Visit-Thailand.org

Being a digital nomad means taking your work with you around the world, relying only on a laptop and a stable internet connection. Instead of being tied to an office in your home country, you can explore exotic beaches, vibrant cities, or peaceful mountain towns—all while continuing to work. This lifestyle offers incredible freedom but also comes with its own challenges. One of the most popular destinations for digital nomads is Thailand, with Chiang Mai standing out as a favorite spot.

Why Thailand, and Why Chiang Mai?

Thailand has long been a magnet for travelers from all over the world. The country is known for its friendly locals, beautiful landscapes, delicious food, and affordable living costs. Combined with a growing digital nomad community and excellent coworking spaces, Thailand has become a top choice for those who work remotely.

If you’ve ever been to Thailand, chances are you’ve heard people rave about 7-11. While it might just be a regular kiosk convenience store in other countries, in Thailand, it’s a cultural icon and a go-to place for both locals and tourists. So, what’s the big deal about 7-11 in Thailand?

You’ll Find Them Everywhere

7-11 stores are literally everywhere in Thailand. From bustling streets in Bangkok to small villages, from highways to remote islands, you’ll never have to look far to find one. In cities, you might even see several stores on the same street, just a short walk apart. No matter where you are, 7-11 is always nearby.

Always Open

Most 7-11 stores in Thailand are open 24/7. Whether it’s late at night or early in the morning, you can always pop in to grab what you need. This makes them a lifesaver, especially in smaller towns where other shops close early.

Every year, from late January through April, Northern Thailand, and especially Chiang Mai, is engulfed in what is commonly referred to as the "smokey season." This phenomenon is characterized by thick, smoky air hanging over the region, reducing visibility and elevating health risks for locals and visitors alike. The "smokey season" is the direct result of a combination of factors, but the most significant contributor is the widespread use of "slash-and-burn" agriculture.

What Is smokey season?

Smokey season refers to the months when air quality in Chiang Mai and surrounding areas deteriorates drastically due to smoke from burning agricultural fields. Farmers in Northern Thailand, as well as in neighboring countries such as Laos and Myanmar, continue to rely on slash-and-burn farming to clear their land for the next planting season. This involves burning off the remnants of crops and vegetation to fertilize the soil, but the process releases vast amounts of smoke and particulate matter into the atmosphere.

Chiang Mai is especially vulnerable to the effects of smokey season due to its geographic location. The city sits in a valley surrounded by mountains, which trap the smoke and pollution, preventing it from dispersing easily. The result is a "smoke blanket" that hangs over the city, and its intensity can vary depending on wind patterns and rainfall, but it typically peaks between February and March.