After COVID-19, retired foreigners are returning to stay in Chiang Mai, as evidenced by the increasing number of listings catering to older people. There are numerous bookings annually, especially in Japanese, American, and English. In addition, Chiang Mai is preparing to encourage tourism operators to penetrate the health market to create a new experience for retired tourists.

     There have been reports from hotels and rental houses that foreigners in retirement have stayed and begun to express their desire to return to stay longer. In addition, foreigners who come to Chiang Mai are impressed with the natural atmosphere and food available to eat, including health systems that accommodate older people. 

     After the reduction of the COVID pandemic, more than 20% of retired foreigners are expected to stay in Chiang Mai for the long term, distributed in Chiang Mai City and outer districts such as Hang Dong and Mae Rim San Sai. The residential area will be close to the city, and they can go to the hospital immediately if they have any health problems. 

     According to the provincial survey, foreigners of retirement age spend an average of 75,000-100,000 baht per month, compared with an average resident’s spending of 10,000-20,000 baht per month, and other expenses such as food, fitness, and medical checkups once a year. Businesses that support groups of foreigners of retirement age in Chiang Mai are quite ready to accommodate them. Government agencies will have to ensure that there is a standard business operation, especially accommodation for foreigners. Someone must help take them to a nearby hospital immediately if there is a disaster.

     In addition, Chiang Mai also seeks to encourage more local spending and expand the market through various activities, along with health tourism, to provide a variety of activities for the age range. At the same time, it seeks to expand the market to encourage retired Thai people to stay in Chiang Mai more in the future.

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