Hi. I'm an Australian - I've been to Chiang Mai before but as a traveler.
I'm a retired woman who now writes and I have lived in Asia previously.
I am looking for information about staying in Chiang Mai for six months or longer of each year. I would rent, not buy and would like to visit maybe next month for three weeks or so and meet some people who live there. If I could meet a few people on this trip it would give me the chance to talk to people about the practicalities and possibilities.
I have traveled to a lot of SE Asia and other places so I'm not a complete greenhorn but I need to know more about actually living in Chiang Mai. I'm on my own so one thing I would like is the opportunity to make new friends over there. It's nice to get together once or twice a week with others!
I'd be really happy to hear tips from anyone and if there is any way I could meet some people when I come over could you please let me know. Also if you could recommend a place to stay for 3 to 4 weeks? Just a room: simple and clean and in a central area - walk to night market and not too expensive.
Thanks in advance and I look forward to any replies. Diana