Come teach English in Bangkok, the City of Angels. Bask in the vibrancy and energy you'll only experience in this corner of the world. Bangkok is perfect for those seeking vibrant street life and charming people, and ideal for young university graduates who want to teach English during a gap year. Teach English to young learners at a professionally run language school or a public Thai school. For those with a little experience, there are plenty of highly paid Business English jobs.
A thriving metropolis
Like other Asian metropolises, Bangkok is a blend of East and West. It is no longer the old port town it once was where canals, waterways, and palm-tree-lined streets were its only features. The Buddhist temples and historic sites are still essential stops for anyone teaching English in Bangkok. Whether religious or not, The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew will leave you in awe at their grandeur and intricate detail. Other impressive temples worth seeing include Wat Suthat, the Golden Mount, and Wat Saket.
The best city for foodies
Bangkok is heaven for the food lover. Get an authentic meal — maybe two — for under a dollar. For the most authentic experience, head to Chinatown, where Thai street food originated. Classic flavours like kaffir lime leaves, coconut milk, and lemongrass are everywhere. For some of the best curry and fried-noodle dishes, head to Old Town, where experienced chefs have been cooking up some of the country's best street food for decades.
Thai festivals and spas
Be sure to find yourself in Bangkok in mid-April for Songkran Festival (Thai New Year), held in the well-known tourist area of Banglamphu, where visitors and locals alike "wash away bad luck" to welcome the new year. The water fight that defines the festival is also a much-needed break from the intense heat — one of the most enjoyed festivals in the world.
Another reason people love teaching English in Bangkok is access to affordable self-care. Rely on a good massage at least once per week — massage shops are cheap and can be found almost anywhere. Stop at the side of any street and enjoy, or for something less frenzied with more hands-on care, check out Asia Herb Association.
The TEFL certification Thai schools and the Non-B visa require
Thailand requires a 120-hour TEFL/TESOL plus a bachelor's degree for the Non-B work visa, and Bangkok schools expect both on your CV before they'll interview. OnTESOL's 120-hr course is TESL Canada recognized and ACCET accredited. Targeting Bangkok's lucrative Business English market ($25–$40/hour)? Pair it with the Teaching Business English (TBEC) specialist.
View Business English Course →Join the Bangkok TESOL community
To tap into the local TESOL scene, check out the annual Thai TESOL Conference. Though it isn't always held in Bangkok, Thailand TESOL is a great association and resource for teachers anywhere in the country — publications, training, and a national network worth being part of.