Chiang Mai (Thailand)

The unofficial capital of digital nomads and solo travelers, Chiang Mai outperforms #2 for affordability. Co-working spaces in every neighborhood cost under $100/month, night markets where you eat pad thai next to people from 30 countries, and a Thai cooking class scene so active you'll bond with strangers over green curry by 10am. The old city is walkable, safe, and street food meals average just $1.50.