Da Nang with no smoking farm fields would be better for me , I chatted a bit yesterday with Girlie Pal from Da Nang letting her know I'm still doing research on living in Da Nang . I think Da Nang is less crowded that Chiang Mai since there is more Nomads in Chiang Mai since I don't have work or be employed for income that makes Da Nang another choice 1 over Thailand for me with the Da Nang beach being right at Expats finger tips . I think Da Nang is going to be more stable than Thailand going forward in regards to Thailand and you can apply a Citizenship Visa in Vietnam with no paper games or political games that are starting to be played on Expats in Thailand and the great thing is Singapore in only 2hr flight from Da Nang .
@@timmyjones1921 Citizenship visa? Big news for me. I have dual citizenship, American and Brazilian, and toss in a Vietnam visa would be great to spend great vacations. Megan, what they feed you in Canada? You taller than most people that I know of. Great video young lady.
@Đẹp trai Bồ câu Handsome Pigeon Nice beaches, cheap street foods, great accomodations at reasonable prices, and a beer drinking environment. Sounds like a great place for a month long honeymoon place for me. Oh yeah, got to bring the Mrs. Only a slight problem... It is on the other side of the world.
One thing you never touched on: Language. Personally I find Vietnamese an easier language to learn, mostly because I am able to actually read it. Reading Thai involves learning an entirely new alphabet system and the time to cohesively translate thai sentences in your head. Even if you never learn the Viet language, you can still read all signage because it uses a latin-based alphabet.
You are absolutely correct. I also feel that Vietnamese language is closer to foreigners because they use the Latin alphabet. I don't need to learn Vietnamese, but I can also read and speak Vietnamese words 😂
I have spent time in each. I am American retiree. I enjoy both cities. Danang is my choice though for 2 reasons. Chaing mai can be oppressively hot. Danang is on the ocean and seems to have a much better climate. Also the Visa for Vietnam is very attractive.
Great video! I would say Chiang Mai, then Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia, then Da Nang. But honestly, I've enjoyed literally every place that I've been to. The most magical was Sa Pa, Vietnam. It is quite limited for digital nomads but the views and vibe resonated with me.
Good comparison! I’ve been to both places. Agreed with your assessments. One more thing I noticed is that Chiangmai is cleaner and the locals there are more aware of the surroundings; the streets are cleaner and pretty much free of street trash. In Da Nang, somehow people litter a lot.
This is true! I do find it hard to find garbage cans in Da Nang so I think that may play into there being more litter... But the beach has always been spotless when I am there! :)
@@PortableProfessional Howdy ! 1 quick question, would make me happy to hear an answer! But I'm planning a trip to either Vietnam or Thailand for 1 month, and I really am confused about which one will be more fun for me. - I'm not into clubs, parties, bars, nightlife, restaurants, chilling 24/7 on the beach, etc. - I'm into tropical landscapes, nature, attractions, sea, ziplines, water sports, animals, diving (open to fill types of attractions, and maybe even a little extreme, such as diving with sharks and such), etc. Which one you think will be better for me?
Howdy ! 1 quick question, would make me happy to hear an answer! But I'm planning a trip to either Vietnam or Thailand for 1 month, and I really am confused about which one will be more fun for me. - I'm not into clubs, parties, bars, nightlife, restaurants, chilling 24/7 on the beach, etc. - I'm into tropical landscapes, nature, attractions, sea, ziplines, water sports, animals, diving (open to fill types of attractions, and maybe even a little extreme, such as diving with sharks and such), etc. Which one you think will be better for me?
I'm Chiang Maier, and THANK YOU for choosing our city^^ I totally agreed with you in skipping Chiang Mai during February till May because of smog problems. It's a problem that even locals want to escape away from, but she's our city and we can't leave her. I heard that before Covid-19, there is a flight between Chiang Mai and Da Nang, not sure that they will continue after the epidemic has ends, but if they do; maybe you can hop between the city during the weekend. Work in Chiang Mai during weekdays and go to Da Nang beaches during weekends, perhaps ;)
Thanks for another fun and informative video. As someone else commented, I usually recommend people wanting to explore Southeast Asia start in Thailand first, then branch out from there, as Thailand is a better place to learn the ropes as it easier to navigate and more user friendly than other places. Also, you mentioned the expat community several times, but I hope people won't limit their social circle to only other expats, as meeting local people will greatly expand the experience. Take a local language class to help you really get the most out of where you are. Cheers.
Absolutely agree, Mark. Thailand has just been set up for tourism for such a long time that it's so easy to get around and find things to do. Somehow, despite all the tourists, the Thai people are still so welcoming. Thailand is an incredible country
Both are amazing places! Really nice to hear your commentary and comparison here. Definitely great information that many viewers will surely appreciate. Keep up the amazing content 🙌💯☀️🌿
Definitely Chiang Mai. Everything you mentioned are very true for both places and can’t go wrong with either one. Don’t forget that Thailand also have beautiful beaches in Phuket/Pattaya if you need beach get away and Vietnam has Hanoi for beautiful mountain landscapes. Both countries are wonderful to visit. I was there last year and can’t wait to go again.
You compare an ancient city in the mountains to a seaside tourist trading town. Like you compare Kyoto or Yokohama Where is better? Do you think it is appropriate? Nothing in common. You should compare Da Nang or Pattaya to be more suitable. I have been to Da Nang before, there is nothing like Chiang Mai.The way of life in Chiang Mai is quiet, but Da Nang is busy with people trading.
Megan, your videos are so informative and quite enjoyable. My wife and I were in Da Nang a few years ago and were pleasantly surprised on how nice it was. Our choice is Vietnam because we found Thailand much too hot. Great videos, keep them coming.
Good video, covering a lot of points. I know a digital nomad who is American, about 28 years old who goes back and forth between the two. He likes both. I'm going to Chiang Mai soon (I am already in Thailand). Like you I hate the burning season in north Thailand. Take care.
