Sep 21, 2017 Featured, Journal, Travel Post a Comment

5 Notorious Instagram Girl Poses Explained

Navigating the world of Instagram is a daunting task, let alone trying to figure out what the heck us ladies are doing in our photos! Before I started taking lots of travel pictures I would just be BAFFLED at these travel Instagram accounts!

Like WHY AM I ONLY SEEING THE BACK OF YOUR HEAD?! Or why are you wearing a dress and a hat on the top of a mountain, I KNOW you had to hike up to that!!

I remember thinking ‘this is dumb’, BUT little did I know these gals had it figured out. These are the essentials to making beautiful wanderlust-y photos.

Here I want to give you the behind the scenes explanation of 5 that I have (sort of) figured out and am totally guilty of!!

 

1. The Walking Away To Nowhere Shot

This is a BIG one in the Instagram world. You will see us Instagrammers aimlessly strolling along a street, or Riviera or some other picture perfect place. Somewhere that yes we probably did walk but WHY are we being photographed doing it. Well let me tell you!

I’ll start with the no BS reasons why I like to take pictures walking away from the camera:

Firstly, facing away from the camera covers up the fact that it’s probably 150 degrees and I’m sweating a lot.

Secondly, it also covers up the fact that I’m definitely wearing no make up and look like a tired traveling goblin.

Thirdly, it disguises that I probably have a stomach ache and I am in pain. Also if I extend one of my slightly chunky-ish legs it makes it look s’long and lean which works for me! It’s like the magic Photoshop for real life.

Now the more *~artsy~* explanation – Basically, this effortless aka totally planned picture, is supposed to beautifully recreate what we are actually doing which is probably walking down a beach or alleyway but with the intent to transport you there as well!

Showing only the back of my head makes it way easier for random Instagram viewers to imagine themselves exploring a new coastline or shopping in a local market. Its silly and kind of annoying but true!!

2. The Hat *also face turned away* Shot

Basically this kind of picture is the same as the one above but just add a hat to it! Why? Because the hat is the face of the back of the head! It adds interest, it covers up a bad hair day and hats are just cute right?!

3. The Dancing Twirl Shot

This is a classic instagram photo, you know that like dress or skirt which has the, as 7-year-old me would say ‘twirl factor’. Why are we spinning? It makes literally no sense and I actually can’t even explain it to you other than its fun! Twirling is fun, and that ‘funness’ is conveyed by the movement of clothing. But yeah I don’t really get this one but I’m totally guilty of it.

4. The Smiling At Literally Nothing Shot

Okay this one is a go to of mine, and may only be applicable to me, but I’ll explain anyway. A lot of people can pose in a shot and look super moody and mysterious by not smiling but your girl ain’t one of them. If I am not smiling I look a bit constipated and my face just looks puffy, overall not cute. SO that’s why I am smiling, and usually I am genuinely happy to be looking at whatever dumb thing I am looking at. ~*~miles of smiles~*~

Exploring back alleyways of Hanoi, also wishing that this orange Vespa was mine 🤗✨🍊

A post shared by Kelsey | Miles Of Smiles (@milesofsmiles._) on

5. The Scenery With You Being Very Tiny In The Frame Shot

This one is a popular one, and is actually a basic rule of thumb for photographers and hobbyists alike. These type of shots are used mostly to show off a view or something in the background and if you put a person in the frame it instantly creates more intrigue along with showing off what is in the background! It also creates a scale so that the HUGE mountain will actually look huge next to a person.

