Q1. Where did you move to and when?

I moved to Saudi Arabia eleven months ago.

Q2. How long did you work in Thailand?

Four years.

Q3. What was your main reason for moving?

The extra money. I couldn't continue to live on 32,000 baht a month.

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

I get 125,000 baht a month teaching approximately 10 hours per week. I sign in at 6.30 am and sign out at 12.40. The commute back to my apartment is just 15 minutes, so I'm back home for one o'clock in the afternoon. I have a fully furnished apartment etc all paid for. The company takes care of all the travel arrangements too. They're also very generous with the holidays and I get approximately 3 months per year. I'm based in Alkhobar, Dammam, which is just 30 minutes from Bahrain.

Q5. What do you miss about life in Thailand?

My wife is Thai and still lives there so being separated from her is difficult. I'm only working in Saudi now so that I can secure my future in Thailand. I love my life there, and have been back for three holidays over the past 11 months. There are so many things that I miss about Thailand.

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

Most jobs in Saudi require 4 or 5 years experience, so I'd recommend Thailand as a place to start your teaching career. Although, you must have a plan and know when to move on.

Q7. Any plans to return to Thailand one day?

Yes, of course. I've travelled to a lot of places but you can't beat Thailand. The quality of life, the food, the weather, the beaches. The grass isn't greener elsewhere.

Q8. Anything else you'd like to add?

Whether you're working in Thailand or Saudi Arabia, if you treat people with respect, you'll find that they are friendly and helpful.