Best places to teach English in Thailand

Are you an aspiring English teacher looking for the perfect destination to kick-start your career? Look no further! Thailand, known as the Land of Smiles, is an excellent choice for those seeking to teach English abroad. This article seeks to explore the best places to teach English in Thailand, focusing on cities where you can live well, enjoy the rich culture, and make a meaningful impact in the lives of your students.

Thailand’s top locations for teaching English

Bangkok

Pros: vibrant city life with endless entertainment options, such as shopping malls, restaurants, and nightlife. Excellent public transportation, making it easy to navigate the city

Cons: heavy traffic congestion and air pollution, higher cost of living compared to other cities in Thailand

Bangkok, the bustling capital city of Thailand, is undoubtedly one of the top destinations for English teachers. With a plethora of job opportunities in both private and public schools, you will never run out of options. Moreover, the city’s attractions, such as the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and Chatuchak Weekend Market, will keep you entertained during your downtime. Despite being a busy city, Bangkok offers an affordable cost of living, making it an ideal location for teachers to settle in and enjoy the city’s amenities.

Chiang Mai

Pros: lower cost of living compared to Bangkok, proximity to beautiful natural attractions, such as national parks and mountainous regions

Cons: the slower pace of life may not be suitable for those seeking a more energetic environment, air quality can be an issue during the annual burning season

Nestled in the lush mountains of Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is another excellent place for teaching English. The city is known for its laid-back atmosphere, cooler climate, and rich history. Chiang Mai boasts numerous ancient temples, such as Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and Wat Chedi Luang, which provide a fascinating glimpse into the country’s cultural heritage. The city’s vibrant night markets, such as the famous Sunday Walking Street and Warorot Market, offer excellent shopping and dining experiences. Chiang Mai’s ex-pat community is ever-growing, resulting in high demand for English teachers in language schools and international institutions. The lower cost of living compared to Bangkok makes Chiang Mai a popular choice for teachers seeking a more relaxed lifestyle.

Phuket

Pros: stunning beaches and picturesque landscapes, a wide range of leisure and entertainment options, including water sports, nightlife, and shopping

Cons: the island’s popularity as a tourist destination may lead to crowded beaches and attractions, and limited public transportation options, cost of living higher because of tourism

If you are a beach lover seeking the perfect balance between work and leisure, Phuket might be the ideal destination for you. As Thailand’s largest island, Phuket offers many picturesque beaches, such as Patong, Kata, and Karon. The island is also home to various international schools and language centers, providing ample opportunities for English teachers. Aside from the stunning beaches, Phuket’s Old Town, with its colorful Sino-Portuguese architecture, and the iconic Big Buddha statue, are must-visit attractions. Although the cost of living can be slightly higher than in other cities, the island’s beauty and charm make it worthwhile.

Hua Hin

Pros: close to Bangkok, making it convenient for weekend trips or visits, lower cost of living compared to Bangkok and Phuket

Cons: fewer entertainment and nightlife options compared to larger cities, and job opportunities may be more competitive due to its smaller size

Located just a few hours south of Bangkok, Hua Hin is a growing coastal city with a welcoming atmosphere for ex-pats and English teachers alike. Known for its beautiful beaches, such as Hua Hin Beach and Khao Takiab, the city offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Moreover, the vibrant night markets, such as Cicada Market and Hua Hin Night Market, are perfect spots to indulge in local cuisine and shop for souvenirs. Teaching opportunities can be found in private language schools and public institutions, catering to the local and ex-pat communities. Hua Hin’s proximity to Bangkok and relatively low cost of living make it an attractive option for teachers seeking a more tranquil lifestyle.

Chonburi

Pros: access to beautiful beaches and nearby islands, nearby Pattaya, offering a range of entertainment and leisure options

Cons: not a lot of activities going on in the city, smaller expat community compared to other cities

Chonburi, situated along the eastern coast of Thailand, is another excellent location for English teachers. The city is home to various international schools and language centers, ensuring ample job opportunities. One of Chonburi’s main attractions is Pattaya, a vibrant beach resort city known for its lively nightlife, water sports, and entertainment options. Additionally, Chonburi offers quick access to beautiful islands, such as Koh Si Chang and Koh Larn, perfect for weekend getaways. With a lower cost of living compared to Bangkok, Chonburi is an ideal destination for teachers looking to experience Thailand’s coastal beauty without compromising on job prospects.

In conclusion, the best places to teach English in Thailand offer a diverse range of experiences, catering to different preferences and lifestyles. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant city life of Bangkok, the cultural richness of Chiang Mai, the stunning beaches of Phuket, the laid-back atmosphere of Hua Hin, or the coastal charm of Chonburi, Thailand has something for everyone. So pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable teaching adventure in the Land of Smiles!

If you are still considering about starting a career here in Thailand, why not first visit Thailand and feel it for yourself? To help with your visit to Thailand, check out our guide on the best markets in Bangkok.