The Great Escape

Q1. Where did you move to and when?

I moved back to the UK in 2003

Q2. How long did you work in Thailand?

Three years

Q3. What was your main reason for moving?

The lack of opportunities in Bangkok and of course definitely the money. The pay was simply too low. Even 30,000 baht ten years ago didn't cut it. Lord knows how teachers survive on that kind of money nowadays.

Q4. What are the advantages of working where you are now compared to Thailand?

I now work in Cairo. I went back to the UK, trained to be a teacher and it was the best decision of my life. My job opportunites increased hundred-fold. My jobs came with flights, housing, bonuses and huge paid holidays. International school teaching can be the only way forward if you are going to teach abroad and make a carrer out of it.

Q5. What do you miss about life in Thailand?

It's a great place for someone in the early twenties - as I was when I was there. It's a great place for a holiday too. But I am 34 now. I couldn't imagine working there again. It would simply be for a holiday.

Q6. Would you advise a new teacher to seek work in Thailand or where you are now?

By all means work in Thailand because you'll have a great experience. But don't stay more than a couple of years if you are teaching English. I have friends still in Bangkok that I met in 2001. They are still ekeing out the same existence, earning a pittance. But they are addicted to the easy life and the girls, etc. Don't get yourself trapped like that. You will waste your life.

Q7. Any plans to return to Thailand one day?

My girlfriend and I go every year for a vacation.

Q8. Anything else you'd like to add?

Go to Thailand for a few years, relax and enjoy it. But if you are teaching English and not working in an international school, don't make a career out of it! You might not be lucky enough to escape.