Q1. Where did you move to and when?

I moved back to the north of England at the end of 2024, so I've been back about six months.

Q2. How long did you work in Thailand?

I was in Thailand for just under two years - from early 2023 until late 2024. I spent most of that time teaching at a school in the Bang Kapi area of Bangkok. It wasn’t a glamorous setup and it was long days, big classes, but the students were generally respectful, and I enjoyed the teaching itself.

Q3. What was your main reason for moving?

The main reason was the money. I was earning 40,000 baht a month, which sounds alright until you try living on it in Bangkok. Rent, food, transport - it all adds up quickly. I was constantly scraping by, with nothing left at the end of the month. I’m 57, and I just couldn’t see myself building any kind of stable future there. No savings, no pension contributions, no healthcare security. It got to the point where I realised I was just treading water. So I made the call to return home, even though it wasn’t an easy decision.

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

Yeah, I’m working now, doing some supply teaching at local secondary schools around my home city. It’s not full-time yet, but it’s steady enough, and the pay is far better than what I was making in Bangkok. Even with fewer hours, I can actually cover my bills, put a bit aside, and not stress about every little expense.

The big advantage here is the safety net. I’ve got access to the NHS, I’m back in the national pension system, and there’s some sense of long-term stability. In Thailand, as a foreign teacher, you’re pretty much on your own. No real benefits, no path to residency, and if something goes wrong - health-wise or financially -you’re in trouble.

Also, professionally, I feel more respected here. In Bangkok, foreign teachers can feel a bit like disposable labour. Back home, even as a supply teacher, I feel like part of the system again. That makes a difference at my age.

Q5. So you're obviously a qualified teacher, so why come and work for 40K in Bangkok when you could surely have found something better?

Good question, and one I’ve asked myself a few times since coming back. The truth is, when I first moved to Thailand, I wasn’t expecting to stay long. I was looking for a change of scenery, something different from the UK classroom grind. I had some savings, figured I’d do a year or so, travel a bit, recharge. At the time, 40K baht didn’t seem that bad, especially compared to just sitting around at home.

Also, I was a bit naive. I assumed with my qualifications and experience I’d quickly move into a better-paying job, maybe an international school or a well-established private institution. But in Bangkok, those jobs are competitive, and most places want younger teachers or people already in the private school circuit. I didn’t have the connections or the patience to wait it out.

And once you’re locked into that 40K lifestyle, it’s hard to climb out of it. You're too busy trying to make ends meet to be chasing better gigs. In hindsight, I probably should’ve held out for something stronger, or just gone for the international route straight away.

Q6. What do you miss about life in Thailand?

Plenty, actually. It wasn’t all struggle. I miss the pace of life. Even in a city as hectic as Bangkok, there was this underlying sense of calm. People weren’t as wound up as they often are here. The street food culture was a big one too - being able to grab a fresh, hot meal for 50 baht just around the corner. I miss that spontaneity. And the warmth, not just the weather, but the people. The smiles, the little chats with the lady at the noodle stand, the students bringing you snacks for no reason.

I also miss the sense of adventure. Even a simple trip to the market could feel like something new. You’re never bored over there. And the sunsets. Sounds cheesy, I know, but those evenings with a cold Leo, and nowhere in particular to be - that sticks with you.

Q7. Would you advise a new teacher to seek work in Thailand or where you are now?

It depends on the teacher and what they’re looking for. If someone’s young, adventurous, maybe just starting out or looking for a break from the UK system, then yes, Thailand can be a fantastic experience. You’ll grow personally, see the world differently, and probably fall in love with parts of the culture. But go in with your eyes open: the pay at most language schools or government gigs is low, benefits are minimal, and long-term prospects are shaky unless you get into an international school or land a niche role.

If someone’s older, qualified, and thinking long-term like I was, it’s a tougher sell. Unless you’ve already lined up a good-paying job at a reputable school, or you’ve got passive income or a pension to fall back on, it can be a grind.

So, for a young teacher with low overheads and a sense of adventure? Sure, go for it. For someone with bills, responsibilities, or retirement on the horizon? I’d say think carefully and maybe look closer to home.

Q8. Any plans to return to Thailand one day?

Never say never. Thailand gets under your skin in a way and it’s hard to leave it behind completely. I wouldn’t rule out going back for a holiday, or even a short teaching stint somewhere quieter, like Chiang Mai or the islands. But not to try and “make it” again in Bangkok. I’ve done that, and I know the limits now.

If I ever go back, it’ll be on my terms - either semi-retired, with savings behind me, or just to enjoy the place without the pressure of surviving on a local salary. But as far as living and working there full-time again? Unlikely. I think I’ve made peace with that chapter being closed.

Q9. Anything else you'd like to add?

Just that teaching abroad isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay. It sounds romantic but the reality can be pretty tough. It takes grit, flexibility, and a willingness to adjust your expectations.