Every person you will ever meet knows something that you don't, learn from them // Bill Nye ✨💛 ☼ Did you know that Malaysia is predominatly Muslim country? While I was in Kuala Lumpur thought it would be fitting to learn a bit more about its religious culture, so I visited this absolutely ~*stunning*~ Mosque. Up until then I had never been to a Mosque before, I wasn't quite sure what to expect! ☼ I went on a short tour of the building and was amazed by the intricate tiling, and impressive architecture but even more so by the people who were there. They were kind, patient, and knowledgeable. We chatted about religion, art and just life! It was an absolutely amazing experience as a whole and totally what travel is all about – educating yourself! ☼ Tell me about a time you learned something completely new whilst traveling, let's share the knowledge! 🤓❤️

A post shared by Kelsey | Miles Of Smiles (@milesofsmiles._) on

 

There ya have it, 5 poses that I am guilty of using explained. I hope that this provides on insight and less eye rolls when scrolling through your Instagram feed. Do you have any others that you see or use often? Let me know what they are and why below!

 

Wondering how I can take all of these photos in different locations? Check out my latest post here which explains how I can travel so much!

 

Keep smiling (at nothing while twirling and walking away)

 

xx Kels

Aug 24, 2017 Featured, Malaysia, Travel Tips Post a Comment

The Ultimate 48 Hour Kuala Lumpur Bucket List

Kuala Lumpur Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur Malaysia

Known for its large international airport, Kuala Lumpur is merely a stopover city for most who are on their way to other destinations. Unfortunately for them, they are missing out on so many awesome things to do and see!!

Kuala Lumpur Malaysia

Since I was only there for two days I in no way could tell you that this is a ‘guide’ to the city! Anyone who says that they have the perfect itinerary for a city after only being there a couple days is lying! Rather they should just be called ‘this is what I did when I visited *insert city name here* and usually they all will tell you the same things. I too am guilty of this, BUT I am making a change now! Sooo here ya have it, after many hours of research I compiled this Kulala Lumpur bucket list of sorts for myself and now I will share it with you!

This is what I did/you could do in Kuala Lumpur with 48 hours:

Learn more about the Muslim faith at Masjid Wilayah:

The majority of Malaysia is Muslim, so why not immerse yourself a little bit more in their religious culture? Masjid Wilayah also known as the Federal Territory Mosque, is only a few minutes outside of downtown Kuala Lumpur and is an architectural wonder, channeling designs from Iran, the tiling and structures are amazing.

Tours are free and start at 10:00 in the morning! The men and women who work there are some of the kindest I have ever met, they are happy to discuss their faith with you along with any other that questions you may have. Non-Muslims are welcome to join the tours, remember that it is a place of worship and you must act accordingly! They will give you proper attire to wear, as you must wear the appropriate clothing.

Kuala Lumpur Malaysia

Immerse yourself in history at the Islamic Arts Museum:

While you are learning more about Islam, take a trip over to the Islamic Arts Museum! I was a bit skeptical at first because I have been to a handful of sub-par museums in SE Asia but this one was first class! It was on par with art museums in Europe that i have visited. The artifacts were documented and explained in English, and categorized beautifully. Entrance to the museum is only 14 RM, (3 USD) and you can spend as long as you’d like! The gift shop – one of my favorite part about museums was amazing as well. Truly top notch!

Kuala Lumpur Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur Malaysia

Go shopping in Chinatown aka Petaling Street:

Petaling street is one of the best night markets that I have been to! The amount of goods for sale was insane. Watches, shoes, glasses, clothes, bags – and it all was really good quality! Well I mean it was all fake but it was that nice kinda fake. Prices weren’t too bad either and you could haggle with the shop owners quite a bit to grab a bargain!

Along with the goods, the food was amazing!! SO many different options and all of it looked delish. I tried some noodles and dumplings which were s’goood along with a winter melon drink that was actually scrumptious despite its coca cola color! All around this area there is no shortage of foods to try, things to buy and photos to take!

Kuala Lumpur Malaysia Kuala Lumpur Malaysia Kuala Lumpur Malaysia

Explore Brickfeilds – Little India:

Because of its primarily Indian population, Brickfeilds has been dubbed ‘Little India’! All around this area you can find Indian cuisine and shops. Loud music blasts from street speakers and hundreds of pigeons fly over head! It really didn’t feel like I was in Malaysia any more! All the shops that line the main thoroughfare are bursting with beautiful fabrics. I bought a beautiful Indian skirt at one shop and later munched on some Pakoras that were made fresh right in front of me! Nom nom nom.  

