Pai

In Hippies We Trust

Sai Ngam Hot Spring, Pai

65

60

Overview
Pai is a small paradise many travelers and backpackers are passing through, mostly for short periods of time but a strong local community is also a dominant and vibrant part of the scenery. You can call it a hippie town for sure in the sense that the vibe is slow and boho fashion style, but also in the mindset and crowd that settled here.

The beauty of it exceeded our expectations. Driving from the hot springs to the waterfalls and canyons was just as attractive as the tourist destinations. Between the mountains and rice fields, it does feel a bit surreal.

Note that between January and April, give or take, the area suffers from smoke pollution originating from the crop burning season in these massive agricultural lands.
Co-Works
Unfortunately, online professions and remote work are not very common in this region, so modern shared offices are not available. The few cafes can make up for it sometimes, but finding a place with a comfortable place to work from can help in between cafe hopping.
Nomad Friendly Cafe's

The Pedlar

Our favorite spot in terms of comfort and workability. The breakfast options are very tasty and the coffee is good. You can either work from a table chair or on a sofa where you can lean back. Try the burritos!

Om Garden Cafe

A very Instagrammable spot, this garden-themed cafe has plants rooted decoratively between the chairs and walls, tempting those with a green thumb. A portion of their menu is vegan-friendly and overall their menu is good. No matter what you choose, it's all very well made. The outer desks are very relaxing and comfortable to work from for remote workers.

Lemon Thyme Cafe

Another trendy and modern fusion restaurant that does amazing food, with its own vibe that attracts many regulars and people passing by.

Earth tone

As the name suggests, you do get a bit of an earthy and grounding atmosphere in terms of the setting, but also from their healthy superfoods and fresh fruits and vegetables. The internet is decent, so this cafe seems like an obvious choice to work remotely from, or even just to read a good book!

Ganita cafe

A popular place as well, although it is not always possible to get a comfy table, though the food itself is enough reason to visit. Most of the food is Vegetarian and health conscientious, yet delicious.

Coffee in love

A coffee place on the side of the road with a crazy good view of the valley and the mountains. The internet is fast and their coffee is reasonable. However, only cake and pastries are served as food options.

The House Café Homestead

A cute coffee shop on the mountain with great food and a village atmosphere due to the nature and animals surrounding its location. The chairs and outlets are not ideal for working, but the internet is good enough if you come for a short visit.

The stir-fried rice noodle dish is one of the most popular dishes in Thailand. You probably won’t miss it, just remember to order the spice level based on your tolerance for spicy food.
Restaurants and Bars

Jazz house

A venue that just reopened when we visited after two years on and off due to covid. Apart from that opening evening which turned out to be incredible, we understood from locals that this jazz house never disappoints to make the crowd sing and dance along.

Good Life Dacha

A restaurant and guesthouse proudly owned by a cute couple that serves as a cultural hub and venue for public events. On Sundays, they host an open fire show evening where anyone can bring his/her own performance to the music. The menu is very diverse, serving Russian, Thai, Italian, and Mediterranean cuisine. On Saturday, don't miss the home goods market that is happening right in front of the Good Life Dacha

Witching Well

A restaurant and wine bar with excellent service and staff, and an even better food and wine selection. The price might be higher than the average Thai restaurant but due to most of the produce being imported it is acceptable. The place is owned by a lovely Italian man who is always in the mood to chat.

10RAI sunset dining

A unique and breathtaking restaurant in the middle of a secluded location, looking over the valley from one side and a perfect view to watch the sunset. It's not on high land, though the large planes are enough to create a beautiful setting.

Art in Chai

They say Pai wasn't that touristy a few years back, but this small and simple place is a reminder of those times. It has a bohemian and charming vibe while serving freshly brewed tea and healthy food. Just a nice place to relax and maybe grab a chat on the way.

Cafecito

"Almost authentic" Mexican food, but in a good way. In other words, their food is made using their own personal touch, giving it a fresh, delicious taste. Their tacos are legendary!

I Love U Pai Cafe

Just when you think you've seen plenty of coffee shops with great views, you come here and remember there is probably never enough, at least not yet. This cafe has a good view of the mountain and nice food, but the main attraction is the rounded swings that function as chairs on the second floor.

More Reads

Ljubljana

Is it Balkan vibe? European vibe? We found out that Ljubljana is one of the most beautiful and chilled cities...

Gili Islands

The paradise islands triplet just off the coast of Lombok. These three islands are known for their white sand, turquoise...

12 Photography Tips

Uploading irrelevant content, blurred photos, or odd stuff on any social media account will lead to a worse experience. Being...

Koh Phangan

If you are a spiritual seeker, an easy going backpacker, adventure loving digital nomad, a party seeker dropout, or even if...

Split

A great base in the Dalmatian district with medieval feeling together with young dynamic vibe makes it a very interesting...

Sofia

Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, is a vibrant blend of historic architecture and modern urban life, nestled at the foot...

Phuket

An Island that is known to be a tourist spot, for the good and bad. But actually, you can find...

Bansko

Bansko, nestled at the base of the Pirin Mountains, is Bulgaria's premier ski resort in winter and a hiker's haven...