For me, Thailand was a valuable chapter - full of lessons, some great memories, and a clearer idea of what I want at this stage in my life. If anyone’s thinking about it, I’d say do your research, talk to others who’ve been there, and be honest about what you need financially and personally. It’s an adventure, but it’s also a job and sometimes, that’s the hardest part to balance.

And finally: never underestimate the value of community. Whether at home or abroad, having good support around you makes all the difference.

Q1. Where did you move to and when?

I moved back to Sydney in early 2024.

Q2. How long did you work in Thailand?

I taught in Thailand for just over three years and I taught at a private bilingual school in Chiang Mai that catered to both Thai and international students. I mainly taught English and some basic science.

Q3. What was your main reason for moving?

There were a few reasons really. First, I started to feel like I’d hit a bit of a ceiling professionally. I loved teaching in Thailand, but there wasn’t much room to grow beyond what I was already doing, and I didn’t see a clear long-term path for myself there. Secondly, and probably the biggest reason - I missed home. After three years, the novelty of living abroad started to wear off, and I found myself craving more stability. I missed things like Sunday brunch with my family, beach walks, and just being in a place where I truly understood the system and culture. Plus, I wanted to start planning for the future, career-wise and personally, and that felt easier to do back in Sydney. And honestly, as much as I loved Thai food, I missed Vegemite toast and a proper flat white!

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

Right now, I’m working as a learning support officer at a public primary school in Sydney while I finish up a postgrad course in special education. It’s been a really good transition role - less pressure than being a full-time classroom teacher, but still very hands-on and meaningful. Eventually, I’d like to move into a specialist teaching position working with kids who have learning difficulties.

In terms of advantages compared to working in Thailand, there are a few big ones. First, job security and clarity. In Australia, everything is very structured. Contracts are clear, pay is consistent, and you know your rights. That wasn’t always the case in Thailand, where things could feel vague or change suddenly without much explanation.

Another major difference is access to professional development. Here, there are more opportunities to grow and get further qualifications, and schools actually support that. And of course, working in a system where you speak the language fluently makes a huge difference, whether it's communicating with parents or dealing with admin stuff.

Also, I’d be lying if I didn’t mention the work-life balance. In Thailand, you’re sometimes expected to go with the flow no matter what. In Australia, things are more structured, and when you clock off, you're actually done for the day. That’s been a big plus for my mental health.

Q5. What do you miss about life in Thailand?

There isn’t a week that goes by where I don’t think about Thailand in some way. I really miss the warmth of the people. Thais are incredibly friendly and welcoming, and there’s that easygoing, laid-back vibe - sabai sabai, as they say - that made everyday life feel less stressful. Even when things were chaotic or disorganized at school, there was always a smile or a laugh to break the tension.

I also really miss the food. You can find Thai food in Sydney, of course, but it’s just not the same. I miss being able to grab a delicious bowl of khao soi or a plate of pad kra pao for a couple of dollars from a roadside stall. And the fruit - fresh mango, papaya, dragonfruit—it was just everywhere, and so cheap.
And then there’s the travel. Long weekends meant hopping on a bus or flying down to the islands. That kind of spontaneous adventure is a lot harder to come by back home, both in terms of cost and time.

But mostly, I miss the simplicity of it all. Life in Thailand often felt more present and less rushed. People took their time. Things didn’t always run on schedule, but somehow, they worked out. That’s something I try to carry with me even now.

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

That really depends on what the teacher is looking for. If someone is just starting out and wants adventure, cultural immersion, and a bit of a challenge, then yes, I’d absolutely recommend Thailand. It’s an amazing place to live and work, especially if you’re open-minded and flexible. You’ll grow a lot, not just as a teacher but as a person. The lifestyle is great, the travel opportunities are there, and the experience can be incredibly rewarding. But if someone’s looking for structure, clear career progression, and long-term professional development, I’d probably suggest staying in Australia - or at least being cautious and selective about where they work in Thailand. Not all schools are created equal, and it’s really important to do your homework before accepting a job over there.

That said, I don’t regret my time in Thailand at all. It was one of the best decisions I ever made. But it’s not a forever-job kind of place for everyone, especially if you're hoping to build a long-term teaching career. So I guess my advice would be: go to Thailand for the experience, not just the employment. If you treat it as a chapter in your life rather than the whole book, you’ll probably love it.

Q7. Any plans to return to Thailand one day?

Definitely, but probably not to live full-time again, at least not in the near future. I’d love to go back for a visit, though. There are still so many places I didn’t get to explore, and I have friends there I’d love to catch up with. Chiang Mai will always feel a bit like a second home to me, and I can see myself going back for holidays, maybe even doing some short-term teaching or volunteering down the track.

That said, never say never. If the right opportunity came up, who knows? Life has a funny way of circling back sometimes. But for now, I’m pretty settled in Sydney and focused on building something here. Thailand was such a special chapter in my life, and I think I’d like to keep it that way - a place I return to with love, not out of necessity.

Q8. Anything else you'd like to add?

