The worst type of foreigner
Why bash other people's lifestyles and situations?
I live in a closet with no air-con and a fan. I live off of a diet of air, water and noodles. Sure, I can't afford to travel, save for retirement, get my own place and I haven't seen my family for years because I can't afford a ticket to go home and visit them, but I am living the Thai lifestyle man!
Don't get angry, just have an escape plan
Postbox letter from Anon
Salaries have been frozen here for years, the cost of living has rocketed and the workloads have increased. I now have to work online too to make a decent salary.
Reward them and they will come
Postbox letter from Mark Newman
The Thai government could make it a whole lot easier for native English speakers to want to be here with a few simple changes that would cost nothing.
Is the end nigh for agencies?
Postbox letter from Tracey
My teacher agent / friend in Korat has had it far too good for far too long. In the last maybe three years, his business has gone to the dogs. He can't find new teachers and the ones he has are basically children themselves
Chasing the big bucks
The ongoing and exhausting search for a well-paid teaching job
I'm just not making enough money to make it worth staying at my current posting. What with student loans, a mortgage, and other bills to pay, not only am I saving zilch for retirement, but I'm also barely breaking even month to month.
Get realistic Thailand!
Postbox letter from Ryan
I think Thailand needs to be more realistic about what it's looking for with TEFL teachers. You don't really need any qualifications to teach TEFL at the real TEFL level other than being a native-speaker and having a CELTA, etc.
Don't accept paltry salaries
Postbox letter from John
Many teachers are not too concerned about how much money they make because they are only here to have a good time
Take the first job you can get
It's all about getting a foot in the door
There are "Teachers in Thailand" rooms that I belong to that say don't settle for anything less than 40K when it comes to a teaching job, and although I do agree with them, that's easier said than done.
The Status Quo
Postbox letter from Keith in Dubai
I enjoyed my stay in Thailand, but from week one, I knew it would only be for a short period of time.
Why I work in a language centre
Thai high schools? Never again buddy.
The benefits of a good language centre far outweigh those of a high school. The freedom, work conditions and financial package make it the best option for me.