Moving to Thailand comes with plenty of expected changes—but some of the biggest surprises are the tiny, oddly specific things you never think to Google beforehand. Here are 25 things that surprised me after moving to Thailand, from freezing 7-Elevens and LINE to geckos, Grab, Thai breakfast, and the mysterious disappearance of street addresses.

I’m a chronic overpacker, but after backpacking through Thailand, traveling with multiple giant suitcases, and eventually moving here, I’ve learned a thing or two about what’s actually worth bringing. Here’s what I’d pack for a 2–3 week trip to Thailand — including what I’d leave at home, what I’d buy at 7-Eleven, and what I’d pack differently depending on where I’m going.

Somewhere between the ham and cheese toasties, aggressively cold AC, tiny packets of toiletries and endless 7-Elevens on every corner, I fell in love with Thailand’s favorite convenience store.

A list of the Chiang Mai tours and excursions I’d actually recommend, from temples and Thai cooking classes to jungle adventures, food tours, and day trips outside the city.

Mango sticky rice may be Thailand’s most famous dessert, but there’s an entire world of colorful, coconut-filled sweets hiding in local markets and dessert stalls. From crispy coconut pancakes to chewy pandan noodles and tiny fruit-shaped treats, these are the Thai desserts you probably haven’t tried yet—but definitely should.

How much does it actually cost to live in Chiang Mai? I tracked my monthly expenses — from rent and food to Grab rides, beauty treatments, Muay Thai, bars, and everything in between. Here’s exactly what I spend living comfortably in Chiang Mai without living a super-frugal or luxury lifestyle.

Thailand has a way of humbling even the most prepared traveler. From elephant pants and tuk tuks to suspicious taxi meters, surprise rainstorms, spicy food, and massages that feel more like a wrestling match, these are the Thailand canon events you probably won’t escape.

Rainy season doesn’t have to ruin your Chiang Mai trip. From quirky museums and tarot readings to afternoon tea, thrifting, indoor climbing, and rainy-day reservoir hangs, here are some of my favorite things to do in Chiang Mai when the rain just won’t stop.

Wondering how many days you actually need in Chiang Mai? While you can see some of the highlights in a couple of days, I think 4 days to a week gives you enough time to slow down, explore beyond the Old City, and experience the city without rushing from one thing to the next. Here's why I think Chiang Mai is worth staying a little longer.

Planning a day trip from Chiang Mai? Mon Jam is an easy escape into the mountains, with cooler temperatures, incredible views, flower gardens, cozy cafés, and plenty of opportunities to slow down and enjoy Northern Thailand. Here's how I'd spend one day in Mon Jam.