Hello! I am heavily considering the TT Internship for next year. I was extremely excited about this opportunity until I considered the racial relations throughout Asia. Other than the obvious culture shock, I want prepare myself for any prejudice that I may experience in order maintain my safety and a positive attitude. If any persons of color or any TEFL teachers of any race have experienced or witnessed any prejudice from fellow teachers, students, or the local community in Thailand or another Asian countries, please share your experience(s) or knowledge.

Thanks in advance,

Sheree

Hello there,
I think it would depend what area of Thailand you went to, I've been in Thailand for 7 months and I have heard of the Thais being outwardly racist. This is not true of all Thai's though, a lot are happy to have a native English speaker in the school.
The Thai people will stare intently at any foreign person but I have noticed that they seem to stare at my fellow teachers who are black moreso. You are right to be a little concerned though as noone wants to be made feel uncomfortable in a foreign country!

I am currently sitting next to my friend's wife Suwimon (Mon) who is from Buriram, Thailand. I have asked her this question on your behalf. Mon was quite shocked and stated that she and her people loved foreigners, white and black she said "It not matter - we like all" "Not matter what colour". Mon's husband said that most Thai people are pracitising Buddhists and they to have a more positive outlook. Hope this helps.

Thanks CescaB & Maladicta for your input!

Hey there,

Being a person of colour myself I fully understand the concerns and have many myself.  However I've been to Thailand on several occasions and went there twice in one year!  Thai people are so friendly and loved the colour of my skin.  They stared but with admiration and I simply waved back and they gave the biggest, warmest smiles.  I was even in a park and a group of young students and their teachers were literally staring at me and I waved and they just waved back and continued to stare, smile and wave, one of the most bizarre experiences of my life! I constanly had people coming up to me saying "you're so beautiful' and saying to my friends "my friend is so beautiful" meaning "your friend is so beautiful".  In all honesty I've never felt so special.  I went to Bangkok and some of the island which were more tourist based but still great.  I'm actually thinking of starting there and although it may be harder for anyone who's different as long as you believe in yourself and stay positive should be absolutely fine in Thailand :)

Vicki