The Best Places to Teach English in Thailand

Famed as a hot spot for travelers, Thailand also reigns as one of the top stops to teach English abroad. The magnetic capital, Bangkok, is the at the epicenter of the teaching market but for those seeking something more serene, the seductive charm of Chiang Mai and the sun-kissed south await.

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Bangkok

Thailand’s captivating and chaotic capital offers a dizzying array of jobs for prospective English teachers. Kindergartens, public and private schools, language centers and universities all employ both novice and experienced teachers looking to move to the famed ‘Land of Smiles’. Bangkok offers an exceptional standard of living for teachers and parades as Asia’s mecca for nightlife, culture and shopping; not to mention the phenomenal selection of Thai and international food served at world-class restaurants and street-side stalls alike.

Population: 8 million
Best for: Food, nightlife, shopping, and culture

Chiang Mai

China Mai is Thailand’s defacto northern capital and famed for its ancient city walls, surrounding jungle and laid back way of life. The city is peppered with ancient temples that attract travelers from around the world but it’s the traditional villages and abundance of wildlife nestled in the encircling jungles which make teaching English in Chiang Mai a truly unique destination. Salaries are typically lower than Bangkok but the cost of living is significantly less.

Population: 150,000
Best for: Nature, markets, food, and culture

Phuket

Phuket is the perfect place to teach English in Thailand for beach lovers and diving enthusiasts. As the country’s largest island, Phuket has several government and private schools that employ foreign teachers – a rarity on Thailand’s paradise islands. Though famed for the riotous Patong Beach, the island has over 40 beaches where you can bask in the tropical sunshine with a fresh coconut in hand. Island life can be a little more expensive than the mainland but salaries in Phuket reflect this slightly elevated cost of living.

Population: 500,000
Best for: Beaches, nature, wildlife, and waterports

Udon Thani

Isan’s premier city, Udon Thani, is located close to the border with Laos and offers English teachers an authentic Thai experience. Ideally suited to those who prefer a more relaxed approach to life, the primary demand for teachers here is in Thai government schools. The city is surrounded by eco-parks and verdant countryside, perfect for a quick getaway. Cheap flights to the capital and Thailand’s southern beaches take a little over an hour – perfect for a long weekend or to travel during the extended school holidays.

Population: 150,000
Best For: Local life, countryside, and food

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Ayutthaya

The majestic ruins of the former capital draw flocks of visitors to this sleepy town just 60 miles to the north of Bangkok. Teaching English in Ayutthaya is a popular choice for those with a preference for a relaxed way of life but who want to be close to the city and its plethora of seductive bars and world-class restaurants. The city offers plenty of green spaces and the cost of living is significantly cheaper than its larger counterparts.

Population: 50,000
Best For: Proximity to Bangkok, local life, history, and temples