We've found paradise at last

Ignore the sob stories and the doom merchants - Thailand rocks!

We've both been here about six months, have only done two visa runs, had both our employers apply for our work permits for us, have started saving money as we actually make a little more collectively than we did in South Korea - and are both loving life again. Life really couldn't be much better.

Are degrees required to teach?

Opinion continues to be divided

Three things which seem unavoidable are death, taxes and debates on ajarn.com about the requirement for teachers of having a degree. Those without degrees generally argue a degree is not necessary, while those with degrees will normally make the case a degree should be required.

Skin colour and entertainment

Postbox letter from Dave Watson

Filipinos or other teachers who were not born white can, however, also be great teachers. Maybe given more time Thais will start acknowledging this

Patience is a virtue

Postbox letter from Jeff

The way I finally started to see it, one may have all the qualifications they believe to get the job, but there's one 'qualification' Thais truly desire that they don't always mention.

The darker the skin, the smaller the wage?

Postbox letter from Lyndsay Anne Cabildo

I know for a fact that since the native English speakers have spoken English since the time they were born, they think they will do better as an English teacher.

The tattoo curse

Is body art affecting your job prospects?

An ajarn reader wrote in to ask for advice. "I'm clean and well-presented with a good resume. But is the tattoo that covers most of my hand going to hold me back?" Over to you.

Teacher employer etiquette

All we're asking for is a reply

I feel it is just unprofessional that if someone well qualified for an advertised job takes the time to research the job and your school, then you as an employer should have the courtesy (manners) to acknowledge that application even if the applicant may not be right person for the job.

Ridiculous!

Postbox letter from Lauren

Your insinuation that school staff members hire cheap teachers so that they can squander the extra money on drinking is uncouth and plain culturally ignorant!

The longer I stay here

Postbox letter from Marvin

The longer I stay here the more I realize this country is unlikely to change. Now I am not saying that old teachers are the best teachers but I know teachers who have been here for 8 or 9 years and all their experience seems to be pushed aside for a younger crop who are to be fair more handsome and maybe have more energy.