Teach English in Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand (2024)

Ubon Ratchathani, fondly referred to as just "Ubon" by locals, sits as the easternmost province of Thailand, right at the heart of the Isaan region. A city steeped in history, culture, and tradition, Ubon is renowned for its breathtaking temples, the annual Candle Festival, and the serene Mekong River that forms a natural boundary between Thailand and Laos. With a unique blend of Thai and Laotian cultures, it stands as a testament to the fusion of traditions, lifestyles, and cuisines. For those educators looking to truly immerse themselves in an authentic Thai experience, Ubon Ratchathani provides an unparalleled opportunity to teach, explore, and grow.

Reasons to Teach English in Ubon Ratchathani

Cultural Immersion: Ubon offers a deep dive into the traditional Isaan culture, giving teachers a chance to witness and participate in age-old customs, festivals, and rituals that are distinct from mainstream Thai practices.
Rich History: The city boasts a plethora of historical sites and ancient temples, offering educators a chance to not just teach English, but also learn about the region's rich past.
Lower Cost of Living: Compared to Thailand's more commercialized cities, Ubon Ratchathani has a considerably lower cost of living, allowing teachers to save more while still enjoying a comfortable lifestyle.
Natural Beauty: The province is home to several national parks, waterfalls, and the majestic Mekong River. It's an ideal location for those who cherish nature and outdoor adventures.
Warm and Welcoming Community: The people of Ubon are known for their hospitality and warmth. As a teacher, you'll find yourself forming strong bonds with both your students and the wider community.
Opportunity to Learn Thai and Lao: Given its proximity to Laos, Ubon is a linguistic melting pot. Teaching here provides a unique opportunity to learn not just Thai, but also pick up bits of the Lao language.
Less Competition: While many ESL teachers flock to popular cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, Ubon Ratchathani remains relatively off the beaten path, meaning less competition for teaching positions and a greater chance to make a meaningful impact in the community.
Genuine Thai Experience: Away from the tourist-heavy areas, Ubon offers a genuine Thai experience, letting teachers live as the locals do and gain a deeper understanding of the country's heart and soul.

Understanding Ubon Ratchathani's Education Landscape

Ubon Ratchathani, with its rich cultural and historical heritage, places great emphasis on education. Schools here range from government-run institutions to private schools and even some international establishments, though the latter is less common than in larger cities like Bangkok. The city's focus is on preserving its unique Isaan identity, and as a result, schools often incorporate regional history, culture, and traditions into their curricula. This provides an enriching experience for both students and teachers.

English is viewed as an essential skill in today's globalized world, and Ubon Ratchathani is no exception to this trend. While the city might not be as commercialized as others, there's a growing demand for English education. Parents understand the importance of their children being proficient in English for future opportunities, both within Thailand and internationally. ESL teachers in Ubon often comment on the eagerness and motivation of their students, which makes the teaching experience all the more rewarding.

Eligibility and Requirements to Teach English in Ubon Ratchathani

The requirements to teach English in Ubon Ratchathani will be similar to the standard requirements for teaching English in Thailand, however, here are the specific requirements for Ubon Ratchathani:

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 Check: To pass a simple health check in Thailand.
TEFL Certification: A TEFL certificate is preferred, but not required.
Experience: While not mandatory, having previous teaching experience can give you an edge in the job market.
Cultural Interest: You should have a genuine interest in Thailand and Thai culture. Being open to learning and integrating into the local way of life is a significant advantage.

Salary and Benefits for Teaching English in Ubon Ratchathani

In Ubon Ratchathani, English teachers can expect to earn a salary ranging from 25,000 to 55,000 Thai Baht per month. The exact amount often depends on the school or institution, your qualifications, and experience.

Benefits can include:

Health insurance
Paid holidays
Work visa assistance
End-of-contract bonuses
Opportunities for professional development

It's worth noting that the cost of living in Ubon Ratchathani is relatively lower than in larger Thai cities. This means that while the salary might seem modest compared to Western standards, it allows for a comfortable lifestyle in the local context, with potential for savings.

