Moving to a new country is a big step, especially with a family in tow. For those heading to Chiang Mai, Thailand, building a local network can be incredibly reassuring. Facebook groups offer a direct line to current expats and locals, providing an essential resource for families making the big move. Here’s a list of valuable groups that can help you navigate your relocation with ease.
1. Chiang Mai Relocation (by CNXlocal)
Run by yours truly, this group is tailored specifically for those planning a move to Chiang Mai. While we offer a bespoke consultation service for families relocating to Chiang Mai, most of you probably just need to fill in a couple of crucial gaps to plan the move for yourselves.
This is the group to get answers from experienced folks in the community! Whether it’s visas, househunting, how to get your stuff shipped over, setting up essentials like bank accounts, or tips and events for getting integrated into the community, this group is here to help you make the transition to one that you can get excited about instead of just feeling stressed.
Join the group: Chiang Mai Relocation
Relevance: ★★★★★
Friendliness: ★★★★★
Trolliness: ★☆☆☆☆
2. Thai Visa Advice
This is an indispensable resource for navigating the sometimes tricky waters of Thai visas and immigration policies. Tod, the moderator of this group, is a benevolent dictator. Please follow his rules. This group gives really great and up-to-date advice. When you can’t search for a clear answer online, these people will help you figure it out – whether it’s application hassles, visa extensions, permanent residency, or work permits.
Join the group: Thai Visa Advice
Relevance: ★★★★★
Friendliness: ★★★★☆
Trolliness: ★★☆☆☆
I wouldn’t start your visa search here, though, because there’s SO MUCH information, it’s probably overwhelming. Instead, check out one of our visa guides here for digital nomads, or here for families.
3. Chiang Mai Expat Moms
A supportive space for expatriate mothers in Chiang Mai. This is one of Lily’s favorite groups in Chiang Mai. Since we became parents, the advice and connections we’ve made here have vastly improved our lives. From tips on hospitals and giving birth, to help finding a nanny, figuring out which dentist to take your kids to, and even organizing meetups and playgroups, this group is a wonderful resource and always very supportive. It’s also excellent for buying secondhand clothing and toys. There are a handful of single dads in there, but by majority, this is a group for women and moms.
Join the group: Chiang Mai Expat Moms
Relevance: ★★★★★
Friendliness: ★★★★★
Trolliness: ★☆☆☆☆
4. Chiang Mai Expats & Locals
This group is a mix of expats and locals, providing a broader perspective on living in Chiang Mai. From finding the best local eateries to understanding local customs and etiquette, this crew will help you integrate into the local community.
While the admins don’t love us as much as we love them and they’ve banned our blog links, there are so many great conversations in there, we have to give credit where credit’s due.
A lot of the advice in this group can feel repetitive as it’s often geared more towards tourists and short-term visitors rather than real expats and those making a permanent move here, but it’s super useful for being a very active and engaged group.
Join the group: Chiang Mai Expats & Locals
Relevance: ★★★★★
Friendliness: ★★★★☆
Trolliness: ★★★☆☆
5. Chiang Mai Family Guide
These folks have been churning out Chiang Mai family content for years. Similar to our own site, you’ll find a lot of great resources for families on their blog. Their Facebook group is an extension of that, offering a space for discussion and community support. If you have questions about schools in Chiang Mai, this group is especially useful.
Join the group: Chiang Mai Family Guide
Relevance: ★★★★★
Friendliness: ★★★★★
Trolliness: ★☆☆☆☆
6. House for Rent in Chiang Mai
There are tons of house-hunting groups in Chiang Mai, but this one stands out for the size of the community and the quality of listings, making it an essential for finding accommodation in Chiang Mai. Whether you’re looking for a short-term rental or a long-term lease, members frequently post available properties. There are a ton of housing groups in Chiang Mai, but in our opinion, this is the best one if you’re hunting for a proper house with a yard in suburban Chiang Mai suitable for families.
Join the group: House for Rent in Chiang Mai
Relevance: ★★★★☆
Friendliness: ★★☆☆☆
Trolliness: ★★☆☆☆
7. Chiang Mai Nanny, Housekeeper & Babysitters (by CNXlocal)
Another one of our groups! Perfect for families in need of childcare solutions, this group connects you with a network of housekeepers, nannies and babysitters in the Chiang Mai area. It’s a good place to check reviews and gather recommendations from other expat parents.
Join the group: Chiang Mai Nanny, Housekeeper & Babysitters
Relevance: ★★★★★
Friendliness: ★★★★★
Trolliness: ★☆☆☆☆
8. Little Owls Playgroup
Ideal for parents with young children, this group organizes playgroups and other activities. It’s a wonderful way to meet other families and give your little ones the chance to play and learn with peers.
This group is run by a close personal friend, and we go to these play dates frequently. If you are living in Chiang Mai with toddlers, join this group. It’s super fun and a great way to meet other families.
Join the group: Little Owls Playgroup
Relevance: ★★★★★
Friendliness: ★★★★★
Trolliness: ★☆☆☆☆
9. Worldschoolers
While not a specifically Chiang Mai-focused group, if you’re a nomadic family who unschools or homeschools, then you can find a lot of pertinent advice here. Because Chiang Mai is such a hub, there’s a lot of great advice that can help your family to plan your time in Chiang Mai, whether you’re staying a short while or making a permanent move.
Join the group: Worldschoolers
Relevance: ★★★☆☆
Friendliness: ★★★★★
Trolliness: ★☆☆☆☆
Tips for Getting the Most Out of these Facebook Groups
Your New Mantra: SEARCH BEFORE YOU POST
I cannot stress this enough. Before you ask that burning question, PLEASE SEARCH FIRST.
Why? Because:
- You’ll get answers faster
- You won’t annoy the group admins (hi, it’s me, I’m the admin)
- You’ll avoid being labeled as “that newbie who can’t use Google”
It’s like social media survival 101, folks. Trust me, your fellow group members will thank you (silently, with approving nods). Most Facebook groups have a search bar right at the top. Use it. Love it. Live by it.
In Conclusion…
As you prepare for your adventure to Chiang Mai, these Facebook groups can provide invaluable support and guidance. Engage actively, ask questions, and contribute where you can to make the most out of these communities. Now, go forth and join! Your Chiang Mai adventure awaits, and trust me, you’re gonna want some virtual hand-holding along the way.
Question for you: What’s your biggest fear about moving to Chiang Mai with your family? Drop it in the comments and let’s figure it out together!
