Job Discussion Forums

[EmmaLisa]

Hola!

I'm planning to do the CELTA course at International House (IH) in Chiang Mai this April 2011 and have a few questions that I'm hoping some people out there can answer... I've done hours of research online through this forum and many other websites and even though I've found out a lot of information I thought it would be better to start something fresh and be more specific in my questioning.... Also I'd love to chat to anyone else planning to do this course....

This is my first times guys so please be gentle...

Ok here goes.....

Accommodation -

I've decided to go with the option to stay at the resort/hotel (Nugent Waterside - near Hang Dong) that the course is held at, mainly because it takes the stress and hassle out of looking for accommodation/food etc and especially travel time each day, extra time that I believe will be precious when completing this course. The location seems quite rural which of course has many benefits, however due to this I'm struggling to find any information on facilities/shops etc close by which will help in maintaining some sanity throughout the four weeks...

Has anyone stayed here? and if so can you tell me more about it? There is not much in terms of reviews available.

Gym/Exercise

Most importantly I'm looking for a gym and/or fitness centre centre in walking/cycling distance - I've found two hotels via Google maps but they seem a little far away.

I was thinking of buying a second hand bike to get around and also use to exercise and clear the mind after a long day, Does anyone know the best way/place to buy one? I've found a few places that sell then new but very expensive for only 4 weeks!

Is the location of the centre close enough to any hiking/walking tracks?

2nd Hand Books -

IH has sent me a list of all the books required for both pre course reading and whilst actually doing the course. There is 3 main books and then some extra books to help with Grammar etc.

I've done some research and these books are quite expensive!!! IH say that they are available to buy at reception but I can't imagine them being much cheaper than online.

Is there anyone out there that has done the CELTA course and either has some second hand books that they would like to sell or could direct me to somewhere that I can buy them when I arrive in Chiang Mai?

Phone/Internet

Can anyone suggest the best pre paid mobile phone company/Sim to go with/buy for use with an IPhone? For example a pre paid plan that includes some data and also allows cheapish calls to international numbers.

This is all my questions for now - I don't really have any on the actual course itself as I've been researching what's involved for some time now and know (or at least think I know) what I'm getting myself in for...

Thanks to anyone that's taken the time to read this post and I'd be really grateful to anyone with any knowledge to pass on what they can.

Look forward to hearing from you... Especially anyone who'll be on the course with me!!

Em

[naturegirl321]

I haven't done the CELTA in Chiangmai, but just a couple comments that I hope can help

1. About the gym, I'd forget it. YOu'll be doing the course FT for a month, it's called an intensive course for a reason Afterwards, you'll have to find a job. IF you get a job in Chiangmai, THEN I'd join the gym, after I got a job.

2. About buying a bike, wait to get there. I'm sure people at your course or hostel could help you. If you're only there for 4 weeks, I'd just take taxis, remember, you'll have to take the bike with you or sell it afterwards

3. Amazon is a good place to buy books. And you could always sell them afterwards

Sorry, can't help you with the phone or hostel. We stayed a in podunk place while we were there.

though I WOULD suggest you use Skype to communicate with peopel back home. Computer to computer calls are free. And the majority of people nowadays have computers. And know how to use them, even my retired father

[tttompatz]

Quick answers for you:

no gym... tourists just use the hotel facilities and locals can't afford one.
Hiking or planting rice is great exercise and costs you nothing.

A bike is 2000 baht (new) at the local TESCO (but tuk-tuks or motor bike taxis are about 30-40 baht so you get a lot of rides for the value of your bike). Too hot to ride it from April to August anyway.

Internet is available in most hotels and the cyber-cafes. Rates are 10-20 baht per hour.

All of the cell network providers (or phone shops) can sell you a SIM to get connected. SIMs are 40-100 baht (depending on the number) and rates are reasonable for data and local calls (you load your phone in 100 baht increments). International calls are prohibitive from your cell. Use a land line and calling card or something like skype or YIM/MSN, etc.

Can't help you with books. Most newbie teachers keep theirs as reference books when they get their first job.

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