Living in Thailand

Thai culture | What to bring to Thailand | Useful Links

A constitutional monarchy once referred to as the Kingdom of Siam, Thailand has joined the modern world while still maintaining the charms of its unique and vibrant culture. Nestled in the breadbasket of Asia, Thailand's fertile mountains and valleys stretch from the apex of the Golden Triangle near Myanmar and Laos, east to Cambodia and south to Malaysia. Bangkok, called the City of Angels, is full of lively entertainment, dining and shopping, with many activities ranging in cost from a few US dollars to three star- Michelin chefs at fabulous rooftop restaurants.

To escape the bustle of the city, many Bangkokians venture to Lumpini Park, take a boat ride along the Chao Praya, or relax poolside while basking in the sun. Make the most of close proximity to national parks, Unesco World Heritage sites, ancient ruins, tropical beaches and various outdoor activities such as rock climbing, hill tribe trekking, scuba diving and snorkeling.

As one of the Asian economic cities, Thailand has enjoyed an economic boom which has enabled the country to modernize transportation, sanitation, healthcare, education, accommodation while the cost of living remains exceptionally low. The average person can live in Thailand for a fraction of the cost of life in most western countries.

Thai Culture

A nation deeply respectful of the royal family, paying tribute to the king is done daily at 8 am and again at 6 pm. When the national anthem is played, all movement ceases, and life stands still until the anthem is over. Criticism, inappropriate comments or off color remarks of the royal family is not appreciated, and must be avoided.
As opposed to the western handshake, Thais wai , a traditional gesture almost prayer like which is exchanged liberally between Thais and foreigners alike. Thais also precede each other's names with Khun, a title indicating respect for the person with which you are speaking.

The head is the holiest part of the body in Thailand, and touching a Thai's head is a serious faux pas. Logically enough, the feet are regarded as the lowest and dirtiest pat of the body, and placing your feet on a coffee table, pointing at someone or something with your toes or wearing shoes in the home is strictly forbidden.

Adhering to these simple points will enable foreigners heightened respect in the eyes of Thais.

What to Bring to Thailand

Western groceries, pharmaceuticals, health and beauty products, electronics, print media and books, CDs, DVDs, musical instruments, art supplies and nearly anything required to make your stay in Thailand comfortable can be found in this world class city.

As shopping in Thailand is incredibly inexpensive, purchasing clothing here is quite economically viable. However, if you are larger or taller than the average Asian, you may want to consider a personal tailor or bringing your professional attire from home. As Thailand is a popular tourist destination, almost any brand, style and level of luxury can be found at one of the many shopping centers or markets.

Useful Links

Bangkok Post:
http://www.bangkokpost.net/

The Nation:
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/

Apartment Finder:
http://en.9apartment.com/

Bangkok Post Newspaper
www.Bangkokpost.net

www.nationmultimedia.com

US Embassy in Bangkok: http://bangkok.usembassy.gov/

Canadian Embassy in Bangkok: http://geo.international.gc.ca/

New Zealand Embassy in Bangkok : www.nzembassy.com/

Australian Embassy in Bangkok: www.austembassy.or.th/

British Embassy in Bangkok: www.britishembassy.gov.uk/thailand

Available Positions

05 March 2008

Closing date: April 25th

We have three programs with various openings, ranging from kindergarten to high school, for teachers to deliver US or UK based curricula for students studying language arts, math, science, ICT, and English as a Second Language.
We are an educational organization which provides primary and secondary academic programs to private and government schools in the Bangkok area, Hua Hin and the Phang-Na province of Thailand.

This is an exciting time to join BFITS, with opportunities for professional development, training and certification, as well as gaining skills which will benefit our teachers well beyond the classroom.

BFITS is accepting applications for the 2008 -2009 school year, which commences in May. Recent graduates who are serious about a professional commitment must be able to relocate to Bangkok by April 25th, 2008. We provide airport pick up, assistance in finding accommodation, and full professional and social support for our new hires to transition to living in the City of Angels.

Apply online now