Kuala Lumpur Malaysia

Marvel at the Thean Thou Temple:

The Thean Thou Temple was legit the most beautiful Chinese temple I think I have ever seen. The weather was gorgeous which helped, but this stunning place should not be missed if you are in KL! The details were astonishing,  and you actually get a pretty cool view of the city from the top!

Kuala Lumpur Malaysia

Get the perfect view of the Petronas Towers:

To witness the amazingness which is the Petronas Towers you can venture downtown to KLCC park to see them from the ground or you could also take a visit to the HeliPad Bar for a stunning view of the city! Since I was doing this for the ‘gram I wanted to perfect photo op (shameless I know, I know). After much discourse between fellow bloggers I was recommended to go to the Traders Hotel! From their top floor pool you can stand on a bench and hang out the window and get this picture. I am ridiculous I know, but hey, it was a great view!

Kuala Lumpur Malaysia

Hike 272 steps at the Batu Caves:

One of the top sites in Kuala Lumpur are the Batu Caves! This Hindu temple is placed on the inside of a massive cave on top of a huge mountain! Needless to say it was awesome! The only way to see it is to climb up the 272 stairs while dodging 300 monkeys and 400 pigeons, if you survive the ascent up, then prepare to be amazed. The second cave is where the real beauty is, hanging vines and trees line the cliff walls while monkeys scamper up them!

Kuala Lumpur Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur Malaysia

Coffee Shop Hop:

Kuala Lumpur is in the beginning stages of a coffeeshop boom, with the level of millennials rising, it can only mean one thing – coffeeshop culture must accommodate our need for hip spaces to drink expensive beverages and eat expensive salads. This is all fine by me though, as there were some beautiful places to stop, recharge and have a delish cup of coffee or tea! My favorites were Merchants Lane Cafe, VCR, and ChoCha Foodstore.  

Kuala Lumpur Malaysia Kuala Lumpur Malaysia Kuala Lumpur Malaysia

Useful Info:

Download Grab App or Uber: There are taxi’s everywhere in the city along with an expansive metro system but I opted to just use the taxi share app Grab. Therefore my destination along with price was prearranged and could not be disputed. I have spent so much time getting lost on trains and time was precious and these apps worked great and were much cheaper than the taxi alternative.

When traveling from the airport, again – I would just opt for a grab or uber! I took the train and once I arrived at the station and took a cab to my hostel it ended up being basically the same price as just getting a car from the airport. Next time I will just do that from the get go and save time!

When going to any of these places, arriving early to avoid the crowds is necessary! The Batu Caves were very quiet when I got there at around 8 AM but shortly after it was swamped with tourists!

Kuala Lumpur Malaysia

 

Don’t forget to Pin it for later!!  48 Hours in Kuala Lumpur

 

 

Aug 09, 2017 Vietnam 5 Comments

10 Hilariously Real Things That Happen When You Move To Vietnam

Moving to a new place is always nerve-racking, you never quite know what to expect or how you will change. In case you are looking to move to Vietnam, here are 10 things that will happen when you do!

1.  You become a street-crossing warrior.

The roads in Asia are unlike any the west have ever seen, from the crazy fast drivers in Thailand to the small alleys and incessant honking of Bali, these streets are cray – but Vietnam puts them all to shame.

The roads here, especially in big cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh are wild. Traffic rules are nonexistent and the onslaught of motorbikes never stops. If you want to cross the street the only trick is to keep moving just as the traffic is. After a while you become invincible and can cross these roads like a pro.

2. You embrace that nap life.

Vietnamese people are an early to bed and early to rise nation. They start their day around 6 AM, and not just wake up at six, I mean they are out and about. All of this early hustle leaves you exhausted by midday, (also it’s really hot) which is why the whole country has a siesta of sorts for a couple of hours.

