Chiang Mai dates from 1296; it is Thailand's second largest city and its most culturally significant.   Although it is becoming more modern, it does not possess the sophistication of Bangkok and still retains much of its ancient charm;  Buddhism permeates the local culture as it does throughout Thailand.   And while Chiang Mai is unknown to many North Americans, it is popular with well-traveled tourists who come to visit its 300 Buddhist temples and renowned nightly bazaar as well as partake in rural elephant trekking and tours to visit the nearby hill tribe people.   This influx of foreigners can help expatriate retirees adjust more readily to retirement here since it is possible to find fellow countrymen if desired.  Standard Thai is the official language, but many Thais speak some English, and English is spoken in banks, tourist-related businesses, government offices and health care facilities.  The Thai people are friendly, and those in Chiang Mai are no exception.  

U.S. citizen tourists staying for fewer than 30 days do not require a visa but must possess a passport and may be asked to show an onward/return ticket.   Persons entering Thailand without a visa will be allowed to stay in Thailand for 30 days per visit.  The total duration of stay for people who enter Thailand without a visa cannot exceed 90 days during any six-month period, counting from the date of first entry.  For those wanting to retire in Thailand, a non-immigrant "O" visa is needed.   Applicants must be at least 50 years old, have a valid passport, a certificate of health (no communicable diseases) and meet financial requirements.  These requirements are a bank statement showing roughly $27,582 (800,000 THB) and a monthly income of $2,200 (65,000 THB).  This retirement visa takes one to two months to receive, should be obtained in one's home country and lets one stay in Thailand for a year.  A visit to the local immigration office every three months is required; the visa is renewed annually.  Once this visa is received, personal belongings can be brought into Thailand without tax.

Chiang Mai is a relatively safe city, for both men and women, at least when compared to most large U.S. cities.  Thailand has seen an increase in terrorist activity but it is not considered a threat to foreigners in general.  There have been some incidents along the northern border with Burma and along the eastern and northern border with Laos, but violent crimes against foreigners are rare.   A couple of things to keep an eye out for are gem scams (foreigners being duped into buying precious stones which turn out to be glass) and "tuk-tuk" (three wheeled taxis) drivers charging too much.   Chiang Mai has also been seeing some peaceful demonstrations against China by Burmese exiles.