I lived in Chiang Mai for 3 years and yes, it's more home than anywhere else I've been. It has everything I could want in a city - except for ocean air. But you can't have everything! Having said that, I've been to DaNang twice for short stays and want to give it a fair shake (3 months minimum). I plan to do this once all this nonsense settles down and we can travel again.
Megan again well done. Both two of my favorite places. I will be splitting my time between the two along with my home in Jupiter, Florida. 2021 will be the beginning of a great adventure.
Kool Ken ' kinda sounds like me , U.S. Armed Forces say they should be done processing my military retirement by March 2021 so I have been researching living in Da Nang Vietnam and chatting with my lady pal whom is here in California from Da Nang also . Da Nang is better for me since we have a Navy Base & Air Force Base in Singapore only a 2hr Flight each way from Da Nang and I'm told I can apply for dual citizenship in Vietnam a 6 month process with no paper work games or political games so those type options living near Singapore and No Games in Vietnam are really great options for me & I watch all the travel & living in Vietnam shows I can & type up what to do and how to do it correctly before & upon arrival in Vietnam and Singapore.
Da Nang is just a developing city by the beach; it's not a nomad hot spot by any means. Like you said, there are "a few" coworking spaces, but there are far more in places like Hanoi or Saigon. You're not going to find anyone in the comments praising Da Nang as an awesome destination for nomad meet-ups and hang-outs. I think you're projecting your own lifestyle onto the city here and trying to make it fit.
I m thinking of relocating to Chiang Mai in August for most probably a year. I m not so convinced of the beauty of this city but almost all reviews speak very fondly of it.
You got the two cities spot on; great video. I'm still in Da Nang (sad you felt you had to leave) but spent 4 months in Chiang Mai prior. As a remote worker, totally agree on all aspects. I also planned to leave Vietnam before it got too hot (June), it is very hot, you're right there too! Less to do than in CM, and yes, lots of teachers, very few with their own online business so feel a little isolated...but this could be due to all borders still being closed. Lots of musicians so nightlife isn't too bad.
I made my choice over 20 years ago. I had been going to Thailand for 5 years and decided to build a house on 1 rai of land in Bo sang, between Chiangmai and San Kamphaene. I married a Thai and inherited 3 step children and had one on our own. We moved back to the U.S. for the school system but kept the house. I usually spend 1-2 months a year there except for the last 18 months. As soon as COVID restrictions are lifted, I’ll be over for a 3 month stay. Having a yard big enough to plant trees and have a garden makes all the difference over an apartment. The center of Chiangmai is a 15 minute motorcycle or car ride away. I’ve told my son that the day that he graduates from High School in 4 years, I’ll be leaving permanently for my true home.
I am 63 years old, I am not a digital nomad, I have seen Chiang Mai, Da Nang and .... Seminyak (Bali), If I were young I would go to Bali for the sea and nature, but the food is bad .... so .... thanks for your videos and for the beautiful smile
Excellent overview of both places. Vietnam is on my short list of next countries to visit...that's how I found your channel 😁. Will definitely add Da Nang as a must visit. Chiang Mai is a wonderful small city and Thailand is almost overly tourist friendly and it's hard to beat the food scene. Anyone going to S.E. Asia should start with Thailand especially if they're new to traveling. Thailand also does have beachs I recommend ones one on the Andaman sea. This may not be best for digital nomads.
Absolutely agree, Stan! Thailand is definitely top of the list for anyone starting out with SEA travel. Such a wonderful place and so easy to travel around. Thanks for being here, I appreciate your patience with me over the last couple weeks 😅
@@PortableProfessional No problem, these are trying times. Just hope you and your family are safe and healthy. No ones going anywhere right now so the next best thing is to travel vicariously by way of other people's adventures.
Useful info 🙂 I have some few travel blogs suscribed, today I discovered two: yours ans some Poles ( niesezonowi ), which make me feel jelaous 😊 keep working and greetings from Sweden 😎
Good stuff! I was wondering if Da Nang and Phuket or Krabi wouldn’t be a more realistic comparison? I feel like comparing beachy areas to other beach areas makes more sense than comparing the chilled out beach vibe to a somewhat substantial city is a little bit like apples and oranges. Nonetheless I appreciate your comparisons. 👍
What if you're not a digital nomad or have no intention to work at all while living in S/E Asia, which city would you prefer? I really love bicycling, the walking trail along those beautiful clean beaches look ideal for biking, also the roads in Da Nang appear to be wider and less congested than the roads in Chiang Mai, most likely safer for biking and walking.
Both are amazing places with lots to do and explore. It really depends on if you want a mountain lifestyle or beach vibe. I personally prefer the open spaces and living on the ocean. If you are interested in a lot of touristy activities go for Chiang Mai. Lots of really neat things to do and hiking options too. There is more to keep you busy in Chiang Mai, but honestly you can't go wrong. Good luck!
Awesome video. I am going to Thailand in November...first Bangkok then Hua hin. After that I plan to travel around the country and explore it all. Have you ever been toothed cities in Thailand ? Do these tips on Chiang Mai apply to other areas of Thailand? Do you have medical/dental insurance locally or do you just pay for travel insurance?
Hey Megan nice to see a new video from you. When you didn't post one last week I thought initialy what's wrong with Megan hope she gets better soon. After that minor freak out lol I calmer mind said she must be just and looked forward to seeing this week's Video. Not that those parts of my speak because that would be weird lol. Because Chaing Mai is less a culture shock than Da Nang I'd probably go their first. I might check Da Nang out just because a certainly Canadian vlogger said it was interesting lol. I may merely by accident bump into her there lol. Great video as always.
Thanks for sticking with me, Leo! Just a lot going on workwise and these videos do take a very long time.😅 Nothing wrong, just wasn't able to fit one in the last couple weeks. Hoping to get back to being more consistent again. Thank you for checking in!
