Q1. Where did you move to and when?

I returned to the UK on 31st of March of this year.

Q2. How long did you work in Thailand?

Three academic years.

Q3. What was your main reason for moving?

I only planned to stay in Thailand for two years but ended up staying one more because I was in a relationship. When that ended that was my cue to leave.

Also, it was the height of summer, and I absolutely hate the March to May period when it's horrible to spend more than about a minute outside. I was so glad to land in London on 1st April in 16 degrees celcius sunshine. Being able to spend all day outside doing activities is something I love but could only dream about in Thailand.

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

Everything. i can't think of a single disadvantage of working in the UK over Thailand. Hopefully that answers the question.

Q5. What do you miss about life in Thailand?

I think it would be a great place to retire, but it's no place for working age Westerners. After two years, any novelty it had more than worn off, and I was living a dreary Thai rat race existence. I can see why so many teachers there become alcoholics.

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

I think there is something wrong with any Westerner who would want to make a long-term career of teaching in Thailand's educational system. If you can get into an international school with a foreign boss then fine, but working for Thais absolutely sucks.

Thai working culture sucks horribly, especially the grovelling, corruption, laziness and blatant discrimination.

Q7. Any plans to return to Thailand one day?

For the occasional holiday I expect, but I want to see the rest of the world first. Later to retire perhaps, although I'd probably choose Penang, Malaysia over anywhere in Thailand.

Q8. Anything else you'd like to add?

You can't leave your problems behind by going to work in Thailand. Same problems, different place.