Hey there! We're Lily and Kris, the duo behind CNXlocal—your insider guides to Chiang Mai living.
Half Thai, half American, born abroad but raised in Chiang Mai's gentle embrace. After adventures in London's startup scene and New York's fast-paced grind, she returned to her childhood home in 2017, bringing with her a unique blend of Western ambition and Thai sensibility. These days, she's juggling motherhood (two little ones!) while following her passion for helping others discover the magic of Chiang Mai living.
A Canadian software developer who escaped the conventional path in 2018, trading corporate burnout for the laid-back rhythm of Northern Thailand. When he's not coding or exploring hidden local gems with the family, he's busy making sure CNXlocal delivers the most accurate, up-to-date, and user-friendly content possible.
Together, we've found that sweet spot where ambition meets balance—where you can build a career without sacrificing quality of life. Now, we're on a mission to help others do the same.
CNXlocal isn't just another travel blog or expat forum—it's your comprehensive guide to turning Chiang Mai dreams into reality.
Born from our frustration with outdated, tourist-centric information dominating search results, we created the resource we wish we'd had: a platform delivering practical, honest, and insider knowledge about living, working, and thriving in Chiang Mai.
Living well in Chiang Mai isn't just about finding the right condo or the best coffee shop—it's about creating relationships that matter.
The expat community in Chiang Mai is something special. Whether it's a chance encounter at a cafe or a fellow parent at a playground, we believe in fostering real connections rather than transactional networking. Generosity of spirit goes a long way in creating the support systems we all need when living far from our original homes.
When a local business goes above and beyond, we make sure everyone knows about it. In a city where word-of-mouth still trumps online reviews, your enthusiasm for that hole-in-the-wall noodle shop or family-run coffee stand can make a world of difference. The businesses you praise from the rooftops become part of the fabric that makes Chiang Mai special for all of us.
Remember that time you were completely lost, couldn't communicate what you needed, and a kind stranger or seasoned expat stepped in to help? Yeah, we've all been there. If you've benefited from the community's guidance, find your unique way to give back—whether it's helping newcomers navigate visa processes, sharing your specialized knowledge, or simply offering a friendly face to someone who needs it.
Expats have a rich and valued role within the Chiang Mai community. This isn't about erasing who you are to "become Thai"—it's about finding that sweet spot where respectful appreciation meets authentic self-expression. Be proud of where you come from while honoring where you are now. Cultural exchange works both ways, after all.
Certain aspects of Thai culture might occasionally drive you insane (we're looking at you, inexplicable bureaucratic processes), but Thais have mastered the art of focusing on the positive and embracing a "live and let live" attitude. Our different perspectives create the perfect environment for mutual learning and growth—even when cultural misunderstandings lead to facepalm moments.
While Chiang Mai caters to many communities—digital nomads, spiritual seekers, artists, and innovators—we've found it to be an exceptional place to raise children. That's why families are our focus. From childcare and schooling to kid-friendly cafes, we're passionate about helping other families discover the joys (and navigate the challenges) of raising global citizens in this welcoming city.
This isn't just how we create content—it's how we live. At CNXlocal, we're committed to fostering a community of expats who contribute positively to Chiang Mai's future while enjoying all the benefits this remarkable city has to offer.