After exploring more than 40 nations across the globe, a seasoned traveller has declared there is only one city she would ever consider making her permanent home.
From Global Wanderer to Settled Expat
Monique Lindner, originally from Germany, was the first in her family to leave her home country. She embarked on an epic journey, spending over seven years as a full-time traveller, visiting stunning locations from Australia to Latin America and Asia. However, the desire for a base eventually led her to search for the perfect place to settle down.
Writing for Business Insider, Monique explained that after careful thought, one destination rose above all others. She found herself establishing a life in Chiang Mai, Thailand, a city of roughly one million people located several hundred miles north of Bangkok.
The Irresistible Allure of Chiang Mai
For Monique, Chiang Mai offers the ideal fusion of "local charm" and "big city vibes." She first visited about a decade ago, when it felt like a backpacker's paradise with affordable hostels and a vibrant young scene. Today, she loves the city's balance of modern shopping malls and traditional "mama shops" run by local families, alongside markets selling fresh food and local tea as well as international chains.
The cultural richness is a major draw. She admits she would "never get bored" exploring the array of Buddhist temples and ruins, attending musical performances, or visiting local art galleries. Despite settling, her passion for travel continues through regular day trips. A 25-minute drive takes her to an "amazing" national park, while an hour's journey reaches the historic town of Lamphun.
Building a Life on a Modest Budget
Monique highlights the practical benefits of life in Chiang Mai. Initially, she lived in a gated community complete with a garden, tennis court, and pool, all managed on a "modest budget." Her neighbourhood was quiet yet convenient, with car-repair shops, fresh markets, and numerous stores nearby.
Building a community proved easy. She connected with others through Facebook events and met fellow digital nomads, finding that the city offers "activities and gatherings for everyone," from yoga classes to drumming workshops.
She is candid about the challenges, particularly the annual "burning season," when crop and forest fires affect air quality. She has taken road trips to escape the worst of it, but always finds herself missing Chiang Mai.
Monique concluded that falling in love with the city was easy, and it served as a wonderful home base for years. While some logistics remain, she hopes to make this piece of Thailand her permanent residence in the future.
