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Showing posts from February, 2018

Wat Doi Dhamma Chedi in Sakon Nakhon, Thailand

          Wat Doi Dhamma Chedi Temple           Today I hiked in the beautiful, rocky hillside around Wat Doi Dhamma Chedi, which is close to the town of Koksri Suphan in Sakon Nakhon province in northern Thailand. It was very peaceful, the only sounds were the rustling of leaves, the occasional bird chirping, water drops falling from a water wheel and the far-off sweeping of the monk's brooms. Thai pastoral scene on the way to the temple. A Buddhist shrine. Near the entrance to the temple sanctuary. Gorgeous red flower. Lovely roots embracing a rock outcrop. Walking through the forest we saw some amazing butterflies, which were a drab brownish-grey on the outside of the wings; but, once they opened their wings up, they were a royal purple. Unfortunately they were too fast to photograph, but it was incredible nonetheless! Wat Doi Dhamma Chedi Pagoda at an angle. Stunning blooms! A magical stone pathway through the forest.

Pros and Cons of Teaching in Thailand

Here you'll find a list of some of the pros and cons to working in Thailand. Granted, this is somewhat subjective, since it's based on my opinion and experience, so take it with a grain of salt! Pros / Positives nice students nice teachers Thai people are very friendly, generous and kind teaching is a great life experience relatively easy teaching schedule very relaxed lifestyle the society is very accepting of LGBTQ people the company helps you with the Visa process (with MediaKids; however, beware of hidden fees) after the first year you get a raise that will allow you to comfortably save up some money (with MK) accommodation is provided (with MK; however, there are additional set-up costs) renewal bonus (with MK) October off work (this is the break between Semester 1 and 2) two and a half months off from March to mid-May (this is the break between Semester 2 and the next school year) one week of no classes twice a year when the Thai students take their exa

Should I Teach in Thailand?

        A BRIEF INTRODUCTION           Today's post will deal with the biggest problem I've encountered teaching here in Thailand: disorganized and unprofessional working conditions caused by a lack of communication.           While my overall experience has been positive ( The Trials and Tribulations of Teaching in Thailand ), I would be remiss if I didn't mention the biggest downside. Communication at my school has improved drastically these past two semesters compared to my first semester, when unexpected 'surprises' occurred seemingly every week. However, recently there have once again been a number of unexpected and stressful events sprung on me at the last minute.            Although I see many benefits to the 'mai pben rai' lifestyle ( Thaikuna Matata ), I must admit that sometimes I can be pretty high-strung. In my personal life, I have more of a devil-may-care attitude. However, as a teacher, I'm a perfectionist and very goal-