Every year, when we take our Semester Program students to Koh Chang in Trat Province, there is one place we always return to—not because it is the newest resort on the island, but because it represents something much more meaningful to us.
This place is Khaonok Homestay…
It sits quietly by the sea, run by a local family who started welcoming guests more than 30 years ago—long before electricity reached this part of the island. Back then, visitors slept together in shared spaces, lived simply, and enjoyed meals prepared with care. That was the original meaning of a homestay: living together, not just staying overnight.
Today, the homestay has naturally grown with time. There is electricity now, comfortable facilities, and plenty of delicious Thai food for guests. But what has never changed is the heart of the place.
And that is exactly why we bring our students here.
A Relationship That Began with One Visit
Our connection with Khaonok Homestay goes back to the early days of Thailand Experiences Foundation.
Before the Semester Program even fully developed, our CEO, David Jackson, stayed here himself. At the time, there was still no air conditioning. The facilities were simple. But what stood out was something far more important—it was clearly a real local homestay, built on family land and run with genuine care.
That first visit shaped what came next.
Since then, we have continued bringing students here because supporting local families like this has always been part of the foundation’s purpose.
Staying Local in Chang Island
Over the years, parts of Koh Chang have changed. Some coastal land once belonging to local residents has been sold and transformed into large resorts. Tourism has grown quickly.
But P’Pom, the owner of Khaonok Homestay, chose a different path.
She kept her family’s land and continued running the homestay the way it was meant to be—personal, welcoming, and community-centered. Most of her guests are Thai travelers, and meals are prepared only for those staying at the homestay. Even when outside visitors ask to come just for dining, she politely declines.
It is her way of protecting the privacy and atmosphere of the people who stay there.
Activities That Stay Within the Community
One of the highlights of our Koh Chang trip is going out on the water together—snorkeling, exploring nearby islands, and experiencing the coastline from a local perspective.
The boats we use are not commercial tour operators from outside the area. They belong to relatives and trusted community members connected to the homestay itself. This means every activity supports families who live there and also it creates experiences that connect students with real communities.
If you are interested in learning more about Khaonok Homestay or planning a visit, you can contact them directly:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/khaonok456
WhatsApp: +66 96-116-6355, +66 87-141-9871
You can also see more of the atmosphere here:
