It is important to consider if Chiang Mai is safe for remote workers, and whether you can expect your stay in this northern Thai city to be incident-free. In general, we can say that the city is indeed safe for remote workers and also highlight that locals in Chiang Mai are laid-back, welcoming and helpful. Like any major Asian city, you should expect there to be some peculiarities to your trip here as a visitor from a wealthier country. Nonetheless, by using the typical precautions you would have in any big city, you can expect your time in Chiang Mai to be culturally and professional rewarding.

In order to help you know what to expect, this quick guide explore some of the main security issues in the city.

Chiang Mai is safe for remote workers but, as with any major city popular with international visitors, it will be important for you to be on the lookout for pick-pockets and bag-snatchers. These are more likely to operate around the heavy-transited areas such as in the Old City and around the Night Bazaar. To avoid falling victim to this common form of crime, we suggest only carrying essential belongings with you and leaving any high-value items at home. If you choose to carry cash (and you should!) make sure you carry only necessary amounts and keep it safe by using a money belt. In general, violent crime is rare in Thailand and rarer in Chiang Mai. Indeed, you might experience some hawking outside major tourist attractions from tuk-tuk drivers or other hustlers, but firmly declining usually helps end any aggressive solicitation.

All big cities lend themselves to fraudsters. Indeed, while Chiang Mai is safe for remote workers, we recommend being careful here and using good judgment to avoid falling victim to common scams and frauds. Thailand has a relatively new digital infrastructure and away from Bangkok, in rural areas, it tends to be worse and less secure. As such, if you use your credit card make sure you keep an aye on it at all times since double-charging is common here. A good way to keep track of anything that goes on with your cards is to activate notifications on your phone. Another form of scam will be the typical “gem scam” also popular in Bangkok - you might be offered “precious” stones for knock-off prices only to then realize they are fake after you’ve paid and the store has disappeared.

If you enjoy being an active part of local nightlife, you can rest assured Chiang Mai is safe for remote workers looking to have a good time. The sex industry in Thailand, while not technically illegal, can be dicey and those working in it may well be victims of trafficking and other illegal activities. Indeed, there have also been reports of drink-spiking and theft by sex workers among the expat community in Thailand. Also, keep in mind that drug use and possession are heavily penalized here.

For more information about living in Chiang Mai as a remote worker, check out our complete Chiang Mai guide.