Q1. Where did you move to and when?

Xi’an, China. Feb 2017.

Q2. How long did you work in Thailand?

I worked there for eight years from March 2009 to February 2017.

Q3. What was your main reason for moving?

I was happily teaching four classes (20 hours a week) of A-level maths and physics at an international school for 53,000 baht a month. When they tagged on an extra IGCSE physics class (pushing the total of contact hours up to 25) I managed two weeks before walking.

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

1) Salary. 110k/month.
2) Accommodation. I get a luxurious, fully-furnished, two-bedroom apartment for free. This would cost about 20k/month in Bangers. It’s also walking distance to school. So no tuktuks, scooters or MRT commutes.
3) Annual return flights to the UK. All paid for by the employer.
4) Workload. I now teach 16 x 45-minute periods across two classes. It’s a foundation maths program for Australian/American universities. Basically, half the work for double the money.
5) Weather. Can’t believe I’m saying this because this was my biggest fear after 8 years in the tropics, however, I love walking miles around this city … without sweating.
6) Public Transport. Air-conditioned buses are clean, frequent and cheap (5 baht regardless of distance). A brand spanking new subway conveys you across the city for 9 baht. I forgot what decent public transport was like.
7) 630ml beer (similar to a big Leo) is 9 baht in the supermarket. Yes … you read that right…. NINE baht.
8) The treatment and support I have experienced have been incredible compared to Thailand. I was even met at the airport!

Q5. What do you miss about life in Thailand?

1) Bumguns. Thailand has this sooo right.
2) The lingo. I could read/write/speak Thai proficiently.
3) Motorbiking around the provinces.
4) The wonderfully warm Thai folk (away from the tourist traps). I think I miss them the most.

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

Thailand. It's an exotic paradise in the tropics. What’s not to like? It gave me everything during my time there. But if it’s about money, then come to China.

Q7. Any plans to return to Thailand one day?

Probably. Although I have Mongolia, the Stans or Central America in my sights now. Got to keep this teaching adventure rolling. If I do return to teach it will be in a quiet Isaan town, far away from any tourist ghettos. Back to the 30k/month slog but I'll have a big wedge in the bank after working here so mai pben rai.

Q8. Anything else you'd like to add?

I find the negative comments about Thailand on here disappointing. I loved my time there. I worked in both government schools (28k/month – lol) and international schools in Trang, Phuket, Pattaya, Bangkok and Chiang Mai. T'was an awesome ride.