Living in Ubon Ratchathani

Ubon Ratchathani, often referred to simply as "Ubon," is one of the four major cities of the Isaan region in Thailand. With a rich history that dates back centuries, Ubon offers a blend of traditional Thai culture and modern conveniences. For teachers and expatriates considering a move here, the city promises a unique living experience that's distinctly different from Thailand's tourist-heavy areas.

Geographical Insights:
Ubon Ratchathani is situated in the northeastern part of Thailand, sharing its borders with Laos and Cambodia. The Mun River gracefully flows through the city, adding a touch of scenic beauty.

Cultural and Historical Significance:
The city is renowned for its temples (or 'wats') with Wat Phra That Nong Bua being a notable standout, featuring a blend of Thai and Indian architectural styles. The annual Candle Festival, which marks the beginning of the Buddhist Lent, is a major event and showcases intricate wax sculptures and vibrant processions.

Cost of Living:
One of the primary advantages of living in Ubon Ratchathani is the affordable cost of living. Dining out, accommodation, and transportation are all noticeably cheaper than in places like Bangkok or Chiang Mai. For instance, a local meal might cost as little as 40-60 Thai Baht.

Local Cuisine:
Isaan food is famous throughout Thailand, and Ubon is no exception. Here, you can indulge in dishes like 'Som Tam' (spicy papaya salad), 'Laab' (spicy meat salad), and 'Kai Yang' (grilled chicken), usually complemented with sticky rice.

Modern Amenities:
Despite its traditional aura, Ubon isn't devoid of modern conveniences. There are shopping malls, cinemas, international restaurants, and even coffee chains. The Central Plaza is a popular spot for both shopping and entertainment.

Natural Beauty:
Beyond the city's borders, Ubon Ratchathani province is home to several national parks. Pha Taem National Park is particularly renowned for its prehistoric cliff paintings, stunning viewpoints, and unique rock formations.

Connectivity:
Ubon Ratchathani Airport connects the city with other major Thai destinations. The road network is also efficient, with buses being a primary mode of inter-city travel.

Expat Community:
While Ubon isn't as expat-heavy as some other Thai cities, there's still a tight-knit foreigner community. This can be especially helpful for new teachers seeking advice or social connections.

Teacher Stories

1. Sarah from the USA:

"When I first landed in Ubon Ratchathani, it felt worlds away from the hustle and bustle of New York City. The tranquility was initially a culture shock. However, the warmth of the students and fellow teachers made the transition smooth. My weekends are now spent exploring the local markets and temples or occasionally visiting the national parks. Teaching in Ubon has given me the opportunity to immerse myself in Thai culture, something I'll cherish forever."

2. Liam from the UK:

"Back in London, I used to hear about Bangkok and Chiang Mai from friends who taught in Thailand. Ubon Ratchathani was an uncharted territory for me. The smaller classes here allowed me to connect deeply with each student. And guess what? I've picked up a fair bit of the Isaan dialect, thanks to my students and local friends!"

3. Tumi from South Africa:

"Coming from Johannesburg, I was intrigued by the rich history of Ubon Ratchathani. The annual Candle Festival was an absolute delight to witness. Teaching here has been rewarding in more ways than one. The students' eagerness to learn and the community's receptiveness to foreigners have made my journey memorable."

4. Grace from Australia:

"Being a nature enthusiast, Ubon's natural landscapes, especially the Pha Taem National Park, drew me in. As for teaching, the school's modern facilities combined with traditional teaching methods provided a unique experience. The bond I've formed with my students and the memories we've created during our English camps in the countryside are irreplaceable."

5. Eoin from Ireland:

"My decision to teach in Ubon Ratchathani was partly driven by my desire to experience a less touristy part of Thailand. The authenticity of Ubon, both in its culture and people, has been heartwarming. Every day in the classroom is a new adventure, and the stories and laughter shared have made my time here invaluable."

Moving Towards Teaching English In Ubon Ratchathani

Ubon Ratchathani, with its blend of tradition and modernity, offers a distinctive teaching environment. The city, being less frequented by tourists, provides a genuine Thai experience that few other places can match.

The opportunity to make a difference in the lives of students, combined with the chance to immerse oneself in the rich tapestry of Thai culture, makes Ubon Ratchathani a compelling destination for aspiring English teachers.