Teach English in Lopburi, Thailand (2024)

Nestled in the heart of Thailand, Lopburi offers a blend of rich history and urban vitality, making it a unique spot for English educators. Known as the 'City of Monkeys,' Lopburi has deep roots dating back to the Khmer Empire and later as an important city in the Ayutthaya Kingdom. Today, this provincial capital buzzes with activity, juxtaposed with centuries-old ruins and temples. For those desiring an authentic Thai experience away from the usual tourist track, Lopburi is an enticing destination.

Reasons to Teach English in Lopburi

Rich Historical Background: As a teacher, you'll not only impart knowledge but also continuously learn. Lopburi's storied past, evident in its historical sites such as the Lopburi ruins and Phra Prang Sam Yot, provides ample learning opportunities.
City of Monkeys: Lopburi is famously inhabited by a large population of monkeys, particularly around the Phra Prang Sam Yot area. This unique aspect adds an element of charm and whimsy to life in the city.
Cultural Immersion: With fewer expatriates compared to cities like Bangkok or Chiang Mai, Lopburi offers a genuine immersion into Thai culture, from local markets to traditional festivals.
Lower Cost of Living: Being a smaller city, Lopburi allows for a more affordable lifestyle compared to Thailand's larger urban areas. This means more savings or spending money for travels and adventures.
Warm Community: The local community is known for its hospitality and friendliness, often going out of their way to make newcomers feel welcome.
Gateway to Exploration: Lopburi's central location makes it a great base for exploring other parts of Thailand. Whether it's a weekend getaway to the mountains of the north or the beaches of the south, its strategic location is a boon.
Opportunity to Make a Difference: Smaller cities often have a higher demand for quality English education. By choosing Lopburi, you're filling a valuable role and making a tangible impact on your students' futures.
Authentic Thai Cuisine: Lopburi offers a plethora of local delicacies and street food, allowing teachers to savor authentic Thai flavors daily.

Understanding Lopburi's Education Landscape

Lopburi, like much of Thailand, recognizes the significance of English as a global lingua franca and has been pushing for improved English proficiency among its young population. The city's schools, both public and private, are keen on hiring qualified English teachers to enhance their curriculum and provide students with better opportunities for the future.

With Thailand's increasing integration into the ASEAN Economic Community, there is a national emphasis on English fluency, leading to numerous teaching opportunities in Lopburi. While many educators aim for positions in larger cities, Lopburi's schools often have smaller class sizes, allowing for a more personalized teaching experience.

In terms of institutions, Lopburi has a mix of public schools, private institutions, and language centers. Teachers may find themselves teaching a variety of age groups, from young learners to adults seeking to improve their business English.

Eligibility and Requirements to Teach English in Lopburi

The requirements to teach English in Lopburi will be similar to the standard requirements for teaching English in Thailand. Still, here are the specific requirements for Lopburi:

A four-year degree in any major (bachelor’s degree or higher).
Language Proficiency: To be a native English speaker (NES) OR a non-native English speaker (NNES) with a TOEIC score of 600 or IELTS score of 5+. This test can be done in Thailand or in your home country.
Background Check: To pass a police background check in your home country.
Health Clearance: To pass a simple health check.
Certifications: A TEFL certificate is preferred, but not required.
Experience: Previous teaching experience is preferred, but not required.
Cultural Interest: You should have a genuine interest in Thailand and Thai culture.

Salary and Benefits for Teaching English in Lopburi

In Lopburi, English teachers can expect a monthly salary ranging from 25,000 to 50,000 Thai Baht, depending on qualifications, experience, and the type of institution. While this may seem lower compared to Western standards, it's important to note that the cost of living in Lopburi is considerably lower than in larger Thai cities or Western countries.

Benefits may include:

Health insurance
Contract completion bonuses
Paid holidays
Visa and work permit assistance
Reduced or free school fees for teachers with children

The opportunity to live comfortably while saving money, combined with the enriching experience of immersing oneself in Thai culture, makes teaching in Lopburi a fulfilling endeavor for many international educators.

