Lampang, Thailand

Capital City

With a population of just 55,044, Lampang is a small, sleepy city in northern Thailand that lacks the glitz and excitement of tourist hubs like Chiang Mai. While the historic Burmese-style temples and horse-drawn carriages offer a quaint, nostalgic atmosphere, the reality is a persistent bureaucratic headache and air pollution from nearby coal plants that can mar the city's natural beauty. Lampang's relative isolation and languid pace make it a poor choice for those seeking an urban, cosmopolitan experience, but it may appeal to more adventurous expats or retirees seeking a slower, simpler life in Thailand.