People will nap anywhere and everywhere, coffee shops, the side of the road, their office, you name it. Due to this complete shutdown of life around noon it’s only appropriate you adopt similar customs. #naplife

 

3. You will up your people watching appreciation entirely.

Vietnamese people take chilling to a new level. Here they slow down, and will just sit on a small stool on the sidewalk taking life in. These small little roadside tea stands are super popular with the locals as a spot to take a smoke break and read the paper or grab a cool drink.

Their love of people watching inevitably rubs off on you, and you notice all the quirks of society from the elderly practicing Tai Chi or daily stretches to the wild amount of things fit on a motorbike – there is never a dull people watching moment.

4. You appreciate the sun more than you ever have in your life.

This is mostly here in Hanoi where I am, because the pollution is so bad that seeing the sun is a true rarity. When you do happen to get a clear day, some direct sunlight and clean air, it’s like you are reborn.

5. Iced tea takes over as preferred day time drink always.

In Vietnam the gold standard day time drink is a cool Tra Da – which means iced tea. There are lots of different varietals but this unsweetened, slightly earthy tea is everywhere and anywhere. You drink it with every meal, all the time, ever and after a while you simply can’t see any other drink to pair with a meal.

 

6. Condensed milk in your coffee becomes the only way to drink it.

Again, with the bev-ys but this is a serious one. I mean it’s coffee we are talking about. Cà phê is a big deal here, and there is no other way to drink it than with some version of condensed milk.

You may perhaps add different things to it like yogurt, egg, or coconut but the tried and true method of getting that caffeine fix is the ol’ Cà phê sữa đá which is strong, black Vietnamese coffee with a smidgen of condensed milk – and let me tell you it’s pure happiness.

7. You will stop wearing makeup and rock that glistening upper lip.

Okay, so this is directed at my other traveling lady babes out there but in Vietnam it’s hot, and I don’t mean just like warm, it’s full on sweaty. So, this inevitably doesn’t make for a makeup conducive environment.

Not to say you won’t throw some concealer on, along with a little mascara but foundation and eye shadows are a thing of the past. If they don’t melt off your face, the everyday monsoon will wash it all straight off. RIP beautiful Mac eye shadow palette.

8. You will start to own this body you have like none other.

It’s no secret that Vietnamese people are pretty small, clothes in shops probably won’t fit you unless you are a very small human as well and this is totally OK. After you are told you are too big for things day in and day out – not to mention if you are a teacher your children will most definitely point this out too – “techa baby?!” Ultimately, you will come to a place of self-love and not give any damns about how others perceive you. Gotta just live your life, shop less and embrace the stares.

9. Your workout struggle will be so real.

Finding a gym that has A/C is a real ordeal here, most gyms have fans but air conditioning is just too dang expensive, hence you will most definitely be working out inside but it will feel like you are outside.

This hot box called the gym will have you questioning all of your life choices. Bugs will fly through the open windows and die in your sweat, and every time you’re there you will be 90% sure that heat stroke is one stifled breath away. It’s all worth it though – wait, is it?

10. Driving in the rain will always be comical (and terrifying).

When it rains it pours, but does life stop? Hell to the no. People have got places to be! Since the majority of Vietnam runs on motorbikes there is quite a stylish and booming business of driving ponchos. Man, the Vietnamese have perfected the poncho like no other country I have seen.

Here, this large plastic tarp is fully equipped with a bit that covers the front of your bike entirely and has little holes for your mirrors and a cut out spot for your headlight. You can even buy them in different patterns and with two hoods so your passenger can be covered as well. These strange things will never not be funny but they are quite useful and make driving in the rain much more comical to distract from all its dangers.

 

And there ya have it – 10 hilariously real things that happen when you move to Vietnam! Anybody have any more things to add to the list? Let me know in the comments!

Keep smiling! 🙂

Kelsey

Jul 27, 2017 Journal 7 Comments

An Open Letter To Those Asking: How Can You Travel So Much?

The neighborhood I lived in, in Thailand

Kelsey how do you travel so much?

