Q1. Where did you move to and when?

I moved to Nanjjng in 2011 after working in Bangkok from 2002-20011. I planned on getting IB teaching experience and then returning to Thailand after 3 years. In the end I worked in Nanjing for 5 1/2 years and have just returned to work in Bangkok.

Q2. How long did you work in Thailand?

Nine and a half years.

Q3. What was your main reason for moving?

Gain essential curriculum and teaching experience and save a boatload of cash.

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

The advantages were exactly what I set out to do - to get cash and marketable experience.

Q5. What do you miss about life in Thailand?

I missed the food, nightlife, internet, living standard, value for money of most things, weather, air quality (yes, Bangkok air is fresh compared to Nanjing), blue skies, clarity of the air, definition of clouds rather than an amorphous white haze, sparsity of rude people, lack of horrifyingly rancid breath, lack of loud people and incesssnt car horns, drilling, pounding and hammering noises.

I missed people who are not pathologically programmed to be lazy, obstructive, combative, unhelpful and unpleasant, I missed the smoking free atmosphere as well. I could add more, but my finger is tired.

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

If you seek a good paycheck and/or need to obtain legitimate curriculum experience then a stint in China is good for those goals. I saved $40,000 US a year and I spent every holiday outside China for about 13 weeks a year. If money isn't an issue and/or obtaining relevant experience isn't either then go for Thailand. I came back after my goals were accomplished.

Q7. Any plans to return to Thailand one day?

Yes. Already done.

Q8. Anything else you'd like to add?

Not really.