Incredibly Helpful Staff Provides an Excellent Experience

The XploreAsia team is excellent. In addition to being highly knowledgeable, they run a top notch program, and provide the support needed to ensure a smooth transition into living in Thailand.

I completed the program without taking the TESOL course, so I did a one-week program in Hua Hin prior to my placement in Eastern Thailand. Because the staff is well organized and efficient, I was able to absorb a ton of helpful information during that first week that helps me every day in Thailand. In addition to taking some Thai language classes, the instructors provided useful background on Thai culture and politics, and were available to answer any additional questions any student had. The orientation week offered several great field trips, including visits to a Buddhist temple, elephant sanctuary, dog rescue, night market, and Muy Thai lessons, among others.

Because I had obtained a TEFL certificate on my own prior to arriving in Thailand, I didn't stay for the full-month course but a week was enough time to learn what I needed to know in order to set myself up for success in Thailand. However, it was enough time to make several great friends that I've kept in touch with, traveled with, and will travel with in the future and on holiday. Moving to SE Asia from America is challenging for a number of reasons, and XploreAsia helped me realize what I would need to do in order to make the most of my time here.

I could not be more glad that I chose to do this. I've now been teaching for two months and while it's challenging at times, it's also deeply meaningful in a way that my career in America was not, and I'm grateful for that opportunity. The students are so endearing and wonderful, and this really helps when I miss my family and friends at home. I am also VERY GLAD I CHOSE TO WORK WITH XPLOREASIA. I cannot stress enough how important and helpful it is to have a cultural liaison to help with things like setting up a bank account, getting a Thai SIM card and setting up your phone, etc. These things would be a nightmare for a non-Thai speaking foreigner to attempt alone and because of XploreAsia and their excellent staff I've been able to enjoy my time in Thailand rather than spend it needlessly frustrated, as I surely would have done if I opted to come here on my own!

I highly recommend the program.