Q1. Where did you move to and when?

I moved to Beijing China about 4 months ago

Q2. How long did you work in Thailand?

I lived and worked in Thailand for about 2 years.

Q3. What was your main reason for moving?

I wanted more money. I was tired of the humidity and go-go bars. It was a 'perfect storm' of events that all colaborated together I suppose...

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

So far - none really. More money, but the same ol' problems. You have to get on a plane to do a visa run from Beijing! Oh gawd!

Q5. What do you miss about life in Thailand?

I miss that first year as a teacher there - when everything was brand new and so... exotic isn't the word. You know when you hear the Thai national anthem for the first time and see all the students doing the wai. It's like being on another planet. I can still remember my first students. I'll never forget them.

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

Do not come to China without at least one year of teaching experience. You will get ripped off harder than you would in Thailand. For example: Where I work now I make $1666 a month. There is some young kid at the same school who makes $2500 a month, even though he has no experience - but he was a direct hire. Then there are two girls with no experience also, and they are making $800 a month. Our agent is screwing them hard because of their lack of experience. She's screwing me too, because I should be making $2500 a month!

Q7. Any plans to return to Thailand one day?

Maybe to become a monk or do Muay Thai (Thai boxing). I don't want to end up strung out on Hong Tong again...

Q8. Anything else you'd like to add?

No.