Wow--this forum really made me think about retiring as an educator in Thailand. You definitely can't live this well on a teacher's salary, not usually anyway, the states. I plan on teaching into my seventies, if I can, so even after "retirement", I would hope to still be finding teaching a...

For me, one of the best ways to get over culture shock is through embracing the culture by showing respect to its people. If you do so, they are more willing to help you to assimilate quicker and to understand ways to interact and interface with the local culture. Try to be open-minded. I also think...

I am totally interested in the markets--we just don't have this type of culture in America, and in Georgia, where I am from, and I want to experiment with new foods, drinks, and aspects of Asian culture which are new to me.

Obviously, knowing the local language is always a plus. I have found that, even as an English teacher born and raised in an English-speaking country, confidence is very important in the classroom, and a lack of understanding and using the local language can really affect your potency as an instructo...

Rossy, Thanks for these tips. I have found that, if one is creative and attentive, that you can find cheap and affordable fun almost anywhere. When I first visited Japan, years ago, to teach "conversation" classes, I was broke and lost, but I quickly learned the train systems, and indulged...

After reading this forum, I am proud to say that I am, in no way at all, a troll. I have always displayed "netiquette", and even if was in my nature to be mean or harassing, I simply do not even think I would have the time to devote to that because I am so busy just worrying about betterin...