A question I’ve heard time and time again from friendly strangers on the internet to my own family. It seems though we are enigmas to the world, expat-y 20 somethings living in a foreign country and traveling to as many places as possible, seems to be a concept that is difficult for many to grasp.

It would be easy to assume, that I am simply on one big holiday, a long vacation of beaches, and the wanderlusty adventures that fill your Facebook feed. In reality,  I,  like so many others are travelers (not the douche-y type), we are not on a trip, we are living our life just in another place.

I’ve been wanting to write this for some time, the countless ‘how is this possible?’ or ‘how do you travel?‘ questions I get are starting to pile up. I want to shed some light on my current situation as it is different from so many others who plaster travel photos on social media.

I know most people who see my Instagram or perhaps read my blog must wonder how does she do this?!

One may default to thinking ‘oh she is probably loaded – she probably has money.’ Well I hate to break it to ya, but my savings account barely breaks three digits and the funds have been dwindling for some time so lets just dispel that idea quick!

The second thing people might think is the ol’ maybe she gets money from her blog, or social media sponsorship’s, since that is a thing now. Womp, again this couldn’t be farther from the truth! I have never had a sponsored trip anywhere let alone gear, clothing or treats – although if anyone is offering… hehe.  On a good day my blog may be seen by 100-ish of you, but I’m still convinced its just my mom (hi mom).

You’re probably thinking then, Kelsey what the heck! How have you filled up your passport, lived in two countries and are visiting more all the time. The answer: I have a job! *gasps from the audience* I know it doesn’t seem like it but I am in fact working.

I have been working full time since I moved away from home two years ago. I have taught English in schools and centers in Thailand and Vietnam. This is my main source of income! All travels have been worked around a full time schedule.

Okay okay I can hear you rolling your eyes, thinking ‘sure you have a job – but its not a real job, you don’t work that hard. You drink coconuts on beaches and take pictures.’ And yes this is true, but also, I do work hard, the two things are not mutually exclusive, but I am not here to convince you of that.

Teaching in Asia is HUGE, the amount of people doing this same thing is incredible. There are communities of teachers, expats, and travelers in tons of countries. The amount that you are paid in SE Asia ranges from around 800 – 2,000 USD a month depending on a number of factors! This is way more than enough to live simply and travel lots and lots.

Here in Vietnam I work evenings and weekends but I get two days off and teachers are allotted a month of holiday – hellooo have you packed your bags yet?! The advantages of living in one place and making lots of mini trips is invaluable.

I, along with my boyfriend are able to take small amounts of vacation off at a time in order for us to explore more and more of Vietnam and the surrounding areas. Flights are cheap, countries are close together and all this makes for one hell of an adventure.

As for my Instagram account and blog, I am not a professional photographer, I don’t have tens of thousands of followers (yet – fingers crossed for one day), I’m not paying for likes or followers, hell I didn’t even have a DLSR camera up until a few months ago when my dad gifted me his 11 year old Canon, which due to his meticulous ownership works amazingly! I just want to take beautiful pictures and hopefully you like em’… and me… and this blog #loveme

I simply want to break down the social media veil, the wall of rose colored glass that separates too many of us. What I am doing is far from glamorous – more posts to come on that (i.e. sickness, bug bites, motorbikes, squatty potties, sweat, bug bites, sun burns, bug bites – you get the picture) but it is satisfying, and truly something that you can do to! (not to sound like a motivational speaker but — really!)

For now I am just writing these posts for you, my sweets, whoever is reading! I hope that my stories and tips will help you down the road! One day maybe I’ll make money from this, but for now it’s a creative outlet for me and hopefully a source of inspiration for you!

Keep smiling!

Kelsey

Jul 25, 2017 Featured, Travel Tips, Vietnam 1 Comment

48 Hour Guide To Ninh Binh, Vietnam

Dubbed the terrestrial Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh (pronounced Ning Bing) is truly a magical avatar escape, full of towering limestone mountains, expansive caves and secret river ways. All of this awesome is located only two hours away from Vietnam’s capital of Hanoi. This sleepy little town is full of rice paddies, water buffaloes and some of the most stunning views you’ve ever seen. A trip to Ninh Binh is an absolute must if you are visiting Hanoi!

