Q1. Where did you move to and when?

I moved back home to Seattle, Washington in January 2017

Q2. How long did you work in Thailand?

About a year and a half in two different secondary schools.

Q3. What was your main reason for moving?

Two reasons. Firstly, as the months passed, I realized from everyone back home all the weddings, funerals, parties and graduations I had missed in just under two years. I wasn't homesick in any way because I did like the life I was living in Thailand but I felt like I was missing out on moments that I will never get back.

Secondly, I thought about the future. I'm still in my twenties but I'm not saving anything worth bragging about. I don't get a pension and I can't own land? No sir.

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

Its very different. I only see two advantages. First being I'm contributing to my pension and social security again. That was one of my main concerns upon leaving. Secondly, I'm working in the field I studied in to begin with.

Other than that the work is harder and the expenses in The U.S are much higher.

Q5. What do you miss about life in Thailand?

I miss the weather and just the simple life in general. I miss the currency. It was weird using US dollars again. I also miss the hospitality. You're not 'special' once you return home if you know what I mean.

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

It would depend on the situation. We don't all live the same life.

If you're a qualified teacher sure, but if you're a potential ESL teacher like I was, then know when to stop.

Set other goals for yourself and don't get stuck. I met many older English and Americans, particularly in Northern Thailand, living from paycheck to paycheck, some with marital problems with their Thai spouses, others fighting with the mother of their children on who gets what. Seriously, who would want that?

Q7. Any plans to return to Thailand one day?

Yes, I've always said the next time I return to Thailand it'll be as a tourist. There are still many places I haven't been to and I wouldn't have been able to go to to begin with given the salary I was getting.

Q8. Anything else you'd like to add?

I enjoyed my time in both Esaan and Bangkok while I was there. I accept the experience for what it was but it's not a place I would ever stay long term. Some find their niche and make it work while others just get stuck in a rut.

There's lots to do in Thailand but work-wise there are better options elsewhere and you gotta know when to tell yourself it's time.