Q1. Where did you move to and when?

I moved back to the UK in May 2019.

Q2. How long did you work in Thailand?

I worked in Bangkok for around 3 years (2 different spells)

Q3. What was your main reason for moving?

I returned back to the UK due to lack of career progression. I have a BA in TESOL and a CELTA with experience in China and the UK. The language centre where I worked was great, but hourly paid work lacked security, with no holiday or sick pay. When the centre closed for the summer you might get little work.

I loved the job as I got to teach a range of abilities and ages, but it wasn't worth the uncertainty of not knowing how much you'd take home each month.

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

I am currently completing my PGCE after spending two years working in digital marketing during Covid.

Believe it or not, I really like the variety of food in the supermarkets here. Eating out without getting Bangkok belly, being able to use the pedestrian crossing knowing cars will stop, and being able to go outside without being drenched in sweat.

But on a serious note, pension is a massive bonus, and access to finance is a huge pull. I hope to buy my own place this year so that is an advantage.

Q5. What do you miss about life in Thailand?

I miss Thailand a lot, I still have a lot of friends and definitely missed it during my two years away due to Covid. I managed a trip back to Thailand during Christmas and it was great.

I miss the humidity and chaos of Bangkok, the smiles from the locals, the freedom that you have, and of course the food!

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

Yes, definitely! Just make sure you have a long-term plan.

Q7. Any plans to return to Thailand one day?

Yes! Once I have 2 or 3 years experience teaching here, definitely. I just want to come back to a stable job with career progression and a decent wage. But before that I'm planning on spending two months in the Summer in Thailand.

Q8. Anything else you'd like to add?

Thailand is a great place but it's easy to get caught in the trap of being there too long without career progression. Most importantly enjoy the little things, explore when you get the chance and do things you wouldn't do normally.