What Our Guests Have to Say
Real stories from residents, weekend visitors, and their families about life at Chang Haven.
Back to HomeGuest Reviews
Honest reflections from people who have spent time with us.
Margaret Rawlings
Perth, Australia
I came for the Seasonal Program during the cooler months and ended up extending into an annual membership. The staff remember the little things — my preferred tea, the time I like to take my morning walk. That kind of attention isn't something you can fake.
February 8, 2026
Hans Kruger
Stuttgart, Germany
I spent three months at Chang Haven and found it to be a well-run community. The cultural activities were the highlight for me — especially the pottery sessions and the visits to local temples. My only wish is that the Wi-Fi were a bit stronger in the garden area.
January 28, 2026
Yoko Tanaka
Osaka, Japan
My daughter suggested I try the Weekend Retreat before committing to anything longer. By Sunday morning, I was already asking about the seasonal program. The food is wonderful, the people are kind, and the pace of life here suits me perfectly.
February 15, 2026
Peter Thornton
Vancouver, Canada
After my wife passed, I needed a change of scenery and some company. Chang Haven gave me both. The community is warm without being intrusive, and the weekly excursions to local markets gave me a reason to look forward to each week.
February 3, 2026
Sarah Bennett
Bristol, UK (daughter of resident)
My father has been at Chang Haven for six months now. He calls me twice a week and sounds happier than he has in years. The staff keep me updated, and they helped arrange my visit last December. I felt very welcome and reassured.
January 22, 2026
Robert van der Berg
Amsterdam, Netherlands
I've lived in several countries over the years and have stayed at a few retirement communities. What makes Chang Haven different is the connection to the local culture. The Thai language lessons, the temple visits, the market trips — these aren't tourist activities, they're part of daily life here.
February 19, 2026
Guest Stories
A closer look at how time at Chang Haven has shaped some of our guests' experiences.
From Weekend Visitor to Annual Member
The Situation
A retired teacher from Melbourne, recently widowed, was looking for a meaningful change of environment without the hassle of managing a rental property abroad. Her son suggested she try the Weekend Retreat to see if community living suited her temperament.
What Happened
During her weekend stay, she joined a morning tai chi session, attended a Thai fruit carving demonstration, and had dinner with three other guests. By Sunday, she felt a connection to the community that she hadn't experienced in months of living alone.
The Outcome
She returned for the three-month seasonal program and, after her first quarter, transitioned to an annual membership. She has now been a resident for over a year and regularly participates in the community garden and pottery classes.
A Family Decision That Brought Peace of Mind
The Situation
A retired businessman from Singapore had been dividing his time between Singapore and Thailand for years. His adult children were concerned about him living alone in a rented apartment in Chiang Mai, but he was resistant to the idea of a structured facility.
What Happened
His daughter discovered Chang Haven online and arranged a weekend visit for the family. The open, non-institutional atmosphere and the quality of the staff convinced both the father and his children that this was a good fit.
The Outcome
He enrolled in the seasonal program and later became an annual member. His family visits twice a year using the guest accommodation included in his membership. The regular updates from staff give his children confidence that he is well looked after.
Finding Community After Retirement
The Situation
A retired couple from Sweden had always dreamed of spending winters in a warmer climate. After exploring options in Spain and Portugal, they turned their attention to Southeast Asia and were drawn to Chiang Mai's reputation for affordability and culture.
What Happened
They signed up for the seasonal program, arriving in November. Within the first two weeks, they had joined the community gardening group, started Thai language lessons, and made friends with three other couples from different countries.
The Outcome
They have now completed two seasonal stays and plan to return each year for the cooler months. They describe it as their "Thai home" and say the friendships they formed at Chang Haven are among the closest in their lives.
By the Numbers
8+
Years Welcoming Guests
340+
Guests Hosted
4.7
Average Guest Rating
15+
Countries Represented
Reach Out to Us
Phone
+66 53 862 749Address
112 Moo 3, Mae Rim
Chiang Mai 50180
Office Hours
Mon–Sat: 8:30–17:30
Sun: 9:00–15:00
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Whether you're curious about a weekend visit or ready to plan a longer stay, we'd love to hear from you.
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