Uttaradit
A quiet northern town where life moves at its own unhurried pace. It’s not flashy, but offers affordable living and a genuine slice of rural Thailand. Teaching opportunities are limited, but if you’re after peace and simplicity away from the tourist trail, this could be your spot.
The Lonely Planet guidebook says......?
Nothing at all on the Lonely Planet website but according to Wikipedia, the Durian Festival is held here each year around the beginning of June. The province is most famous for two varieties of durian which lack the usual offensive odour. It's not looking good is it?
In general, what are the pickings like for an EFL teacher?
The Anuban Uttaradit School is always on the look out for native English-speaking teachers. There is also a boys and girls high school that usually needs teachers as well. Traisas Witaed Suksa School is one place that's often looking for teachers but there are a number of other schools too. There is also the Rajabhat University in Uttaradit. That is always worth a try.
How far from Bangkok or civilization?
Neighboring provinces are Phitsanulok, Sukhothai, Phrae and Nan. To the east it borders Laos. Uttaradit is 488 km north of Bangkok, and 238 km from Chiang Mai. Far in other words.
What's the place like for nightlife, eating out etc?
There are quite a few watering holes around town plus a disco connected to one of Uttaradit's main hotels. There are a few places around town where you can get a western food fix (like most other towns in Thailand, there is the usual KFC and a Pizza company) There is also a French cafe called Le Château Uttaradit. This unique establishment is owned by a chef who returned from France and infused the café with a homely, European ambiance.
However, there are so many great places to buy fresh ingredients. Why bother going out when you can prepare and eat meals at home!
How much to rent a house or basic apartment?
Normally you will be looking at around 3,000 - 6,000 baht a month for rent. It all depends on what you want. You can rent a house here for about 6,000 to 8,500 a month.
Shopping malls, department stores?
Shopping is nothing compared to a big city like Bangkok of course. Uttaradit does have a department store which sells clothes, shoes and cosmetics but it's pretty crap. It also has a Tesco Lotus and there are many little shops dotted around town selling stuff. There are of course plenty of fresh food markets.
How is mobile / internet coverage?
Very good even for a relatively remote location such as this.
Will you be stared at? and what's the likelihood of a good beating?
Anywhere, apart from at the tourist attractions, you will be looked at but apart from the odd small child pointing out that you are not Thai, it is pretty laid back. If you go looking for a beating, it will be there waiting for you, otherwise, no. Teachers have been living here for many years and have never had a problem with the locals. There are actually quite a few foreign teachers plus retirees in Uttaradit. If a beating was going to be handed out it would most likely be from the foreigners and not the Thais. The locals are very nice in Uttaradit and they help 'outsiders' a lot.
Taxis, buses....or horse and cart?
Grab is available if you need to order a cab (but probably impossible once darkness falls). There are motorbike taxis that are usually pretty decent and do not try and overcharge if you can throw some Thai language at them. The best thing is to have your own motorbike as this is what most foreigners use to get around town.
Main advantages of living there?
It's pretty quiet, so if you really want to see what it is like to live in Thai society, then this is the place. Chiang Mai is about four hours away by bus or six hours by train. It's a cheap and easygoing place to live - a peaceful town with a slow pace of life.
And what are the downsides?
The downside is that there is not a lot to do or go and see, plus it gets damn hot during April and May. In the hot season it can easily get up to 43 degrees. Many folks would probably find the place boring and lacking in opportunities.
Any local attractions?
Phu Soi Dao National Park features Thailand’s fifth-highest mountain at 2,120 meters. The park is a haven for nature lovers and hikers, offering breathtaking trails through pine forests, vivid wildflower meadows, and waterfalls like Saithip and Phu Soi Dao Falls. Another prominent natural site is the Sirikit Dam, Thailand’s largest earthen dam, where visitors can enjoy peaceful boat rides, and floating accommodations in a serene reservoir environment.
The province also offers some truly unique sites, like Ton Sak Yai Forest Park, home to what is believed to be the largest teak tree in the world, estimated to be more than 1,500 years old. It’s a tranquil spot perfect for picnics and forest walks. Just a short drive from the town center is Mae Phun Waterfall, a multi-tiered waterfall ideal for a refreshing afternoon escape.
Meanwhile, in the heart of the town stands the Phraya Phichai Dap Hak Monument, dedicated to a legendary local warrior famed for fighting valiantly with a broken sword.
For those interested in cultural immersion, a visit to Laplae District is a must. Once thought to be an invisible city protected by legend, Laplae is now famous for its traditional crafts, calm village atmosphere, and its celebrated production of langsat (longkong), a delicious local fruit.
Where's the best place to meet other farangs or are they best avoided?
Most farang will be at home but there is a restaurant called "New York" which is/was owned by a German. You will often find a foreigner there eating a steak.
Situated near the main hotels in town, Cha-ba Bar is known as a gathering place for foreigners. It's a casual venue where travelers and expatriates can relax and socialize over drinks.
Tucked away down a small soi, XL Steakhouse is praised for its excellent beef ribs and cozy ambiance. While it might be a bit challenging to find, it's worth the effort.
Located on Chetsada Bodin Road, Brew Up Café is a stylish spot offering a good range of food and drink options. It's a nice place to unwind with friends or meet new people in a relaxed setting.
