Teaching and Travelling: A Journey of Cultural Immersion and Personal Growth


Travelling and teaching are transformative experiences that go beyond the typical backpacking adventure. When you combine the two, you embark on a journey that immerses you in the local community, allowing you to truly experience the culture and everyday life of the country's inhabitants. This unique blend of travel and teaching has shaped me in ways I never could have imagined.

My first foray into travelling and teaching took me to Thailand, where I had the privilege of meeting an extraordinary woman named Mrs. Julianna. From the moment we met, she became more than just a friend; she became my Thai mother. Mrs. Julianna was the epitome of kindness and happiness, and she immediately welcomed me into her world, showing me the real side of Thai culture.

As a retired teacher with impeccable English skills, Mrs. Julianna quickly became my closest confidante in Bangkok. Her warm smile and genuine affection made me feel like part of her family, and I cherished every moment spent in her company. Not only did she enrich my experience in Thailand, but she also eased the worries of my own parents back home, knowing I had someone so caring looking out for me.

Together with her husband Tony, Mrs. Julianna introduced me to the best of Bangkok, from hidden local gems to mouthwatering restaurants serving the most delicious Thai cuisine. But beyond the sights and flavours, what I remember most about Mrs. Julianna is her love for children, a passion we both shared. Her kindness and generosity knew no bounds, and she even welcomed my parents when they came to visit me, treating them like family.

When I returned to Bangkok with my partner, Mrs. Julianna opened her home to us once again, allowing us to experience the city through her eyes. Her unwavering kindness and hospitality left a lasting impression on me, shaping my perspective on teaching, travel, and life itself.

Teaching, I've come to realise, is not just about imparting knowledge; it's about building connections and giving each other a helping hand. Mrs. Julianna embodied this ethos in everything she did, and I aspire to extend the same kindness and generosity to others that she showed to me.

As I continue my journey as an educator and a traveller, I carry with me the invaluable lessons learned from Mrs. Julianna and the countless other individuals I've met along the way. Their warmth, kindness, and unwavering hospitality have made me who I am today—a teacher, a traveller, and a believer in the power of human connection.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

The Moulding Power of Every Teaching Position: Shaping Educators Beyond Expectations

Image
Teaching is not merely a profession; it's a journey of continuous growth and development. Every classroom, every lesson, and every student interaction plays a pivotal role in shaping a teacher's identity and pedagogical approach. Whether one finds themselves in a dream position or grappling with challenges , each teaching experience contributes to the intricate mosaic of skills, perspectives, and wisdom that defines an educator. In this blog, we'll explore how every teaching position molds teachers, fostering a unique blend of expertise and empathy that enriches their professional journey. Embracing the Learning Curve As educators, we often hear about the importance of lifelong learning . While this concept extends far beyond the classroom, it finds its essence in the daily experiences of teachers. Every teaching position, whether it's your first role fresh out of university or a seasoned veteran in a prestigious institution, presents a learning curve . The challenges...
Read more

Finding Inspiration: Reflecting on Those Who Shaped My Teaching Journey

Image
Throughout my journey as an educator, I have been fortunate to encounter a myriad of individuals who have inspired and guided me along the way. From family members who were teachers themselves to mentors who took me under their wing, each person has left an indelible mark on my path to becoming a teacher. One of the first inspirations in my life was my aunt, who spent her career as a dedicated educator. Her passion for teaching and unwavering commitment to her students served as a guiding light for me , igniting my own desire to make a positive impact in the lives of others through education. As I embarked on my teaching career, I carried her wisdom and dedication with me, striving to emulate her unwavering dedication and compassion. Throughout my education and early teaching years, I encountered numerous teachers who served as mentors and role models. These individuals went above and beyond to support me, offering guidance, encouragement, and invaluable insights into the art of teach...
Read more

Embracing Diversity: A Teaching Journey in Thailand

Image
Teaching is not just a profession ; it's a journey filled with adventure, challenges, and moments of profound discovery. As someone who has dedicated their entire career to education, my journey began in the vibrant and culturally rich country of Thailand . Fresh out of university, I found myself teaching in a private Catholic school for boys—a setting vastly different from my upbringing in the UK. The moment I stepped into the classroom, I was struck by the stark differences in culture and discipline between the two countries. However, what truly captivated me was the boundless enthusiasm and eagerness of the children to learn English. In a class of 40 five-year-old students, each face radiated with curiosity and determination, despite the challenges they faced. One of the most heart warming memories I carry from my teaching experiences is the simple yet profound gesture of children wanting to hold my hand as we walked to lunch. Their innocent enthusiasm and genuine affection fi...
Read more