Getting to Ninh Binh:

 

Getting to this little rural paradise is actually quite easy! From Hanoi there is a train (Ga Hanoi) that departs every day, it takes about two hours, has A/C, chargers for your phone and is only about five US dollars!  When you arrive you can book your ticket back! Easy peasy.

 

What to do:

For being a provincial town there is actually loads of things to do that are packed with adventure and history! Here are my top picks for your weekend escape:

Trang An Boat Tour:

This little boat tour is quite impressive! You will paddle through caves, and float through some of the most breathtaking mountain scenes. For about eight USD you get a around three hours of blissful exploration. You will stop off at a number of different pagodas and temples only accessible by boat! Bring a little snack if you are prone to getting hangry, there are few options for food along the way, and as it did for us – three hours began to feel very long without a snack!

Bich Dong Pagoda:

This pagoda is a great one to visit if you are short on time! There is no hike or boat required. Just bike up to where it is and walk in! It’s striking archway at the front is what draws many visitors along with the pond it sits on, which in the summer explodes in pink lotus flowers!

Mua Caves Hike:

This hike up around 400 stairs will take you to the BEST view of Ninh Binh there is! Photos don’t do it justice, you will have to just experience it for yourself! There also are some caves there but meh – the hike and view take the cake!

Hoa Lu:

This city was once the capital of Vietnam! Around 1,000 years ago there were many different structures but now there are only two. Located only 20 minutes from Ninh Binh visiting this ancient city is well worth the trip!

Other things to do if you have more time would be:

  • Visiting the Va Long Nature Reserve
  • Bai Dinh Pagoda
  • Tam Coc Boat Trip

Apr 22, 2017 Thailand, Travel 2 Comments

5 Thai Islands You Need to Visit

Renowned for its beaches, Thailand boasts some of the best shorelines in South East Asia, but with the rapid influx of tourism its hard to know what islands are in and which are out. If you are looking for beach getaways that are less college party and more, everything else, then here are – in my opinion Thailand’s best islands/ beaches!

*Disclaimer: I have not been to every one of these beaches, although I have been to many. Overall these options are carefully crafted due to my own experiences along with discussions and gathered opinions with travelling friends who have frequented these paradises!

 

http://www.gettingstamped.com/ultimate-guide-koh-lipe-thailand/
Koh Lipe | © Getting Stamped

Koh Lipe:

Often known as the Maldives of South East Asia, Koh Lipe is in the deep south of Thailand. This super romantic island is relatively small and is rather difficult to get to, but the water is crystal clear, blue and sparkling. What more could you want right?! All you need to do now is book that five star resort and find someone to go with! Check out this great guide to Koh Lipe here!

Krabi - Railay Beach

 

Krabi/Koh Lanta:

Krabi along with Koh Lanta are the prefect Ying and Yang of beaches, and often times these are my number one suggestion if you are coming to Thailand and want a mix of majestic postcard worthy spots along with an authentic chilled out vibe. Krabi is on the coast, and is a tourist hot spot, with beaches surrounded by gorgeous towering limestone cliffs covered in lush greenery how could it not be? Pair this with long tail boats lining the coastline and its hard to get a more picturesque place. While Koh Lanta just down the shoreline is rather untouched and offers a much more scenic and relaxed atmosphere! Best of both worlds?

Koh Chang View Point

Koh Chang:

Down the eastern side of the Gulf of Thailand lies Koh Chang, flirting with the boarder of Cambodia this massive utopia is often forgotten about. Thailand’s largest island is also quite a trek to get to but it is so worth the travel. With loads of hippy shops and reggae vibes the nightlife here is unlike any other of the Thai islands. Think of it as Koh Phi Phi’s older, cooler brother, who is also in a band.

