I came to Bangkok full of excitement, ready to teach English and embrace the energy of the city. And for a while, I did. The chaos, the nightlife, the endless street food - it all had its charm. But there’s one thing I can’t take anymore: the pollution. Every morning, I wake up, check the AQI, and sigh. Another day of thick, hazy air, another day of masking up just to walk to work. It’s exhausting, and it’s time for a change. I need fresh air, blue skies, and a place where I can breathe freely. The only question is where?

Chiang Mai is an obvious choice, but the burning season makes it just as bad as Bangkok at certain times of the year. Hua Hin? It’s got the sea breeze, but does it have enough to keep life interesting? What about Chiang Rai? Quieter, cleaner, and cheaper, but will I miss the buzz of city life? There’s also the islands—Koh Samui, Phuket, or even Koh Lanta. The idea of living by the beach, with fresh ocean air and a slower pace of life, is tempting. But how easy is it to find a decent teaching job there? And what about infrastructure? I need reliable internet, good healthcare, and a community of fellow teachers or expats.

Another option is Isaan - places like Udon Thani or Khon Kaen. They’re far from the pollution of Bangkok, offer a lower cost of living, and have a more authentic Thai culture. But will I feel too isolated? Will I miss the convenience of city life? I know Thailand has plenty of beautiful, livable places, but picking the right one is the challenge. Do I prioritize clean air, job opportunities, or lifestyle? Any suggestions?

Tony