Well, the title say this video is for digital nomad, if you just a traveler, you can ignore it, but digital nomad need these type of comparision to make a choice, because they will live there long term
Nice video! I would definitely prefer the nice beaches over excursions. There are a lot of options other places in southeast Asia like Bali the Philippines or Taiwan
Thanks for a very informative video. If you want to live as a retiree in one of these two place which one do you think would be a better choice, given the cost of healthcare and English as a spoken language?
Vietnam has new visa laws as of July 1st 2020. It Will be impossible to stay in Vietnam long term without a work permit. Please check new visa laws before packing your bags for Vietnam or Thailand
I know Chiang Mai well, been there about 8 times and I like it a lot but my favourite town in SE Asia is Siem Reap in Cambodia. It’s much smaller than C. Mai so it’s an easier walking town and much easier to make friends with the locals more easily. Siem Reap is worth a look as a retirement destination ...I’ve been there 30 times in 18 years and basically lived there the last 5 years.
Great reviews and thanks. But there are many other places in both countries which will fit more in your lifestyle. Visit the country few times before you desire where to live. Danang is not my fav, more in Quy Nhon city for me.
I used to run along the beach in Boca Raton early in the morning. There wasn't seaweed (later in the day); because vehicles drive the length of the beaches scraping the seaweed off the sand. So the question becomes did you go to the beach early enough to run across seaweed.
Can you help me understand why you would choose Chiang Mai / Thailand to visit and remain within a foreigner bubble ? Unless I missed it, do you try to integrate into local community life that is not foreigner based ? Thanks 🙏
Let's face it. Most of these people want an Anglosphere "bubble" to live in that's ~25-50% the price of home. Sure don't get me wrong, the food, culture, people etc. are all very exciting, but for most Westerners the price is what it all boils down to to some extent. They want "exotic" stuff on demand whilst also having a sense of "home" whenever they're in the mood for it. Also, unless one is truly fluent in the local language, surely having conversations with people of only ~6-8 year old English literacy equivalent gets old at some point. I'm not judging either; I teach online and leave for Cambodia in less than a month.
To pay 30-40 ฿ to the Song Thaew for piggybacking with the other passengers is a pure rip ! They must bring you straight to your destination. 15฿ should be reasonable enough. I'm thai in BKK but haven't ridden on those red Song Thaew. Whenever I go to Chiang I drive my own car to and around city( the whole province ,to be exact).
Covers COVID as of Aug 2020. The travel insurance I trust and also cheapest I’ve found! They covered my flight from Vietnam to Canada a few months ago. Goodluck! bit.ly/PortableProfessional-Insurance
That's a pretty good breakdown of both. Having never been to Da Nang, and having only stayed in Chiang Mai for 3 days, my vote shouldn't even count. lol... But my gut definitely tells me Chaing Mai is the place for me
I love Thailand and Vietnam and Cambodia and Laos ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ Hanoi to Laos by bus HCMC Saigon to by Bus combodia.❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ Thailand by air from Hanoi or HCMC.❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ Awesome.. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Was planning on going to Chiang Mai on my first trip to Thailand, but at 108 degrees F, a little too hot for me. Da Nang does seem to be a great place to visit in Nam and not far from other sites worth visiting away from the big cities. Hope to get to both once the virus thing is over. Also, check your spelling of "avoid" towards the end of your video.
Are you legally allowed to work as a "digital nomad" under a tourist visa? I thought the quintessence of a tourist visa is that you are restricted to work.
Grey area. If your client or employer is in Thailand and paying into a Thai bank account then it probably is employment. If you answer calls or emails or do some work online for a non-Thai client or employer paying into a non-Thai bank account, then it becomes a grey area.
Historically, the original Viet/Kinh before been rules by Han-Chinese were considered as Austro-Asiatic which is the same group as Mon-khmer. I red that they originated in Southeas Asia around Red River Delta. The thing that make Viet/Kinh a little bit diffrent from other Mon-Khmer ethnics is they have been rule by Han-Chinese for like 1000 years, So that will explains why they looks diffrent from other Austro-Asiatic (Mon-khmer) ethnics and with heavily influenced of Han-Chinese culture. By the way the Thai/Dai are originated in South of China and considered as Tai-Kadai ethnic, but move down to Southeast Asia in 13th century. Also the original Tai/Dai genetic are also closely related with in Zhuang/Cantonese in China. Tai/Dai never be invade and rule by Han-Chinese just like Hmong and Zhuang, so culturally their culture aren't close to Han-Chinese culture. By the way genetically they seem to be obviously related to Northeast Asian not any less than Vietnamese. Also Thailand is currently world's bigest Han-Chinese Comunity outside of China, there are 9.5 millions of pure 100% Han-Chinese. Also estimated over 50% of total population are Han-Chinese hybird (30million are Thai-Chinese). So genetically I think Thai are more related to Chinese than Vietnamese . By the way culturally Vietnamese is obviously more related to Han-Chinese than Thai, but not genetically. Genetically and culturally is diffrent story and have to be divide apart. Tai-kadai people were weak and lake in culture, so in the time they move down to Southeast Asia and war with native people of Indo-Chia which is Khmer. Tai-kadai seem to be absorbed into Khmer culture because Khmer civilization on that time were considered as powerful and rich in culture. So this would explains why modern day Thai/Dai in Thailand and Laos are influenced by Khmer culturally. This is really same case as how Mongolian conquered China but on that time the Mongolian were weak and lake in culture, by the way Han-Chinese were powerful and rich in culture. So those Mongolian obviously absorbed into Han-Chinese culture.
Why would anyone move to the tropics but live hundreds of miles from the nearest beach in air-polluted Chiang Mai? Phuket Town or Penang has the best of both worlds of Chiang Mai and Da Nang, without their downsides, and they're only a 40 minute flight from each other.
