ABOUT
Sarah grew up an hour north of Atlanta in a small town. She double majored in Early Childhood and Special Education for her undergrad degree in 2018 and earned her MEd in Curriculum and Instruction in 2022. She has always had a passion for traveling and always wanted to teach abroad.
Moving to bangkok
When and why did you move to Thailand?
I moved to Bangkok in July of 2021. I had a friend from college who was already teaching in Thailand and I had been talking to her about teaching abroad. She sent me the link to apply to her school and I went through the interview process via Zoom.
Do you need to speak Thai well to live in Thailand?
Most Thai people speak English, but they are super appreciative when you are making an effort to speak Thai. I found knowing more Thai helped me the most at the markets or giving directions in a taxi. I used Google Translate if needed. There are tons of tutors in Thailand to teach Thai for a really cheap cost! If you prefer an app, I also had Babble!
What should people consider before deciding to move to Thailand?
They should definitely consider that Thailand is a tropical climate and it gets HOT. They also should be open minded.
What is Thailand famous for?
Thailand is known for the land of smiles, but definitely their food!
How did you get set up?
My school helped me with everything, but it is easy to go into a bank. I highly recommend Kasikorn Bank (K Bank). I used AIS which was $10 a month for unlimited data.
Was it difficult to get medical insurance?
I got medical insurance through my school which was an easy task. I believe most jobs provide that for their employees!
How to find a job in Thailand?
I got my job through my friend, but I highly recommend joining expat pages on Facebook, checking out schools online, and checking out programs such as XploreAsia!
Is life better in Thailand than in the US?
There are definitely pros and cons to both! I think Thailand was easier to navigate because of the transportation and there is a slower pace in life. People are grateful for what they have.
How did you find an apartment?
There are a lot of groups on Facebook where you can find amazing apartments. Rent can be anywhere from $250 and up. I lived in a two bedroom by myself for $300!
Living in Bangkok
What are the main differences between Thai people and Americans?
Thai people are very kind, friendly, and helpful. What I noticed about Eastern culture is the fact that people take care of people and truly come together as a community. The US tends to have more of an individual mindset of taking care of others.
Do you need to speak Thai well to live in Thailand?
Most Thai people speak English, but they are super appreciative when you are making an effort to speak Thai. I found knowing more Thai helped me the most at the markets or giving directions in a taxi. I used Google Translate if needed. There are tons of tutors in Thailand to teach Thai for a really cheap cost! If you prefer an app, I also had Babble!
What are your favorite things to do in Thailand specifically?
Going to the Islands! Thailand has so many islands that are all so beautiful, but have different vibes.
Where are the best beaches?
Railay beach on Krabi is my favorite! I also fell in love with Koh Tao, Koh Lipe. Koh Chang, Koh Yao Yai.
What do you think about BKK?
I love it! It is so easy to get around on transportation and there is SO much to do. There are a lot of people everywhere. The malls are truly incredible!
When’s the best moment to visit?
The cooler months are December-March which are really nice! Rainy season is also over and you are avoiding the hot season so it’s the best of both worlds!
What do you think about Phuket?
I enjoy Phuket because you can hop on a motorbike and explore so many different beaches. There are quiet beaches or party beaches for anyone that is looking for a specific vibe!
Where is the best area to live in Bangkok?
I lived in Thong Lo and Phra Khanong and I loved both. You can find a huge expat community. Another great place to live is in Ari. There are a lot of markets and restaurants. You are also close to the famous market, Chatuchak!
What are some of the underrated places in Thailand?
There is an island that is a 30 minute boat ride from Pattaya (2 hours from BKK) called Koh Larn that has crystal clear blue water! It is such an easy getaway! If you want the mountains, head to Kanchanaburi! There are so many hikes and waterfalls.
How much money do you need to live comfortably in Bangkok?
I lived in a one bedroom, high rise condo for $300 dollars a month! You can live in really nice places for very cheap! My rent cost a tenth of my paycheck!
Do you feel safe as a woman?
Very!!! But it is still important to be cautious. I had a bad experience with a taxi driver and will now only use Grab or Bolt so I can easily report something if needed.
What are your favorite restaurants and bars in your area?
The rooftops are great and I highly recommend going to one, but they are expensive. I hung around Soi 11 with a lot of great bars. Havana is super fun!
Final Thoughts
Can you tell us something else about Thailand that we may not know?
Thailand’s politics are constantly changing, but you should never talk about the King. Never step on money either since it has the King’s face on it.
What are the biggest challenges that Thailand faces today?
This one is hard just because I don’t know enough about it. A lot of girls are involved in Sex Work to make money. Some choose to, but some are also forced into it by answering job offers as dancers and then find out that is not the case. Their passports are taken and they have no escape. I know there are groups trying to help!
Was it easy making friends and meeting people?
It was harder during Covid, but Bumble BFF was super helpful!
Describe your favorite recreational activities in Bangkok.
I loved playing badminton! They really have everything. Rock climbing, gyms, parks.
What has been the hardest part living in Thailand?
Being super far away from family. Plane ticket prices are through the roof right now and it is really hard to be able to get home if an emergency occurs.
What are your plans for the future?
Right now I moved back to the States to be closer to family, but am working on an Ebook on how to teach abroad. I feel like not a lot of people realize they can have such an experience and I want to share so people can live out a dream like I did!
Thank you so much Sarah for sharing your experience teaching in Bangkok, Thailand! I know a lot of people will be interested in reading your book too! All the best for your future projects! Her IG here and her Tiktok: @Sarahseestheworld