I guess I’d just say that teaching abroad - especially in a place like Thailand - is one of those experiences that really stretches you. It’s not always easy, and it won’t always match the dreamy Instagram version people imagine, but it’s incredibly eye-opening.

You learn to be resourceful, to communicate across cultures, and to adapt when things don’t go according to plan - which, in Thailand, is kind of the norm! But you also gain a deeper appreciation for what it means to be a teacher and a person living in a global world.

If anyone out there is on the fence about going, my advice would be: go with an open mind, a sense of humor, and realistic expectations. Thailand gave me some of my hardest moments, but also some of the most beautiful and unforgettable ones. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

Q1. Where did you move to and when?

I moved to Macau, then South Africa, and then Japan. I left Bangkok about ten years ago.

Q2. How long did you work in Thailand?

Three years.

Q3. What was your main reason for moving?

Purely salary. In Macau I made about 120K baht per month and in South Africa about 75K baht per month. In Japan it will be slightly lower, but less stress as I am only working as an assistant language teacher so it should be less marking, setting exams, meeting with parents, fewer sports commitments etc.

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

I work in Tokyo now and everything is better apart from the cost of the rent. You get a residence card for a year and if you want to switch jobs, you have three months to find a new one. You don't have to prove where you are every minute of the day either.

Q5. What do you miss about life in Thailand?

The food and rental prices in Bangkok. Also, lower taxes I guess (because here you have to pay into social security).

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

It can be trickier to get into Japan, but I would say Japan. Then you could try Bangkok later, if you can get a higher salary with a bit of experience. Going to Thailand for 30-40K baht a month has no upside that I can think of.

Q7. Any plans to return to Thailand one day?

I might go on holiday to see the friends I made. If I could earn at least 70,000 baht per month, I might be willing to work there, but there are still issues around relationships (sin sod, women struggling to find and keep jobs after 35 years old, etc).

Q8. Anything else you'd like to add?

Stop accepting terrible salaries. Someone (recruiters / agencies / government officials) is making a lot of money from the ESL business. As long as people see Thailand as a dream destination and are willing to work for peanuts, nothing will change. There are many other options out there. If enough people choose them, the salaries in Thailand will have to go up in order to compete.

Q1. Where did you move to and when?

A city on the outskirts of Hanoi, Vietnam in October 2024

Q2. How long did you work in Thailand?

Just over two years.

Q3. What was your main reason for moving?

A couple of reasons. I'd heard that Vietnam pays more than Thailand, is cheaper and is a step up on the career ladder. I also felt that a change of scenery would be nice.

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

Honestly, very few. While it's true that Vietnam pays more than Thailand, a lot of the positions are zero-hour contracts meaning no work-no pay, especially bad during the long, unpaid Tet and summer breaks. I heard that some of the salaried gigs are better but they're few and far better.

Q5. What do you miss about life in Thailand?

Almost everything.

I hated Vietnam pretty much since I got off the plane and emerged into the dirty, noisy, traffic choked streets of Hanoi but I'd already committed to the move, sold my things in Thailand etc and it wasn't easy to just go back.

Work didn't get better. I moved to an ugly industrial area an hour's drive from the lights of Hanoi. It's filthy, dreadfully polluted and with little to do besides drink. I got scammed by three different companies since coming to Vietnam and am so burnt out with the place. Thailand isn't without it's problems but Vietnam (or at least the north) makes Bangkok look like Singapore.

I miss everything. The tasty and abundant foods, the 7-11s, the affordable modern apartments with pools, the sunshine (Hanoi is so dreary and polluted you often can't see what the sky looks like), the friendly people, nightlife and the friends I had there.

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

I understand I sound negative and I won't dismiss all of Vietnam because I know people who came and loved it - but I can't leave quickly enough and I wouldn't recommend Vietnam for new or experienced teachers.

Teachers here really need to do their research as there are so many scam employers, a better question would be where is it safe to work. Yes, pay is overall higher but the quality of life is less. Even international schools aren't safe from the trickery as evidenced with the recent scandal at a well-known school in Saigon.

If you are a new ESL teacher, start out in Thailand and have your fun before moving on to the big bucks in China.

Q7. Any plans to return to Thailand one day?

Definitely. I'm planning to move to China in August and take regular holidays back in Thailand.

Q8. Anything else you'd like to add?

Not that I can think of.

Q1. Where did you move to and when?

I returned to South Africa in 2022

Q2. How long did you work in Thailand?

Five months

Q3. What was your main reason for moving?

I was having a hard time obtaining a non-B visa.

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

I was born here and lived here for most of my life so it's a country I know well.

Q5. What do you miss about life in Thailand?

Cheap accommodation and food, fabulous markets and various cultural events. It is also easy to travel around, plus I miss the friends I made while I was there.

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

Definitely Thailand

Q7. Any plans to return to Thailand one day?

Yes, but only for a holiday.

Q8. Anything else you'd like to add?

I loved my short time spent in Thailand and I would have made a plan to stay if I had not been offered a job in my home country.