Q1. Where did you move to and when?

Back in 2022, I went back to the chilly winters of Canada. After five years of teaching in Thailand, I decided it was time for a change. I packed my bags, said goodbye to my students, and went back home to study for a master’s degree in Educational Technology. It was a huge step, but I was ready for a new challenge.

Q2. How long did you work in Thailand?

I spent five largely enjoyable years teaching English at a couple of schools in Chiang Mai. At first, it was just meant to be a short-term thing - maybe a year or two - but I guess Thailand pulled me in, as it does so many others. But eventually, I knew I wanted to take my career in a new direction.

Q3. What was your main reason for moving?

I loved teaching, but I started getting interested in how technology could be used in education. I wanted to learn more about things like digital learning platforms, AI in the classroom, and how tech can make education more accessible. Canada seemed like the right place to do that, so I decided to apply for a master’s program. It wasn’t an easy decision, but sometimes you have to take a leap.

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

The biggest difference is the work and study culture. Things are a lot more structured in Canada, with clearer career paths and professional development opportunities. In Thailand, things felt more relaxed, which was great, but I sometimes felt like I was just floating along. Here, I feel like I’m working toward something bigger. Also, the exposure to cutting-edge education technology has been mind-blowing. Back in Thailand, I was using a whiteboard and markers most of the time. Here, I’m learning about AI-driven lesson plans, virtual reality classrooms, and all sorts of cool innovations that I never even thought about before.

Q5. What do you miss about life in Thailand?

Where do I start? The food, obviously! Thai street food beats overpriced, bland sandwiches any day. I miss grabbing a bowl of noodles or a plate of pad kra pao. I also miss the weather. Winter in Canada is no joke. Some days, I look out the window afetr a heavy snowfall and wonder why I ever left the sunshine. But more than anything, I miss the people. Thai culture is so warm and welcoming. I miss the easygoing vibe, the constant smiles, and the fact that there was always something happening, whether it was a random festival, a street parade, or just a casual night out with friends.

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

It depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re just starting out and want an adventure, Thailand is perfect. The lifestyle is great, and you’ll get tons of teaching experience while enjoying an amazing country. It’s also a great place to figure out if teaching is something you really love. But if you’re looking for long-term career growth, you might eventually want to move on. There are fewer opportunities for promotions in Thailand, and salaries can be limiting if you have long-term financial goals. If you’re serious about making a career in education, especially in tech or curriculum development, then countries with more structured career paths might be a better fit.

Q7. Any plans to return to Thailand one day?

Definitely! I don’t know when, but Thailand still feels a bit like home to me. I’d love to come back and work on education projects, maybe something that brings more technology into Thai classrooms. I’ve also got a list of Thai islands I still need to visit, so a long holiday at some stage is definitely on the cards.

Q8. Anything else you'd like to add?

A great pal of mine recently passed away suddenly at the age of 38. He never drank or smoke and lived a pretty healthy lifestyle. Stuff like this changes your mindset. If you’re thinking about making a big move, just go for it. It might sound scary at first, but you never know where life will take you. When I first moved to Thailand, I had no idea it would shape my career and introduce me to some of the best people I’ve ever met. Life is short. I implore you to take the leap!