At the start of 2024, I was at a point where I knew in my heart that it was time for a significant shift in my life’s journey. With five years of teaching experience, I had a great deal of experience in education, but found myself wanting something new; maybe teach in Thailand, an opportunity to step out of my comfort zone.
Coming from Queens, New York —the most diverse place in the world —I was no stranger to connecting with new cultures. However, I was eager to communicate with a new culture abroad, where I might continue to inspire students. What began as a casual conversation about Southeast Asia, I found myself instantly interested in learning more about it that very same day.
What I found from my research was that there were opportunities to teach in Thailand (among other countries) through teaching agencies. I did more studying on the culture, language, and nuances of Thailand and was immediately sold on the idea of packing up and leaving, what would be, five months later.
How One Conversation Started Me On A New Adventure
On May 14, 2024, I found myself on an airplane from Miami to Thailand with a one-way ticket. Now entering my second year of teaching in Bangkok, I can say with full confidence that this decision has been one of the most rewarding adventures in my life. Teaching in Thailand has reinforced my passion and appreciation for being in the classroom, helping me become my best version, and allowing me to fully immerse myself in a culture dedicated to harmony, respect, and joy.
For those looking to teach English or any subjects in Thailand, I highly recommend immersing yourself in local research and stories, because you’ll find that each experience here is as unique as it is transformative.
The Eclectic Street Food: A Foodie’s Paradise
When I settled into a hotel in Ladprao (or Lat Phrao), I immediately went to explore different street food vendors and ate Thai food for the first time in my life. There is magic in the amazing smells of sizzling meats, spices, and my favorite, garlic, making their way into the air.
The beauty in this is that you can find these vendors on any street and in any district throughout Bangkok. Common foods in Thailand include grilled chicken skewers, pad Thai, and crispy fried chicken, known as Gai Tod. In addition to being convenient, it is world-class, authentic, and always made with love.
In addition to being delicious, it is also extremely affordable compared to a cup of coffee in Miami. This factor greatly contributes to my perpetual quest to explore new flavors on a daily basis. My favorite Thai foods are Gai Tod, grilled chicken skewers, and pad Thai.
For newcomers arriving in Thailand, I highly recommend exploring the street food culture, which everyone agrees is an experience in itself. Moreover, I enjoy Tom Yum Goong, a spicy and sour shrimp soup that features lemongrass, lime leaves, and chili. It is advisable to pay attention to the amount of spice added, as many dishes come with highly spicy flavors.
Khao Pad is another Thai-style fried rice with vegetables, egg, and meat or seafood. Massaman Curry is a rich, mildly spicy curry with potatoes, peanuts, and meat. Moo Ping are grilled marinated pork skewers served with sticky rice. Lastly, I also enjoy mango sticky rice (Khao Niew Mamuang), a sweet treat made with mango, coconut milk, and sticky rice.
The Energy of Sukhumvit: A Hub For Nightlife
After the beautiful sunset, Bangkok transforms into a vibrant and highly energetic night of fun. A district renowned for its international vibe, friendly vendors, rooftop bars, and diverse neighborhood, Sukhumvit is a place where tourists, expatriates, and local Thai citizens blend in with one another. The atmosphere is easygoing and almost electrifying, as a neighborhood that never sleeps.
In Sukhumvit, I usually meet colleagues for dinner, people-watch, listen to live music, or walk the neighborhood, which offers a stark contrast to the classroom environment. It always reminds me of the importance of a good work-life balance after working hard on campus. Teaching in Thailand has shown me that embracing both work and exploration is not only possible but encouraged.
Public Transportation in Bangkok: MRT and BTS Train Systems
One of the best things about living in Bangkok is the ease with which one can get on the Skytrain (BTS) or the subway (MRT), which offer fast, reliable, and clean service. Most neighborhoods and tourist destinations are connected by train systems, allowing people to avoid needing a car.
I use BTS regularly to either get to work or to have fun in Sukhumvit with my friends. The fares are fairly inexpensive, and you don’t have to wait too long for the next train, as they operate frequently throughout the day and most of the night. Coming from living in Miami, where the public transportation was not strong, Bangkok is a breath of fresh air. Not only does it make exploring and commuting simple, but it also makes the experience highly enjoyable.
For teachers in Thailand navigating new cities and school assignments, these public transport systems make daily routines smoother and more enjoyable.
Teaching at VC School: A Highly Prestigious Boys’ School
Another enriching experience that I have the privilege of being a part of is working at Vajiravudh College (VC) as a Science educator. A school that takes education very seriously, causes me to be consistently impressed by the discipline, enthusiasm, and respect that the students show the teachers. I am highly honored to be a faculty member of a school with a strong reputation of being committed to moral and academic development.
I love how the students are enthusiastic about learning as they greet teachers with kindness, curiosity, and admiration. The staff support, sense of community, and curriculum structure are all excellent, making my daily work highly enjoyable. Many teachers in Thailand find this combination of tradition and academic excellence to be one of the most rewarding aspects of their work.
Downtime and Hobbies in Thailand: Fishing and Nature
Although teaching is my primary focus, I have been given the opportunity to engage in hobbies that I bring with me to every city, state, and country I visit. They allow me to reconnect with peace and harmony with the Earth, which includes fishing and just being out in nature.
Just outside of Bangkok, you can find rivers, lakes, and green spaces that offer peace and quiet away from the rat race. Spending time with nature is essential to my mental well-being, sense of peace, and time for reflection, which I had anticipated before coming here.
I am highly grateful and thankful for coming to a country that ceases to amaze me from top (Chiang Mai) to bottom (Koh Samui). Whether you teach English in Thailand or visit for a few months, the natural scenery offers a grounding contrast to city life.
Final Thoughts: A Fulfilling Life in Southeast Asia
Living in Thailand was not just about finding a new job or moving abroad, but about rediscovering my passion for teaching, connecting with a new culture, and learning more about the people around me as I educate in the classroom. This country has offered me a nice blend of professional growth and personal fulfillment.
To other educators considering a move such as this, I highly recommend that you come to connect with people, embrace the unfamiliar aspects of the students, schools, transportation, friendships, and food. You will see that the heart of this country is just as warm as the generous smiles you receive from the students greeting you each day.
So, from New York to New Mexico, and from New Mexico to Miami, Florida, I never thought I would find myself living in Bangkok, Thailand —a new place that I now call home, working with a reputable academic organization, BFITS Thailand, which I consider family.
If you’re ready to teach in Thailand and discover more than just a classroom, take the leap—you might just find your new beginning.
