Q1. Where did you move to and when?

I moved back to the UK and trained to be a primary school teacher in 2007. Now in an International School in Ukraine teaching Year 5 of the English National Curriculum.

Q2. How long did you work in Thailand?

Four long years.

Q3. What was your main reason for moving?

Money, purely money and career opportunities. I was loving living in Thailand but the thought of growing old in Bangkok earning 40,000 baht for the rest of my life really got to me. I was approaching 30 and had basically enjoyed life in Bangkok. But it wasn't a career. With my rent, bills etc and putting a little aside each week there wasn't much left.

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

Money, career opportunites. I earn a UK salary here, with a free apartment and tax-free income. I have two flights per year and one month's salary bonus per year. Three months off a year and I mostly teach European children now with a few British kids thrown in. Trust me, that makes life easier. I have a pension and recently qualified for an expat mortgage to buy in the UK. It was the best decision I ever made becoming a fully qualified teacher.

Q5. What do you miss about life in Thailand?

Food, sun and my swimming pool!

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

I would say go to Thailand but don't get trapped. Many men do. Life is easy and it can suck you in. Best practice is if you want to be a teacher for a good deal of time, then train as a 'teacher teacher' then go back to Thailand and work for an international school where the packages are amazing.

Q7. Any plans to return to Thailand one day?

Why not...

Q8. Anything else you'd like to add?

Enjoy ESL teaching but know its not a career in Thailand. It's an experience...a great one, but don't plan your life around it. ESL teaching in Bangkok is underpaid and under appreciated.