With the Covid-19 Da Nang is not that safe anymore. I know several people that got robbed and I got my iPhone 11 stolen from a motorbike catcher 20 meters next to my House. Chances this will happen in a Buddhist Country are very very low. About boring: I don't know why people say Da Nang is boring. You have plenty of nightlife options, beach and mountains. The Beer Bars are almost every Day full and alcohol is a lot cheaper than in Thailand. In Chiang Mai 70% of the western people go almost every weekend to zoe / spicy and some smaller foreigner bars. Da Nang is missing the digital nomad scene but after meeting on most of the events in Chiang Mai only beginners with no income that are trying to be nomads i stopped visiting them. Because your conversation will be 99% the same bullshit aka what are you doing for a living? how? bla bla one more point about Dating for Men: Women in Chiang Mai / Thailand are a lot easier than in Da Nang / Vietnam. In Thailand most of the time you smile at a girl and she will come to your home. In Vietnam, it's very different. You need to go out with some girls around 2-3 times before you even can kiss them. Its a lot more conservative here. I think for a girlfriend/wife Vietnam is better. For enjoying your single life = Thailand for sure, even if you compare Saigon to Chiang Mai. For me personally Vietnamese Women are a little bit better looking. But most Women here want to marry and have a serious relationship. So be aware of this!
This video seems to be aimed at Americans, and Americans aren't going to be allowed into either Thailand or Vietnam for *quite* some time-very likely not at all in the remainder of 2020-so I don't really get why you're promoting them in this way. You're going to get the hopes of a lot of people up when they can't go there. And believe me, I am bummed about it myself because I'm an American who wants to go to both countries.
👉 Which one is best for you? Comment 'Chiang Mai' or 'Da Nang' 👈
Da Nang. I speak the language. Lol
Da Nang with no smoking farm fields would be better for me , I chatted a bit yesterday with Girlie Pal from Da Nang letting her know I'm still doing research on living in Da Nang . I think Da Nang is less crowded that Chiang Mai since there is more Nomads in Chiang Mai since I don't have work or be employed for income that makes Da Nang another choice 1 over Thailand for me with the Da Nang beach being right at Expats finger tips . I think Da Nang is going to be more stable than Thailand going forward in regards to Thailand and you can apply a Citizenship Visa in Vietnam with no paper games or political games that are starting to be played on Expats in Thailand and the great thing is Singapore in only 2hr flight from Da Nang .
@@timmyjones1921 Citizenship visa? Big news for me. I have dual citizenship, American and Brazilian, and toss in a Vietnam visa would be great to spend great vacations.
Megan, what they feed you in Canada? You taller than most people that I know of. Great video young lady.
Chiangmai, but Da Nang has great craft beer at a cheap price.
@Đẹp trai Bồ câu Handsome Pigeon Nice beaches, cheap street foods, great accomodations at reasonable prices, and a beer drinking environment. Sounds like a great place for a month long honeymoon place for me. Oh yeah, got to bring the Mrs.
Only a slight problem... It is on the other side of the world.
Da Nang is my choice. I will be there longer and I am looking for a more low key lifestyle
@Corey Smith See you when you get there...
Da Nang all the way .
It's a perfect place for fugitives huh?
@@blackumbrella6199 ?
One thing you never touched on: Language. Personally I find Vietnamese an easier language to learn, mostly because I am able to actually read it. Reading Thai involves learning an entirely new alphabet system and the time to cohesively translate thai sentences in your head. Even if you never learn the Viet language, you can still read all signage because it uses a latin-based alphabet.
Great point!!!
You are absolutely correct. I also feel that Vietnamese language is closer to foreigners because they use the Latin alphabet. I don't need to learn Vietnamese, but I can also read and speak Vietnamese words 😂
I have spent time in each. I am American retiree. I enjoy both cities. Danang is my choice though for 2 reasons. Chaing mai can be oppressively hot. Danang is on the ocean and seems to have a much better climate. Also the Visa for Vietnam is very attractive.
Great video! I would say Chiang Mai, then Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia, then Da Nang. But honestly, I've enjoyed literally every place that I've been to. The most magical was Sa Pa, Vietnam. It is quite limited for digital nomads but the views and vibe resonated with me.
I loved Sa Pa as well. I love the clothing the tribes wear there.
I prefer Vietnam, but have always viewed DaNang as a hub to get to nearby Hoi An which is a much more quaint & culturally rich town.
Good comparison! I’ve been to both places. Agreed with your assessments. One more thing I noticed is that Chiangmai is cleaner and the locals there are more aware of the surroundings; the streets are cleaner and pretty much free of street trash. In Da Nang, somehow people litter a lot.
This is true! I do find it hard to find garbage cans in Da Nang so I think that may play into there being more litter... But the beach has always been spotless when I am there! :)
@@PortableProfessional You only prefer places that look fancy huh .... Princess
@@PortableProfessional Howdy ! 1 quick question, would make me happy to hear an answer!
But I'm planning a trip to either Vietnam or Thailand for 1 month, and I really am confused about which one will be more fun for me.
- I'm not into clubs, parties, bars, nightlife, restaurants, chilling 24/7 on the beach, etc.
- I'm into tropical landscapes, nature, attractions, sea, ziplines, water sports, animals, diving (open to fill types of attractions, and maybe even a little extreme, such as diving with sharks and such), etc.
Which one you think will be better for me?
Howdy ! 1 quick question, would make me happy to hear an answer!
But I'm planning a trip to either Vietnam or Thailand for 1 month, and I really am confused about which one will be more fun for me.
- I'm not into clubs, parties, bars, nightlife, restaurants, chilling 24/7 on the beach, etc.
- I'm into tropical landscapes, nature, attractions, sea, ziplines, water sports, animals, diving (open to fill types of attractions, and maybe even a little extreme, such as diving with sharks and such), etc.