Living in Lopburi

Lopburi, located in Central Thailand, is a city with a rich history that spans over a thousand years. While it may not boast the skyscrapers of Bangkok or the beaches of Phuket, Lopburi has its own unique charm that appeals to those looking for a more relaxed, culturally-immersive experience.

Historical Significance

One of the main draws of Lopburi is its ancient ruins, with some structures dating back to the Khmer era. The city was once a significant center during the Ayutthaya Kingdom and retains many historical landmarks from that period. Among its most famous monuments is the Phra Prang Sam Yod, a trio of Khmer-style prangs (towers) that are often humorously referred to as the "Monkey Temple" due to the large population of macaques that inhabit the area.

The Monkey City

Speaking of monkeys, one can't discuss Lopburi without mentioning its most mischievous residents. The city is famously known as the "Monkey City" because of the significant population of macaques that roam its streets, especially around the historical sites. While they can be entertaining, it's crucial to be cautious, as they are known to snatch belongings and food from unsuspecting visitors. Each year, Lopburi hosts a Monkey Buffet Festival, where fruits, vegetables, and other treats are laid out for the city's monkey population, drawing tourists from all over.

Cost of Living

Living in Lopburi is highly affordable compared to Thailand's more touristy regions. You can dine on delicious local dishes at street markets for a fraction of what you'd pay in larger cities. Rent is also more reasonable, with many teachers able to rent comfortable apartments or even small houses without stretching their budgets.

Transportation and Connectivity

Lopburi is well-connected by road and rail. The train station in the heart of the city connects Lopburi to other major destinations, including Bangkok. Songthaews (shared taxi trucks) and motorbike taxis are common means of local transportation, making it easy to navigate the city.

Local Culture and Lifestyle

The pace of life in Lopburi is slower than in metropolitan areas, offering a more relaxed atmosphere. The locals are friendly and, while not everyone might speak fluent English, they're often eager to help or engage in conversation. Traditional markets, serene temples, and quaint cafes dot the city, providing a balance between modern conveniences and historical charm.

Teacher Stories

Jessica from the USA

"When I first mentioned moving to Lopburi to teach English, most of my friends had never even heard of the place. They all expected me to end up in Bangkok or Chiang Mai. But Lopburi, with its laid-back atmosphere and rich history, turned out to be the perfect fit. Of course, adapting to the monkeys took some time, especially after one cheeky macaque made off with my lunch on my second day! But the local teachers and my students were always ready to offer advice, or sometimes even a shared laugh at my 'monkey misadventures'. Teaching here has given me a unique perspective on Thai culture that I wouldn't trade for anything."

Liam from Ireland

"I grew up in a small town in Ireland, so Lopburi's slower pace of life felt right at home. What I love most about teaching here is the genuine enthusiasm my students have for learning. They've introduced me to local festivals, their favorite street food stalls, and even invited me to their homes. I came to Lopburi expecting to teach, but every day feels like I'm learning something new too."

Nandi from South Africa

"Before Lopburi, I taught in a bustling city in Vietnam. While I loved the vibrancy, I wanted my next teaching adventure to be somewhere quieter, with deep cultural roots. Lopburi offered just that. The historical temples are breathtaking, and my weekend trips often involve exploring a new ruin or site. Plus, the cost of living here allows me to save more while still enjoying a comfortable lifestyle."

Madison from Australia

"Teaching in Lopburi has been nothing short of an adventure. From navigating the local markets to mastering the art of avoiding monkey mischief, every day brings its own set of challenges and joys. The smaller class sizes here mean I've formed close bonds with my students, making my teaching experience incredibly rewarding."

Moving Towards Teaching English In Lopburi

Choosing to teach in Lopburi means opting for a unique blend of cultural immersion, historical exploration, and genuine connections. While it may not be as internationally renowned as other Thai destinations, its charm lies in its authenticity. The city's rich tapestry of ancient temples, spirited macaques, and warm-hearted locals offers a backdrop like no other for a teaching journey.

For teachers who are keen to be a part of a close-knit community and make a tangible impact, Lopburi is an excellent choice. As you move towards starting your teaching chapter in Lopburi, be prepared to weave your own story filled with adventures, learnings, and memories to cherish for a lifetime.