Koh Samet - Wai Beach

Koh Samet:

For Thailand being as wacky as it is they did get this right – Koh Samet, the island where ‘Thai’s go to vacation’ is located just three hours from Bangkok making it the closest and cheapest island to travel to if you are anywhere in central Thailand. Why people don’t know about this place is beyond me, but the beaches are gorgeous, the fire shows unparalleled and sunsets top notch!

Ang Thong National Marine Park

Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao:

Rounding out the top five are these three sister islands nestled relatively close to the shoreline midway down the western edge of the Gulf of Thailand. I know, it is kind of cheating including three different islands as one but this trifecta is the perfect getaway! All three of the islands offer different specialties, Koh Samui perfect balance of authentic and luxury, is home to upscale resorts think many, many $$$, but Koh Pangang and Koh Tao are much more backpacker friendly – Phangan notorious for it’s parties and Tao for it’s stunning views. All of these are close to Ang Thong National Marine Park, which is a must and definitely the main attraction.

 

Its hard to go wrong when visiting Thailand, all its beaches are stunning, and regardless where you go there will be something to satisfy every type of traveler – but in my humble opinion definitely go to one of these!!

Pin it for later!  5 Thai Islands You Need To Visit

Apr 15, 2017 Featured, Teaching Abroad, Thailand 5 Comments

Teaching English In Thailand: The Basics

Teaching In Thailand

Teaching In Thailand

So you are entertaining the idea of going abroad to teach huh? Well I am confident it will be the best decision you will ever make – it was for me! Although moving your whole life 5,000 miles away can seem a daunting task, it is really much more simple then people think! Here are the basics to get you moved and working in Thailand!

Teaching In Thailand

Getting Started:

In order to teach English in Thailand you must be a native English speaker from the UK, Ireland, USA, Australia, Canada or South Africa and have a TESOL/TEFL or CELTA certificate. If you are not a native English speaker it is not impossible to get a job, although it does make it much more difficult.

In order to get a job you will need an undergraduate degree in any subject and a teaching certification. There are several different ways you can obtain the required teaching certificates, there are many different courses offered online in which these are awarded at completion or alternatively you could travel to Thailand and complete your TESOL certification in the country. Choosing to get certified at home usually costs less but getting certified in Thailand, although it is more expensive it comes with the benefit of in classroom learning as well as acclimating to the country.

Teaching In Thailand

Looking for jobs:

Once you have decided whether you want to get certified at home or in Thailand you then can start to research company options. Here you have a couple of options as well! You can either search for a job yourself or use a company which can help place you.

If you are searching by yourself consider looking at Ajarn.com or Daves ESL Cafe, these are both great sites at post job opportunities.

If you are arriving in Thailand certified and need help finding a job CIEE is an excellent program that matches up its participants with jobs around the country. If you want to get certified in Thailand XploreAsia offers an awesome month long course which gives you all the information and preparation you need for understanding a Thai classroom. Some other programs that are reputable include: Green Heart Travel, Gap360, and TEFL Heaven.

Teaching In Thailand

What next?

After choosing which company you would like to go through the rest is relatively simple, look up vaccines you need to get, book a flight, and pack your bags! Congratulations you are on your way to Thailand!!

Teaching In Thailand

Fast Facts and Tips:

  • May and October are the best months to start teaching as they are the beginning of each term.
  • There are two different types of schools in Thailand: government and private. Each comes with pros and cons, for example private schools often pay more, where government schools will have more holidays.
  • You will most likely work 30-40 hour weeks, and the average pay is around 800 USD a month.
  • Many schools have MEP (Mini English Programs) or EP (English Program) portions of the school. These are often programs where the student’s parents pay more to have them enrolled. There are usually more than one subject taught in English.
  • Teaching out of an English Program means you will teach many different classes one hour of English every week.
  • Dress codes are very important, make sure that you have proper teaching clothes. For men slacks/nice trousers and a collared shirt are a must, and for Women closed toed shoes and business casual skirts or dresses are required. Make sure that the length of your hem is at or below your knees and your shoulders are to be covered always.