@hjunkim

Chiang Mai has had a deep Buddhist influence running over the last 1,000 years and this can be felt in the helpfulness, patience and generosity of the Thai and long-term transplants you come across. The city has an active community scene (nomads, spiritual seekers, hikers, creatives), several mountains with hiking spots and waterfalls surrounding the city, over 20 water bodies inside the city -- many have cafes and walks around, several public parks, and over 13 national parks with campgrounds w

It is something important to mention that if you rent a villa longer term, say 1-2 years, the maintenance will be at your expense. By that I mean if you have mold, it's on you to fix it, if your kitchen cabinets fall apart, it's on you, if termites damage the structure of your house, it's on you, if it floods and submerges your living room, it's on you. You either fix it and pay yourself or you move and do not get your rent back. The landlords will never ever pay for any renovations, any repair

One of the best cities in Europe. Though location makes a big difference in Istanbul. Besikatas, Nişantaşı, and Karakoy are parts that I enjoyed. They are safe and have nice vibe and energy. Big city, but not too hectic. I've met a lot of friendly Turkish people there and had good conversations. The food is good and relatively cheap. Outside of the good areas you will find lots of scams, people will try you everyday. Though its not violent, you can always just walk away.

Overall, highly recommnded for the fall/spring. Great weather, food, wines and hikes. There are really nice coffeshops (currently writing from one, "The coffee place"). Internet is Ok, but check the accommodation before. Right now there is a lot of anti-sentiment for Russia, so consider that if you're from there.

I've lived here for a year as a solo female expat over 50 (from the US) and I love it more and more every day. There are always events and things to do. I have an large, affordable apartment 20 minutes walking from the city center. I live on $2,000 a month. Before I found my apartment I was a digital nomad here for 4 months and it was challenging. I found some great co-working spaces but the airbnbs I stayed in were sub-par with terrible internet. However, as a resident/expat I have fantasti

Athens is a fantastic city. Locals are friendly and food is fantastic. There isn't a huge amount to do, but for a short stay it's definitely worth the visit.

I stayed here for 6 months and I absolutely love Mexico City. The life is comfortable if you stay in the bubbles, namely Roma Norte, Condesa and Polanco, but the living cost has increased 30% since last year, due to the inflation and skyrocketing mexican pesos. Mexican people are so friendly and I never had any safety issues. Definitely will be back in the future.

Can’t recommend Ubud. It’s just the same overdeveloped and overpriced mentally isolated tourist trap that is Canggu, just a bit worse. If you have never been anywhere else, it might be okay for 2 weeks, but to any seasoned traveller it’s a the type of place you dread.