When I moved to Bangkok, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I had been living in Thailand for a few years already, working at Mahidol (MWIT) and PA, but this was my first time living in the heart of the city; and my first time teaching at a private school. NBS (Newton Business School) welcomed me with its bright, modern energy. As an “academic supervisor” (a fancy title for a teacher, you could say), I stepped into the Business School and IELTS classrooms eager but admittedly nervous.
Bangkok is intense. The sheer pace of life here is something you feel immediately. The BTS Skytrain, which I used to avoid whenever I visited Bangkok before, is now part of my daily life. I still find the crowds overwhelming sometimes, especially during rush hour, but there’s something oddly satisfying about zipping through the city above the traffic. The views from the train windows; an endless maze of high-rises, billboards, and tangled streets; are a reminder of just how alive this city is.
I live around Sukhumvit, a neighbourhood that feels like its own little world. On one street, you’ll find glitzy malls and rooftop bars; on the next, there are food stalls selling everything from grilled pork skewers (I don’t eat pork) to papaya salad so spicy it makes your eyes water. The smells, sounds, and colours can be a lot to take in, but they’re also what make Sukhumvit so vibrant. It’s a place that’s constantly moving, yet I’ve found moments of calm there, a quiet coffee shop, a corner of Benjakitti Park, or just the routine of strolling through my neighbourhood on weekends.
Teaching at NBS has been a different kind of adventure. The students are full of personality, and every day brings something new, whether it’s helping them with IELTS essays or diving into discussions about business marketing. They’ve kept me on my toes in the best way, and their enthusiasm reminds me why I love teaching.
Still, adjusting to life in Bangkok hasn’t been all smooth sailing. The city can be overwhelming. There’s so much happening all the time, and finding a balance between work and my personal life has been a challenge. But it’s also been a learning experience. I’ve discovered the importance of carving out routines, whether it’s exploring a new restaurant, catching up with friends, or taking a break from the noise.
One of the best parts of being here has been reconnecting with old friends and making new ones. Bangkok has this way of bringing people together in the most unexpected ways, over street food at midnight, through mutual friends, or even just shared experiences of navigating the craziness of the city. Those moments have made everything feel a little more grounded.
Bangkok is loud, chaotic, and endlessly fascinating. It pushes you out of your comfort zone and makes you adapt in ways you didn’t know you could. For me, it’s been a mix of fun, frustration, and discovery; but more than anything, it’s been worth it.