Korean Job Discussion Forums

jondepoer · Joined: 02 May 2010

I am planning to head to Thailand with my girlfriend in January. I have the CELTA, but she does not. The mission: have a little vacation together, then she takes the CELTA, and I continue "vacating". I have done the CELTA, so I am familiar with the course, but I've never been to Thailand.

First question: Chang Mai or Bangkok (Phuket does not have a course in January). Considerations are proximity to beach and cost of living.

Second weather: How's Thailand in January?

I'm sure there will be many more questions to follow. Thanks for reading!

ttompatz · Joined: 05 Sep 2005 Location: Kwangju, South Korea

The Gipkik · Joined: 30 Mar 2009

I did my CELTA in Thailand over 10 years ago and I lived in Thailand for a good 5 years. There are more options nowadays. If you want to be near a beach while your girlfriend completes the CELTA, try this school in Phuket: http://www.cactustefl.com/tefl/course.php?course_id=1873

Yes, Phuket can be a little more expensive, but you'll get the beach and Phuket Muang (Phuket Town) isn't as overwhelming as Bangkok. Good luck!

Oops! Just noticed you were looking for January. In that case, I'd stick with Bangkok. You can get to Pattaya in about 2 hours.

Son Deureo! · Joined: 30 Apr 2003

I just finished my CELTA in Chiang Mai, and although it's nowhere near any beach, I'd recommend it.

It's a bit different from most CELTA programs in that it's residential, your classes will be in the same hotel that you'll be living in. Your costs are pretty straightforward at $1600 USD for the course, and $2345 USD total for the course plus room and board (laundry and weekend meals are extra. For the amount of work that you'll be doing, the convenience of having your classes less than a minute's walk from your hotel room is a massive advantage, and it's very helpful having your classmates all living nearby to share ideas with. It's nice to have meals waiting for you after class, and not having to worry about shopping, cleaning house, or doing laundry either.

I was able to get away from the learning center every weekend, and there's plenty to see and do in the Chiang Mai area (bars with live bands, mountains, temples, jungles, etc.) , but during the week, you'll pretty much be eating, breathing, and sleeping CELTA.

As for Thailand in January, it's great. It's still warm, and it's not the rainy season.

Good luck, whatever you decide.

oldtactics · Joined: 18 Oct 2008

I spent 6 weeks travelling around SE Asia back in April/May and I have to say without a doubt that Chiang Mai was my favourite place to visit. Ended up spending way more time there than I planned. I'd recommend it to anyone - beautiful city, great bars and restaurants, clean air, lots to see.

Drew345 · Joined: 24 May 2005

I did the CELTA at International House Bangkok. No doubt Bangkok can be tough, but the school and the boarding that they offer are only one subway stop apart (or a nice walk through the park). The boarding is in a nice neighborhood with nice restaurants (Rama 4 and Sathorn area).
You can't go wrong with Chiang Mai either. It is consistently rated as a top travel, living, retirement destination in the world.
January is the best time to Visit anywhere in Thailand.

jondepoer · Joined: 02 May 2010

Hmmm...seems Chang Mai is coming out on top, though I probably should have looked at a map before requesting a beachfront CELTA.

The all-inclusive package sounds the most appealing so far. My other option would be to just stay in Korea and do it, but the (more expensive) course plus accommodation would probably total about the same.

Thank you to all who commented.

Howler Monkey · Joined: 12 Jul 2010

If you are the laid back and casual sort you'll get on quite well in Chiang Mai. I loved the place.. It was less hectic that Southern Thailand. I rented a motor scooter for like 200 Baht a day and rode it all over the place. I went for miles and miles just cruising up and down mountains and out in the countryside. .

This allowed me to hit a bunch of the mountain people tourist sites without going on a tour. Much better in my opinion as I could take my time and enjoy myself.

Best part about Chiang Mai was sitting on the sidewalk in a lounge chair getting a foot massage while drinking beer and watching people go by. Well not the best thing for sure, but it was relaxing.

Oreovictim · Joined: 23 Aug 2006

I've don't have my CELTA, but I will say this about Chiang Mai - In January it does get a little cold at night. Pack pants and a light jacket. Being in a tuk-tuk in shorts at night is brutal!