Which one you think will be better for me?
I'm Chiang Maier, and THANK YOU for choosing our city^^ I totally agreed with you in skipping Chiang Mai during February till May because of smog problems. It's a problem that even locals want to escape away from, but she's our city and we can't leave her. I heard that before Covid-19, there is a flight between Chiang Mai and Da Nang, not sure that they will continue after the epidemic has ends, but if they do; maybe you can hop between the city during the weekend. Work in Chiang Mai during weekdays and go to Da Nang beaches during weekends, perhaps ;)
Thanks for another fun and informative video. As someone else commented, I usually recommend people wanting to explore Southeast Asia start in Thailand first, then branch out from there, as Thailand is a better place to learn the ropes as it easier to navigate and more user friendly than other places. Also, you mentioned the expat community several times, but I hope people won't limit their social circle to only other expats, as meeting local people will greatly expand the experience. Take a local language class to help you really get the most out of where you are. Cheers.
Absolutely agree, Mark. Thailand has just been set up for tourism for such a long time that it's so easy to get around and find things to do. Somehow, despite all the tourists, the Thai people are still so welcoming. Thailand is an incredible country
Both are amazing places! Really nice to hear your commentary and comparison here. Definitely great information that many viewers will surely appreciate. Keep up the amazing content 🙌💯☀️🌿
Thank you, Thanh! Couldn't agree more- they are both wonderful!
Da Nang 100%... epic beaches vs. hot n humid valley
Welcome to Vietnam
Thanks for info! I am interested to visit and live in Danang when c19 dies down.
Da Nang is my home town. Used to live in My Khe town. Miss it so much. Cant wait to back.
There Is No Place Like Home When It Is A Good Home.
Hope you can get back there soon. Such a wonderful place
@@timmyjones1921 it is a good home.
@Flavios Marcianos you're right. Da Nang is changing so quick.
Definitely Chiang Mai. Everything you mentioned are very true for both places and can’t go wrong with either one. Don’t forget that Thailand also have beautiful beaches in Phuket/Pattaya if you need beach get away and Vietnam has Hanoi for beautiful mountain landscapes. Both countries are wonderful to visit. I was there last year and can’t wait to go again.
You compare an ancient city in the mountains to a seaside tourist trading town.
Like you compare Kyoto or Yokohama Where is better? Do you think it is appropriate? Nothing in common. You should compare Da Nang or Pattaya to be more suitable. I have been to Da Nang before, there is nothing like Chiang Mai.The way of life in Chiang Mai is quiet, but Da Nang is busy with people trading.
Thanks for your honesty. Most digital nomads won't mention the burning season.
Such an important thing to be aware of and make an informed decision.
Megan, your videos are so informative and quite enjoyable. My wife and I were in Da Nang a few years ago and were pleasantly surprised on how nice it was. Our choice is Vietnam because we found Thailand much too hot. Great videos, keep them coming.
Good video, covering a lot of points. I know a digital nomad who is American, about 28 years old who goes back and forth between the two. He likes both. I'm going to Chiang Mai soon (I am already in Thailand). Like you I hate the burning season in north Thailand. Take care.
I lived in Chiang Mai for 3 years and yes, it's more home than anywhere else I've been. It has everything I could want in a city - except for ocean air. But you can't have everything!
Having said that, I've been to DaNang twice for short stays and want to give it a fair shake (3 months minimum). I plan to do this once all this nonsense settles down and we can travel again.
Megan again well done. Both two of my favorite places. I will be splitting my time between the two along with my home in Jupiter, Florida. 2021 will be the beginning of a great adventure.
Kool Ken ' kinda sounds like me , U.S. Armed Forces say they should be done processing my military retirement by March 2021 so I have been researching living in Da Nang Vietnam and chatting with my lady pal whom is here in California from Da Nang also . Da Nang is better for me since we have a Navy Base & Air Force Base in Singapore only a 2hr Flight each way from Da Nang and I'm told I can apply for dual citizenship in Vietnam a 6 month process with no paper work games or political games so those type options living near Singapore and No Games in Vietnam are really great options for me & I watch all the travel & living in Vietnam shows I can & type up what to do and how to do it correctly before & upon arrival in Vietnam and Singapore.
@@timmyjones1921 That's so exciting- You'll love Da Nang!!
Woot Woot, Awesome Ken! Thank you for sharing, sounds like an incredible year ahead!
Da Nang is just a developing city by the beach; it's not a nomad hot spot by any means. Like you said, there are "a few" coworking spaces, but there are far more in places like Hanoi or Saigon. You're not going to find anyone in the comments praising Da Nang as an awesome destination for nomad meet-ups and hang-outs. I think you're projecting your own lifestyle onto the city here and trying to make it fit.
I agree with this, people go to Danang for the beach and relaxing lifestyle
Totally agree
Nice video. I like the way Megan says Da Nang & Vietnam. Would love to hear if she uses more phrases in Vietnamese when she is talking about Vietnam.
Apples to Oranges. Mountain City vs Oceanside City. Krabi to Da Nang is a much more balanced comparison. Khao Lak to Hoi An???
Planning on visiting Chiangmai in September. Trying to decide between Chiangmai and Cuenca, Ecuador for a permanent move.
I m thinking of relocating to Chiang Mai in August for most probably a year. I m not so convinced of the beauty of this city but almost all reviews speak very fondly of it.
That sounds amazing! Enjoy your time there!
You got the two cities spot on; great video. I'm still in Da Nang (sad you felt you had to leave) but spent 4 months in Chiang Mai prior. As a remote worker, totally agree on all aspects. I also planned to leave Vietnam before it got too hot (June), it is very hot, you're right there too! Less to do than in CM, and yes, lots of teachers, very few with their own online business so feel a little isolated...but this could be due to all borders still being closed. Lots of musicians so nightlife isn't too bad.
