Is Chiang Mai still cheap?

Chiang Mai can be as a cheap or expensive as you want (like most of Thailand). But if you stick the local markets; avoid the fancy organic, health restaurants that have popped up; and stay in the old city, you can save money easily!

Is Chiang Mai cooler than Bangkok?

The region has three distinct seasons: the cool season, the hot season and the rainy season. Chiang Mai is cooler than Bangkok, due to its geographical location.