start off in a rented apartment at first then, should I decide that CM is the place for me, move on from there to a house or a condo. Can anyone enlighten me as to what area in the city they would suggest that I live in and, even better, does anyone know of a spot or a rental agent that they can recommend? How about a "motocy" rental outlet for a 3 or 4 month lease so that I can explore what may be my new permanent home? If you can help, your Karma will grow, and I promise to paint your toenails red and then scatter rose petals at your feet while declaiming that you are a prince (or princess, up to you) among men. TIA.... Quote
KhorTose Posted July 27, 2009 Posted July 27, 2009 I'll start off in a rented apartment at first then, should I decide that CM is the place for me, move on from there to a house or a condo. Can anyone enlighten me as to what area in the city they would suggest that I live in and, even better, does anyone know of a spot or a rental agent that they can recommend? How about a "motocy" rental outlet for a 3 or 4 month lease so that I can explore what may be my new permanent home? If you can help, your Karma will grow, and I promise to paint your toenails red and then scatter rose petals at your feet while declaiming that you are a prince (or princess, up to you) among men. I have been staying in Chiang Mai two months of the year for the last five years and I am moving there permanetly in one month. I will be glad to help, but only if you promise not to paint my toenails. Okay to take your questions one at a time: 1. Most of the gay night life has moved to the Chang Phuak, Huey Kaew, and Nimmanhemin Road area of the city and all three have many great rentals, restruants, and shopping areas to enjoy. I would especially recommend the last two areas to live in. 2. The best place to rent a car or bike for long rental is POP3 on Mun Muang road (which lies just to the west of the Taipai gate} and about 3 or 4 blocks north from the gate. Ask the price for one month rental, then say I want a special rate for 3 months and bargain. See the lady with the bad eye--if possible. For a quick fast--but more expensive rental--try Buddys accross the street from the Central Kad Suew Mall on Huey Kaew Road. 3. Most rental agents want a 12 or 6 month lease. Forgive me for giving unwanted advice, but I would strongly suggest that you rent for at least one year before buying a place. I agree with your assessment on BKK and Pattaya, but Chiang Mai is very different and seems to attack a whole different group that may not be your cup of tea. Nevertheless, here is a list of property specialists---some of whom have short term rentals. Do not take the asking price, you are expected to bargain and some web sites even tell you that. http://www.chiangmaihouse.com/ http://www.jasminehomes.co.th/index.php http://www.houseinchiangmai.net/ http://www.chiangmailiving.com/ http://www.sunbelt-chiangmai.com/ If you need anything else, and I can help do not hesitate to PM me on this or one of the other message boards as I always use the same name. Good luck and hope this helps. Quote
Guest Astrrro Posted July 27, 2009 Posted July 27, 2009 Khortose seems to have covered it all. My only input is that if you need a place to stay for the first few nights that I was very happy at the Raming Lodge. Quote
Guest Posted July 28, 2009 Posted July 28, 2009 Yes Khortose is the man in the know in Chiang Mai and offers great advice. Chiang Mai is one of my favorite cities as well. When the BF gets ready for university, I am trying to steer him that way. I love the city. My only other suggestion to get used to the place is to offer PJ's Place a one month rental and see what they can do for you for a longer stay to find your way around and get used to the city. They are very accommodating and having stayed with them in the past for this length, I know you would not be disappointed and the owners would even help you find a place when you leave. They are simply great to deal with. Quote
KhorTose Posted July 28, 2009 Posted July 28, 2009 Yes Khortose is the man in the know in Chiang Mai and offers great advice. Chiang Mai is one of my favorite cities as well. When the BF gets ready for university, I am trying to steer him that way. I love the city. My only other suggestion to get used to the place is to offer PJ's Place a one month rental and see what they can do for you for a longer stay to find your way around and get used to the city. They are very accommodating and having stayed with them in the past for this length, I know you would not be disappointed and the owners would even help you find a place when you leave. They are simply great to deal with. A very good idea if you can afford it. The owners English/Thai are two of my favorite people and know all the best places and business people in Chiang Mai. Wonderful place with large rooms, a great garden, close to everything I mentioned, and yet very quite and peacefully secluded at the same time. Here is their web site: http://www.pjs-place.com/ Quote