Woot woot, great to hear from you, Marilyn! Both are excellent choices and glad to hear you have had a chance to experience them both! :)
You are correct about both cities.
I made my choice over 20 years ago. I had been going to Thailand for 5 years and decided to build a house on 1 rai of land in Bo sang, between Chiangmai and San Kamphaene. I married a Thai and inherited 3 step children and had one on our own. We moved back to the U.S. for the school system but kept the house. I usually spend 1-2 months a year there except for the last 18 months. As soon as COVID restrictions are lifted, I’ll be over for a 3 month stay. Having a yard big enough to plant trees and have a garden makes all the difference over an apartment. The center of Chiangmai is a 15 minute motorcycle or car ride away. I’ve told my son that the day that he graduates from High School in 4 years, I’ll be leaving permanently for my true home.
I am 63 years old, I am not a digital nomad, I have seen Chiang Mai, Da Nang and .... Seminyak (Bali), If I were young I would go to Bali for the sea and nature, but the food is bad .... so .... thanks for your videos and for the beautiful smile
Awesome, informative, interesting and I will visit BOTH when this pandemic is over.
Da Nang is a beautifull city
Excellent overview of both places. Vietnam is on my short list of next countries to visit...that's how I found your channel 😁. Will definitely add Da Nang as a must visit. Chiang Mai is a wonderful small city and Thailand is almost overly tourist friendly and it's hard to beat the food scene. Anyone going to S.E. Asia should start with Thailand especially if they're new to traveling. Thailand also does have beachs I recommend ones one on the Andaman sea. This may not be best for digital nomads.
Absolutely agree, Stan! Thailand is definitely top of the list for anyone starting out with SEA travel. Such a wonderful place and so easy to travel around. Thanks for being here, I appreciate your patience with me over the last couple weeks 😅
@@PortableProfessional No problem, these are trying times. Just hope you and your family are safe and healthy. No ones going anywhere right now so the next best thing is to travel vicariously by way of other people's adventures.
I have been to both cities & she is on point about both locations.
I lived in da Nang for 2 years and it’s absolutely fantastic overall despite the small inconveniences. Looking forward to check Chiangmai out
what an awesome and informative video. very well done and so much appreciated ....
Useful info 🙂 I have some few travel blogs suscribed, today I discovered two: yours ans some Poles ( niesezonowi ), which make me feel jelaous 😊 keep working and greetings from Sweden 😎
Good information, thank you =)
Good stuff! I was wondering if Da Nang and Phuket or Krabi wouldn’t be a more realistic comparison? I feel like comparing beachy areas to other beach areas makes more sense than comparing the chilled out beach vibe to a somewhat substantial city is a little bit like apples and oranges. Nonetheless I appreciate your comparisons. 👍
What if you're not a digital nomad or have no intention to work at all while living in S/E Asia, which city would you prefer? I really love bicycling, the walking trail along those beautiful clean beaches look ideal for biking, also the roads in Da Nang appear to be wider and less congested than the roads in Chiang Mai, most likely safer for biking and walking.
Both are amazing places with lots to do and explore. It really depends on if you want a mountain lifestyle or beach vibe. I personally prefer the open spaces and living on the ocean. If you are interested in a lot of touristy activities go for Chiang Mai. Lots of really neat things to do and hiking options too. There is more to keep you busy in Chiang Mai, but honestly you can't go wrong. Good luck!
Awesome video. I am going to Thailand in November...first Bangkok then Hua hin. After that I plan to travel around the country and explore it all. Have you ever been toothed cities in Thailand ? Do these tips on Chiang Mai apply to other areas of Thailand? Do you have medical/dental insurance locally or do you just pay for travel insurance?
Great comparison! Havent yet been to either but would sure like to
What do you think about Vung Tau? Have you been there before?
How do you compare the highland city to the beach city!!! Of course the beach city have more fun and more activities!!!
Lol Thailand is way better than Vietnam
Good Video Megan TY For Posting .
Great to have you here, Timmy!!
This was really helpful thank you!
You're so welcome!
Hey Megan nice to see a new video from you. When you didn't post one last week I thought initialy what's wrong with Megan hope she gets better soon. After that minor freak out lol I calmer mind said she must be just and looked forward to seeing this week's Video. Not that those parts of my speak because that would be weird lol. Because Chaing Mai is less a culture shock than Da Nang I'd probably go their first. I might check Da Nang out just because a certainly Canadian vlogger said it was interesting lol. I may merely by accident bump into her there lol. Great video as always.
Thanks for sticking with me, Leo! Just a lot going on workwise and these videos do take a very long time.😅 Nothing wrong, just wasn't able to fit one in the last couple weeks. Hoping to get back to being more consistent again. Thank you for checking in!
@@PortableProfessional you're welcome Megan
Thought you’re professional traveler. Each country different environment and culture! I traveled many countries and I never ever compared.
Well, the title say this video is for digital nomad, if you just a traveler, you can ignore it, but digital nomad need these type of comparision to make a choice, because they will live there long term
Nice video! I would definitely prefer the nice beaches over excursions. There are a lot of options other places in southeast Asia like Bali the Philippines or Taiwan
Totally agree!
Great video! When are you planning to start travelling again?
Likely not until 2021, but we will see :)
Sounds like your best scenario would be half the year in each city. Did you ever do that?
Girl you rock! Thanks! :)
Thanks for a very informative video. If you want to live as a retiree in one of these two place which one do you think would be a better choice, given the cost of healthcare and English as a spoken language?
