Q1. Where did you move to and when?

I moved back to the UK's south coast three years ago.

Q2. How long did you work in Thailand?

A total of ten years. I worked in Bangkok for two and then in Nakhon Pathom for eight.

Q3. What was your main reason for moving?

My kids education. They were six and four at the time. And also to put some stability back into my life.

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

I'm an engineer by trade so the money is better but probably the most important thing is stability - I know exactly where I'll be working and how long for. The contract you sign actually means something!

Q5. What do you miss about life in Thailand?

The weather and the general chilled out feeling. No rushing around.

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

Working in Thailand was great until more responsibility came my way. (kids) If you're free and single Thailand for a few years is great. If you're married and have kids I would think of somewhere with more security and long term prospects.

Q7. Any plans to return to Thailand one day?

I still have a house there, so definitely. However it would only be to visit for holidays for the time being. I would like to retire in Thailand but we shall see. I've still got thirty years left of work yet! I don't think I could ever work in Thailand again though.

Q8. Anything else you'd like to add?

I was petrified of leaving Thailand. I had lived there for 10 years and really couldn't imagine living back in the UK. Three years after leaving I know I made the right decision. My kids love it here. The education is great and our lives feel a lot more stable and safer, if a bit more boring.