Thailand is well known for its stunning beaches, incredible food, and magical people. Millions of tourists from across the world visit its golden shores each year for a cheap holiday in the sun.

But why is such a special country not as popular as others in the region when it comes to TEFL teaching?

The answer may lie in the relatively low salaries it offers. At least in comparison to some of its neighbors, such as China and even Vietnam. But there are a few reasons that I want to share with you today – as to why the income of a foreign teacher in Thailand (roughly between £750 and £800 a month) should not put you off considering it as the next stop on your worldwide adventure.

Relatively speaking, the salary of a foreign teacher in Thailand is fantastic. It’s far more than most Thai people throughout the country receive each month, and is often higher than what most local teachers get. This is despite the fact that their workload is always far greater than that of a foreign teacher. A Thai worker on minimum wage can expect to earn less than £8 a day, and the average monthly salary across the country is south of £350. This means that most things in Thailand are significantly cheaper than they would be in countries such as the UK, to accommodate the lower wages in the country.

A dish of incredibly delicious local food, such as pad krapow or boat noodles, will set you back less than £1.50. It’s your round, don’t worry, a few beers at £2 each won’t hurt too much. Renting a room or sharing a house is unlikely to burn past the £100 mark each month. Enjoy a six hour journey in an air conditioned coach, with dinner included, for less than £8. And you can only expect to fork out around £50 for all your other expenses, such as bills and a phone contract. Have I made my point yet? It’s cheap.

Providing you live like a local, and avoid ordering expensive Western food or drinking too much imported foreign beer, then saving half of your salary each month is completely doable. Let me do the maths for you – you could easily bank £3,000 or more during a one year contract.

The key here though – is to do as the locals do, eat what they eat, and drink where they drink. But always spend as they spend. And take my word for it, Thais know how to enjoy themselves without breaking the bank.

I personally think that this is one of the most special parts of teaching and living in Thailand. I was lucky enough to call it home for a year, so am speaking from experience. Away from the tourist areas, and busy commercial center of Bangkok, you are offered a unique experience into a way of life that is completely different to anything else you will have experienced before. From the funny, kind, and grateful students – to the warm, welcoming, and interesting locals. Experience Buddhism. Attempt to understand the complicated relationship Thai people have with their monarchy. Feast on some of the BEST food in the world. Plus so much more. I’m barely scratching the surface.

Thailand is a truly special place. Although it may not be a well-kept secret when it comes to tourism – TEFL teachers often choose the bright lights of China or further afield, and only spend their holidays on a sunny Thai beach. But doing this denies you the chance to really embrace the enigmatic, alluring, and captivating culture in the ‘Land of Smiles’.

Only through real time, not a holiday, can you start to understand and appreciate this wonderful country. With it’s breathtaking scenery, illustrious history, dazzling weather, marvelous people, and exquisite cuisine.

But don’t take my word for it – see for yourself. And now you know that a foreign teacher’s salary in Thailand is more than enough to live a great quality of life, whilst saving for whatever adventure may be next, it’s your call.