Am I the only one who finds The Boondocks theme song in this video absolutely hilarious 😆
Chiang Mai
I love Chiang Mai, well im Vietnamese and love my country but i like to experience somewhere not in my country. Tho going to Đà Nẵng was a blast
🤣 Chán cơm thèm phở hả bạn
Haven’t been to either yet but planning on moving to Da Nang at the end of the year! 🌊
Vietnam has new visa laws as of July 1st 2020. It Will be impossible to stay in Vietnam long term without a work permit. Please check new visa laws before packing your bags for Vietnam or Thailand
Hi Megan. For some reason you look so familiar.
Did you take karate in Ottawa like 15-20 ago?
I'm living in Danang for few years & still love it👌, would be to meet up & have some new friends 🤩
I love Thailand and Chiang mai people are friendly and love Thai food. next time you shoud visit Koh Samui or Koh Chang
I know Chiang Mai well, been there about 8 times and I like it a lot but my favourite town in SE Asia is Siem Reap in Cambodia.
It’s much smaller than C. Mai so it’s an easier walking town and much easier to make friends with the locals more easily.
Siem Reap is worth a look as a retirement destination ...I’ve been there 30 times in 18 years and basically lived there the last 5 years.
Great reviews and thanks. But there are many other places in both countries which will fit more in your lifestyle. Visit the country few times before you desire where to live. Danang is not my fav, more in Quy Nhon city for me.
Very informative. Thank you
I used to run along the beach in Boca Raton early in the morning. There wasn't seaweed (later in the day); because vehicles drive the length of the beaches scraping the seaweed off the sand. So the question becomes did you go to the beach early enough to run across seaweed.
I usually went late afternoon, never saw any seaweed but i am not sure about early mornings. Sounds like a lovely habit to have picked up!
Are shops okay with people camping out for hours for just a cup of coffee？
DA NANG 100% the best and will visit again and again.
Can you help me understand why you would choose Chiang Mai / Thailand to visit and remain within a foreigner bubble ? Unless I missed it, do you try to integrate into local community life that is not foreigner based ? Thanks 🙏
Let's face it. Most of these people want an Anglosphere "bubble" to live in that's ~25-50% the price of home. Sure don't get me wrong, the food, culture, people etc. are all very exciting, but for most Westerners the price is what it all boils down to to some extent. They want "exotic" stuff on demand whilst also having a sense of "home" whenever they're in the mood for it.
Also, unless one is truly fluent in the local language, surely having conversations with people of only ~6-8 year old English literacy equivalent gets old at some point. I'm not judging either; I teach online and leave for Cambodia in less than a month.
informative, thanks
Chiang Mai. I love that place (when the air is breathable)
To pay 30-40 ฿ to the Song Thaew for piggybacking with the other passengers is a pure rip ! They must bring you straight to your destination. 15฿ should be reasonable enough. I'm thai in BKK but haven't ridden on those red Song Thaew. Whenever I go to Chiang I drive my own car to and around city( the whole province ,to be exact).
เริ่มต้นที่คนละ 20 บาทในเส้นทางรอบคูเมืองเชียงใหม่ หรือประมาณไม่เกิน 4 กิโลเมตร เช่น ประตูท่าแพไปตลาดวโรรส และอาจจะเพิ่มขึ้นเป็น 30 บาทในเส้นทางที่ไกลกว่านี้, รถติด, หรือเดินทางคนเดียว ในกรณีที่เดินทางจากสถานีรถไฟเชียงใหม่, ขนส่งอาเขต ค่ารถเข้ามาในเมืองประมาณคนละ 50-100 บาท
@@CVC-CSS เห็นมีคนบ่นมานานเรื่องรถแดง ผมไม่ใช่คนพื้นที่ต้องใช้ประจำ แล้วอย่างที่บอก จะแพงแค่ไหนผมก็ไม่ได้ใช้อยู่แล้ว ถ้าคนพื้นที่รับได้ก็เรื่องของคนพื้นที่ แต่นักท่องเที่ยวอย่างผมว่าแพง
Greetings!
Do you have any travel medical health insurance suggestions for me that
would cover the Covid-19 ?
Thank you!
Covers COVID as of Aug 2020. The travel insurance I trust and also cheapest I’ve found! They covered my flight from Vietnam to Canada a few months ago. Goodluck! bit.ly/PortableProfessional-Insurance
@@PortableProfessional Thank you very much and please stay safe Megan.
That's a pretty good breakdown of both. Having never been to Da Nang, and having only stayed in Chiang Mai for 3 days, my vote shouldn't even count. lol... But my gut definitely tells me Chaing Mai is the place for me
I love Thailand and Vietnam and Cambodia and Laos
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Hanoi to Laos by bus
HCMC Saigon to by Bus combodia.❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Thailand by air from Hanoi or HCMC.❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Awesome..
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Thanks guy! Where are you from?
I heard the Thaiwanese have great food, so, it's got to be Thai for me. . .if I gotta make a choice of which to visit between the two.
Sorry you mean Thailand, not Taiwan
Let me make you clear. Taiwanese live in Taiwan, but Thai people live in Thailand to eat Thai food.
Thailand has great food indeed, Vietnam has HORRIBLE food
I wonder how digital nomads handle SMS 2FA and authentication login codes sent to their USA numbers when they are no longer living in the usa?
I use T-mobile, never had a problem travelling all of Asia.
Covered my solution here :m.ruclips.net/video/GBgBmYHiPUE/видео.html :)
You are a perfect hostess. .thanks for vidio
Can't wait for the borders to reopen!
Have you done a video on Nha Trang??
No... I actually haven't been yet!
robin golden We spend a month there. It has a good vibe but it geared to Russians.
@@evelinholmes6401 I'm retired from US. Beach girl, so that was my 1st option. Anything else you can tell me would be great. I could give you my email
😂 for me, I’ve been to both and it’s Thailand all the way😂
Was planning on going to Chiang Mai on my first trip to Thailand, but at 108 degrees F, a little too hot for me. Da Nang does seem to be a great place to visit in Nam and not far from other sites worth visiting away from the big cities.
