As an English-speaking citizen, from an English-speaking country – you don’t need much else in the line of qualifications to teach English in Thailand. It is the law of the jungle that the more qualified you are, the higher pay you will receive but you don’t need a degree to teach English in East Asia. However, I strongly recommend doing an accredited TEFL course to get your foot in the door, if you would like an easy route towards teaching english in Thailand. These courses are offered either online or in-classroom and can take as little as 120 hours of study. Various packages and options are also available to assist …
Thailand’s Friendly Culture and People
Once you have taken up a position teaching English in Thailand, you will discover why this interesting country is known as ‘The Land of A Thousand Smiles’ and why it has become such a popular destination for tourists as well as those seeking gainful employment. It’s not just the fantastic food and scenic beaches either. The people of Thailand are a nation of contrasts, composed of a mix of Indian and Chinese influences with a strong base of Thai elements. Each of Thailand’s four regions has unique characteristics of its own, with one similarity – it seems that the folk here are perpetually grinning with inner satisfaction, or some wonderful …
TEFL Can Be a Career and Not Just a Job
While most people teaching English as a foreign language see it merely as a way to earn money while travelling the world, there are those who fall in love with teaching and choose to make a career of it. There is no reason why you too should not make a career of this gratifying and important profession. With commitment, dedication and extra effort, any job can turn into a successful career. There are those individuals who started off as TEFL workers who are now studying towards their PhDs in ESL or similar fields. By planning long-term goals and seeking promotion, you too can build a successful career out of TEFL, …
The Festival of Loi Kratong in Thailand
Loi Kratong is one of the most beautiful festivals in Thailand and takes place on the day of the first full moon during the twelfth month of the lunar calendar, which is usually in November. The word ‘loi’ means ‘to float’, while ‘kratong’ refers to the vessels which are used in the celebrations. The kratongs are fashioned out of a slice of a banana tree trunk or a hollowed out loaf of bread. These are then decorated with ornately entwined banana leaves, topped with flowers, incense sticks and candles. Sometimes a few strands of hair or fingernail clippings are placed in the kratong to symbolise past transgressions and negative experiences. …
Songkran Festival Will Have You Fixin’ for a Fight
Come April, the fight is on in Thailand, but don’t head for the hills – grab your water pistol and join in! The Songkran Festival is the world’s largest water fight, officially taking place from 13 to 15 April every year, and the most fun you can have in Thailand while getting your feet, and the rest of yourself, wet. Like so many interesting happenings in the world, Songkran is closely linked to belief and symbolism and is seen as a chance to quite literally cleanse yourself of all the previous year’s wrongdoings, wash away your troubles, and refresh mind and soul for the year ahead. We think it is …
Should You Teach in Thailand?
Ten reasons why you should say, “YES!” The Children. Plain and simple, the students are amazing in Thailand. Teachers are highly respected in Thai culture, just below Buddhist Monks. When Thai children pass you in the hallways, they stop and Wai (bow their heads with their hands pressed together in a sign of respect and honor). Plus, it doesn’t hurt that the students here really want to learn English. Through teaching you immediately become aware of their humbleness and gratitude. There is no sense of entitlement among the students you will teach in Thailand, and the parents are extremely supportive in the learning process. You’re wanted. Along with the students, …
Making the Most of Your Time Teaching in Thailand
Teaching in Thailand can be a rewarding, life-changing experience. It can be a springboard for adventure, an opportunity to build your resume, or a place to make your stand. However, you’ll never know Thailand, much less Southeast Asia, if you stay surrounded by Western co-teachers and friends hanging out with Western tourists eating hamburgers and pizza. As James Michener once wrote, “If you reject the food, ignore the customs, fear the religion and avoid the people, you might better stay at home.” In that spirit, here are some ways to make the most of your time teaching in the Land of Smiles. Take time to learn the language! Even learning …
The Inthakin Festival in Chiang Mai
June 1-8 2016 The Inthakin Festival in Chiang Mai (also known as Sai Khan Dok or Bucha Sao Inthakin), starts on the 12th day of the waning moon of the six lunar month and lasts eight days. The festival is centered around the Temple Wat Chedi Luang in Chiang Mai’s old district. This year the festival takes place June 1st through June 8th. The essence of the Inthakin Festival revolves around a ceremony called Tam Boon Khan Dok – the way of merit-making by offering flowers, candles, and incense in the twenty eight bowls in front of the temple. Each evening, monks chant prayers and sprinkle ceremonial water, and present blessings. Performances …
Teaching English in Thailand
“Students please stand up!” I hear myself commanding in this classroom full of tiny people with big eyes. As I say this I am using both arms in a sweeping motion to help communicate with those who don’t understand the verbal direction. The students (now my students!) are uniformly dressed in light blue shirts and dark blue shorts or skirts. They have all taken off their shoes, which are neatly lined up outside the door of the classroom. There is a delayed clatter of the chairs pushing back as first a few, then slowly every student in the room stands up, looking at me with a mixture of fear and …
You’re Never Alone while Teaching in Thailand
There are a large number of foreigners teaching English in Thailand at any time, and these form a vital network of support. That is, in addition to the assistance provided by your tutors, for those of you on your first foray into this worthwhile occupation. Available on the various media platforms, Facebook, Twitter, Meetup and so forth, there are a number of worthwhile groups such as: Foreign Teachers in Thailand Teachers in Thailand Chiang Mai English Teachers Bangkok Expat Teachers Among many others, these groups are on hand to offer guidance and advice, and experienced English teachers will no doubt take you under their wing when you arrive at your …
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