Adapting to Thai culture has broadened my understanding of the world, but it has also presented its own challenges. From managing finances to communicating with colleagues, I’ve learned to adopt a more gentle pace of living and accept that nothing happens instantly. This is a stark contrast to my life in the United Kingdom, a country where everything feels fast-paced and frantic.
I can say with certainty that the unhurried pace has gifted me a calm and more balanced version of myself, allowing me to find peace and seek clarity on the essential things in life. Living and teaching in Thailand has shown me the beauty of slowing down — to breathe, observe, and grow through every small, meaningful experience.
Respecting Thai Culture and Everyday Interactions
The past four weeks have been a journey of learning, patience, and personal growth. I’ve had to adapt to different ways of communicating and showing respect — learning to read non-verbal cues, using polite forms of address, and being sensitive to social hierarchies, all of which are deeply embedded in the harmonious aspect of Thai culture.
Each day now begins with the wai, Thailand’s gesture of greeting and respect; I love how highly valued this simple act is, and how it immediately sets a tone of mutual courtesy. Of course, the language barrier can cause problems, especially when answering the phone to a delivery driver or attending the local food market. Once a week, I attend Thai lessons with my neighbour, a fellow expat who has been living in Thailand for seventeen years. She (very kindly) has offered me free lessons (and food)! And has quickly assumed the position of my linguistic lifeline.
It can be scary putting what I’ve learned into practice; the fear of embarrassment is ever-present. However, the warm smiles and the kindness of the Thai people make the experience far less intimidating, as they are always supportive and encouraging, even when I make mistakes.
Discovering Muay Thai, Thai Food, and Local Traditions
In an attempt to embrace new experiences, I now train in Muay Thai at the local gym. I have always been impressed by a fighter’s technique, but seeing their commitment and discipline firsthand has encouraged me to push myself out of my comfort zone. Additionally, I have been relishing the bold flavours of Thai cuisine. From Massaman curry, to Khao Soi, to the fresh fruit on sale at the local markets, I love it all!
Even my wardrobe has evolved, in the hope that following Thailand’s day-of-the-week colour regime will bring good luck and ward me from negative energy. So far, so good, as I have felt nothing but positivity radiate from my surroundings.
Through these daily habits — food, fitness, and fashion — I’ve found new ways to connect with the Thai community and appreciate the small rituals that make life here so colorful.
Adapting to the Thai Education System and SPIM
Transitioning from teaching mathematics in Scotland to working as a teacher in Thailand has reflected the broader cultural change that I’ve experienced. My school lacks the constant chaos of the UK education system; the environment feels calmer, less demanding, and more appreciative.
Respect and kindness, as core values, are deep-rooted within the culture of my school, and the students proactively adhere to these expectations. Their politeness and cooperation make classroom management attainable, creating space for elevated ingenuity and differentiation. Thailand’s education system promotes the idea that every child can achieve, an ethos that I have also always embraced in my teaching. Success is measured not only by academic achievement, but also by the development of social skills, moral outlooks, and hobbies.
Within the classroom, the language barrier remains a challenge. Maths as a subject is abstract enough without adding an extra layer of confusion. I rely heavily on peer explanations and group work to ensure that students unfamiliar with the language feel supported. By integrating teamwork challenges, presentation opportunities, and creative projects —such as making TikToks, like ‘math raps’—into my lessons, I will continue to encourage and develop students’ conversational skills while also reinforcing their math abilities.
On the subject of TikTok, technology has been another steep learning curve: every student works on an iPad, and lessons routinely integrate online platforms. I have spent many evenings creating interactive resources and experimenting with AI-marking tools to provide faster feedback. With class sizes ranging from 32 to 36, the energy within the classroom remains high, and students need to feel adequately challenged at all times. This process is new, but it has already allowed me to set higher standards for myself. I hope to continue expanding my resourcefulness and creativity as a teacher and lesson planner.
Budgeting Wisely and Living Like a Local
Adjusting to financial changes has taken some time. Only recently have I come to grips with the fact that this experience is not a vacation; it is my new normal way of life, and I have to start spending accordingly. When coming from the United Kingdom, a country where prices are heavily inflated, everything in Thailand seems relatively cheap. However, this has to be balanced against the reality of a lower salary.
Embracing a more Thai lifestyle is key to ensuring that your money stretches, leaving you with plenty to save. Trying to maintain a Western lifestyle — frequently endorsing bars, restaurants, and cafes in central Bangkok — will make it harder to manage your finances. Local food is incredibly affordable, and for those who enjoy expanding their wardrobe, numerous second-hand markets offer unique pieces at affordable prices.
Weekend getaways and day trips are also accessible. The ‘Green Lung’ and Koh Kret are exciting places to visit, located close to my home in Nonthaburi, offering a perfect escape from the city without requiring a long trip. On long weekends and holidays, Pattaya is just a two hour drive away and offers a beach with easy access to Koh Larn for a day trip. Alternatively, Koh Samet — only four hours by bus and boat — provides a less touristy beach experience. Flights to Chiang Mai and Phuket are also cheap, allowing for budget-friendly travel to take place.
Transportation Tips for Teachers in Thailand
Understanding the transport mechanisms between Nonthaburi and Bangkok can be difficult. To navigate both cities efficiently, having access to the BTS (Skytrain) or MRT (Subway) is essential. Purchasing a Rabbit Card — a rechargeable, contactless card for fare payments — not only saves time but can also secure discounts in certain shops and restaurants.
Given the notoriously slow traffic, using Grab or Bolt cars as a primary method of transportation is not advisable. However, if you do need to brave the traffic via the bus, the Via app is a valuable tool to help navigate your journey.
Since I moved to Nonthaburi with my partner, also a BFITS teacher, we had to choose a living location that was convenient for both of our schools. This came with the sacrifice of being outside of the hustle and bustle of Nonthaburi’s city life scene.
To make daily errands easier, we decided to rent a motorbike for a low monthly cost. Initially, this was against my better judgment; however, with regular practice and the safety net of always wearing a helmet, I’ve grown more comfortable with the idea.
Adapting to Thailand’s Climate and Daily Realities
The climate contrast between Thailand and Scotland has resulted in the need for a wardrobe rebrand. Thailand, with its warm and consistently humid climate, is the polar opposite of Scotland, which is cold and often grey. Light and floaty clothing items have become my go-to, and my favourite accessory is now a hand-held cooling fan.
When we first arrived in Nonthaburi, it was the middle of summer and the heat was intense. This weather is perfect for a day by the pool or swimming in the sea, but it was hard for us to navigate our daily tasks and routines under the blazing sun.
Now, it has quickly shifted into the rainy season, and I am left wondering why I ever complained about the summer weather! When it rains in Thailand, it raaaaaaaains. This can undoubtedly impact daily life: deliveries are delayed, roads are flooded, markets shut down, and we are unable to use our motorbike. That being said, it usually passes quickly, and before long, the sun is shining once again.
It is absolutely essential that you have a rain jacket and an umbrella with you at all times during this season, as showers can commence without warning.
Living and teaching in Thailand has taught me that growth comes from adaptation — in culture, in the classroom, and in daily life. Every challenge is a step toward becoming more resilient, grounded, and open to the world.