Hope to get to both once the virus thing is over.
Also, check your spelling of "avoid" towards the end of your video.
btw as a canadian would you be taxed on your income as a digital nomad? technically a digital nomad does not have a place of permanent residence
It's generally unwise to not declare at least one nation for tax purposes. For more information, check out Nomad Capitalist and his youtube content.
Are you legally allowed to work as a "digital nomad" under a tourist visa? I thought the quintessence of a tourist visa is that you are restricted to work.
Grey area. If your client or employer is in Thailand and paying into a Thai bank account then it probably is employment. If you answer calls or emails or do some work online for a non-Thai client or employer paying into a non-Thai bank account, then it becomes a grey area.
What about the press of people, I lived a few years in Chiang Mai and there are just too many people in a small area, what is Da Nang like.
You travel mostly in Asia. Haven't you thought about trying to travel and explore countries in Europe, Africa and the Middle East?
have you tried KL?
Chiang Mai with an Elite visa is bomb
SG chases BK
Vung Tau chases Pattaya
Phu Quoc is abreast with Phu Ket
Da Nang competes with Pe Nang (malaysia)😊
Historically, the original Viet/Kinh before been rules by Han-Chinese were considered as Austro-Asiatic which is the same group as Mon-khmer. I red that they originated in Southeas Asia around Red River Delta. The thing that make Viet/Kinh a little bit diffrent from other Mon-Khmer ethnics is they have been rule by Han-Chinese for like 1000 years, So that will explains why they looks diffrent from other Austro-Asiatic (Mon-khmer) ethnics and with heavily influenced of Han-Chinese culture.
By the way the Thai/Dai are originated in South of China and considered as Tai-Kadai ethnic, but move down to Southeast Asia in 13th century. Also the original Tai/Dai genetic are also closely related with in Zhuang/Cantonese in China. Tai/Dai never be invade and rule by Han-Chinese just like Hmong and Zhuang, so culturally their culture aren't close to Han-Chinese culture. By the way genetically they seem to be obviously related to Northeast Asian not any less than Vietnamese. Also Thailand is currently world's bigest Han-Chinese Comunity outside of China, there are 9.5 millions of pure 100% Han-Chinese. Also estimated over 50% of total population are Han-Chinese hybird (30million are Thai-Chinese). So genetically I think Thai are more related to Chinese than Vietnamese .
By the way culturally Vietnamese is obviously more related to Han-Chinese than Thai, but not genetically.
Genetically and culturally is diffrent story and have to be divide apart.
Tai-kadai people were weak and lake in culture, so in the time they move down to Southeast Asia and war with native people of Indo-Chia which is Khmer. Tai-kadai seem to be absorbed into Khmer culture because Khmer civilization on that time were considered as powerful and rich in culture. So this would explains why modern day Thai/Dai in Thailand and Laos are influenced by Khmer culturally.
This is really same case as how Mongolian conquered China but on that time the Mongolian were weak and lake in culture, by the way Han-Chinese were powerful and rich in culture. So those Mongolian obviously absorbed into Han-Chinese culture.
do you mean the whole of asia is of han/ chinese ancestry?
Why is it important?
Mountain and sea 🤔🤔
I'm a Chiang Mai girl!
VietThai and NamLand
Damn good guy!
Why would anyone move to the tropics but live hundreds of miles from the nearest beach in air-polluted Chiang Mai? Phuket Town or Penang has the best of both worlds of Chiang Mai and Da Nang, without their downsides, and they're only a 40 minute flight from each other.
Thank you, Megan 👍🌹
You are so welcome!
Chiang Mai vs Sapa,Da Nang vs Phuket , Da Nang have Ocean Chiang Mai not .
It's too bad that both Thailand and Vietnam are making it more difficult for long term stay for foreigners.
U the reason I came here was to see a comparison between similar cities not apples and orange ...
With the Covid-19 Da Nang is not that safe anymore. I know several people that got robbed and I got my iPhone 11 stolen from a motorbike catcher 20 meters next to my House. Chances this will happen in a Buddhist Country are very very low.
About boring: I don't know why people say Da Nang is boring. You have plenty of nightlife options, beach and mountains. The Beer Bars are almost every Day full and alcohol is a lot cheaper than in Thailand.
In Chiang Mai 70% of the western people go almost every weekend to zoe / spicy and some smaller foreigner bars. Da Nang is missing the digital nomad scene but after meeting on most of the events in Chiang Mai only beginners with no income that are trying to be nomads i stopped visiting them. Because your conversation will be 99% the same bullshit aka what are you doing for a living? how? bla bla
one more point about Dating for Men:
Women in Chiang Mai / Thailand are a lot easier than in Da Nang / Vietnam. In Thailand most of the time you smile at a girl and she will come to your home. In Vietnam, it's very different. You need to go out with some girls around 2-3 times before you even can kiss them. Its a lot more conservative here. I think for a girlfriend/wife Vietnam is better. For enjoying your single life = Thailand for sure, even if you compare Saigon to Chiang Mai.
For me personally Vietnamese Women are a little bit better looking. But most Women here want to marry and have a serious relationship. So be aware of this!
Da Nang for sure. I am Thai.
No comparison
Chaiang Mai for sure. I’m Vietnamese!
Of course, because Thai people like Vietnamese girls like me. 555
This video seems to be aimed at Americans, and Americans aren't going to be allowed into either Thailand or Vietnam for *quite* some time-very likely not at all in the remainder of 2020-so I don't really get why you're promoting them in this way. You're going to get the hopes of a lot of people up when they can't go there. And believe me, I am bummed about it myself because I'm an American who wants to go to both countries.
Relax! Thailand has opened up for international tourists from Nov 2021. Now, anyone vaccinated can enter Thailand with just 24-hr quarantine 😁
Thank you
You did not cover Shopping, that was a major failure from your side.