This is one of those questions about teaching English in Thailand that many don’t think about. But, I want you to think long and hard about it. Especially if you are going through a recruitment company or agency. Many native English speakers want to teach English in popular places like Bangkok, or Chiang Mai, or in Trang (a beach city). They can often be difficult to find jobs in these places because of the popularity. I want you to be prepared that it might not happen.
Every school in Thailand hopes for a native English speaking teacher and are willing to pay extra for one. This means small town places can occur. This means schools in rural Thailand in the Northern region, Issan Region, Southern regions, and coastal towns are all hoping for an native English speaking teacher.
There is a chance you might end up in towns no larger that 10,000 people. There could be a chance you get placed in village towns, where it’s over an hour by bus to the nearest “big” city. This means that there might not be a lot going on or other foreigners placed in the town.
Be prepared that you could be on your own or, that there may only be a few other foreigners in the same city. I had teaching friends placed in the small town of Tak, a small town of Phayao, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Hat Yai, and many more.
7 Comments
Alli
I loved this! I’ve considered teaching abroad before, this was great information. Thanks girl!
Nicole | Mapless Adventures
Thank you so much!
Emma
Really good to know how this is in Thailand. I taught English in China for 2 years and really had no idea what I was getting myself in for. I loved it but know now that teaching isn’t for me. Always interested to know how it is in other countries
Kelly
What an experience this must have been! I can imagine how difficult it would be, just like any teaching job, but with being in a different culture. It takes a special person to be able to do this.
Nicole | Mapless Adventures
Thank you! It honestly makes me sad that I’m not there teaching right now. I didn’t think I would miss it so incredibly much!
Amber
Super helpful post. I’m living in China at the moment and actually considering moving to Thailand in a year’s time so I may have some questions for you 😉
Nicole | Mapless Adventures
That’s awesome! I hope things are going well in China! Absolutely! I can totally answer any questions that might come up!