Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Thailand
Thailand
C ou n try Gu i d e
1
Education
Copyright © 2017 BridgeGroup
Education Group Inc.
| Thailand
Culture
Thailand’s abundance of elaborately detailed, flower-strewn temples (called wats in Thai) reflects the country’s devo-
tion to Theravada Buddhist tradition and values. This Buddhist influence can be seen and felt throughout the entire
country in sacred mountain retreats, colorful street festivals, dashboard shrines and of course, the ever-present waft
of incense. Thai people, too, are notoriously warm and open in this “land of smiles,” and they place a strong empha-
sis on the qualities of hospitality and generosity. Like other Asian cultures that have influenced Thailand, such as India,
China and Cambodia, elders are held in high regard here and the social strata, for better or worse, is well defined.
Thai food is a cultural experience of its own. Magically combining rice or noodles with the flavors of a few fresh ingre-
dients like lemongrass, chilies, seafood and lime, meals in Thailand are inexpensive and satisfying. Eat most meals
with a fork and spoon, and order your food with intent to share, as is the tradition when dining with family or friends.
In Thailand’s northern province, the greener, calmer capital of Chiang Mai is nine hours and a world away from
Bangkok’s clogged streets. Popular with tourists and expats, Chiang Mai rivals Bangkok with over 300 temples
within its moated perimeter. Outside the city, nature beckons trekkers who are drawn to not only to the natural
beauty of Doi Suthep Mountain (“the lungs of Chiang Mai”), but to its fabled mysticism as well. From Chiang Mai,
the Mae Hong Son Loop is a great way for adventurers to see the surrounding countryside. It is a four-day hike
through the scenic northern Mai Hong Son province.
When it comes to nature, however, Thailand is known perhaps most of all for the beaches of its southern shores.
Those who saw the movie The Beach might recognize the paradise of Ko Phi Phi, which has seen a rise in de-
velopment since its “discovery.” Pattaya, Phuket and Ko Samui are some of Thailand’s best known white sand
shores, with rich, green mountain peaks rising from clear, turquoise waters.
Currency/Cost of Living
The currency in Thailand is called the Baht (THB).
For the most up-to-the-minute conversion rate to your
country’s currency, click here: currency converter.
Typical Students
In Bangkok, most teachers teach children, either at private institutes or public schools. Opportunities exist to teach
adult professionals as well, though less commonly.
Factors that affect salary include the job’s location (salaries are higher
in Bangkok- but also cost of living), the teacher’s qualifications and
experience, and whether or not the job includes housing as part of the
contract.
Typical Benefits
Schools in Thailand will usually assist teachers with the visa process
and will help them find appropriate housing. Some employers will pay
the cost of teachers’ housing, but this varies from school to school.
Teaching Hours
A typical teaching schedule at a language institute includes a flexible
schedule that can accommodate those taking English classes before
or after school or work. Expect to work 25-35 hours per week, with
some mornings and many afternoons and evenings. Teachers in public
or private K-12 schools can expect a full-time schedule, such as would
be worked in their home country.
Contract Length
Employers prefer hiring teachers for one-year contracts, though it’s also
possible to find six-month contracts in many cases.
Preferred Hiring
Requirements
A bachelor’s degree is required in order to be eligible for the work visa
in Thailand, and employers also seek teachers with a TEFL certificate
of at least 100 hours. Teachers in Thailand now have to present a clean
criminal background check as well. Women are generally preferred over
men for teaching positions that involve children.
Interview Tips
For job interviews, which will likely take place via Skype, dress conser-
vatively in very professional clothes. Keep in mind that while an outgo-
ing personality is a quality sought in foreign teachers, projecting calm
and confidence should be your goal when interviewing. Avoid too much
gesturing or any loud expressions, as this type of behavior is considered
impolite. Also, don’t be put off if the director asks personal questions
If you are in Thailand, the same interview tips apply, but also be sure
you bring your resume (with a current photo of you on it) and your
passport.
Recommended Courses
For most TEFL jobs in Thailand an online certificate of 120 hours will
meet TEFL requirements.
One more option, for those who prefer a supportive program that
includes TEFL certification, a pre-arranged job in Thailand, orientation
with other participants, housing, and other benefits, is the Bridge
Teach in Thailand Internship Program. This is an attractive option
for prospective teachers who may be nervous about the prospect of
finding a job in Thailand on their own.
If you have additional questions about teaching in Brazil and would like to speak to an advisor, call 1-800-437-0413.
You can also visit our TEFL Resource Page for other helpful information about teaching abroad or to message an
advisor online.
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registered trademarks of Bridge Education Group, Inc. in the United States. All other trademarks
held by their respective owners. This brochure, or any portion thereof, may not be reproduced
without the express written permission of Bridge Education Group, Inc.