Greetings from Scotland. I am considering selling up and packing up and moving to Cambodia. As a single women of, ahem, older years ha ha. I wondered if it would be a good move for me. I have always been intrigued by Cambodia and I would love to work part time and live there. I hold a Master 150 hour TEFL/TESOL qualification and I have over 20 years as a senior Exec PA. I have experience being interviewed on Radio, TV and the Press. I have also written Press releases and conducted Public Speaking for a previous occupation. More recently, I was offered a Publishing contract by a major UK Publishing Company for my first novel which should hit the book shops in around 8 months and I am in the process of writing my second novel. I guess what I am asking is would it be a good idea to relocate to Cambodia, would I be able to find part time work with my skills and would I be able to manage the cost of living?

Kind regards,
Izzie

Hi Izzie!

You mentioned a TEFL cert, so I assume you're fine teaching English.

I've known several, ahem, older women, who teach English in Cambodia. I still think you're guaranteed a job if you're willing to teach little kids, as they almost always prefer a woman to teach young children.

Based on your background, I assume you'll do fine in an interview and landing a job.

You will likely get a 3-hour shift from around 8-11am, or roughly 2-5pm, Monday to Friday.

Sounds like you've been to Cambodia, so at least you know what you'll be stepping into.

Good luck, and feel free to ask us any other random questions you might have about moving to Cambodia.

Izzie wrote:Greetings from Scotland. I am considering selling up and packing up and moving to Cambodia. As a single women of, ahem, older years ha ha. I wondered if it would be a good move for me. I have always been intrigued by Cambodia and I would love to work part time and live there. I hold a Master 150 hour TEFL/TESOL qualification and I have over 20 years as a senior Exec PA.

I have experience being interviewed on Radio, TV and the Press.

I have also written Press releases and conducted Public Speaking for a previous occupation. More recently, I was offered a Publishing contract by a major UK Publishing Company for my first novel which should hit the book shops in around 8 months and I am in the process of writing my second novel. I guess what I am asking is would it be a good idea to relocate to Cambodia, would I be able to find part time work with my skills and would I be able to manage the cost of living?

Kind regards,
Izzie

Being interviewed on/by the radio, TV, and press is not something I would boast about. Many infamous people get interviewed before they are sent away.

I'm sure you know it Izzie but if you're a bit older good medical insurance and where you locate to in Cambodia regarding medical facilities is probably a major issue to consider and sort out for peace of mind. If you lead a healthy lifestyle I reckon living in Asia prolongs your life and quality of it.

There's not much writing work to be had in Cambodia but you can freelance online - and thus work for anyone, anywhere and there's plenty of that available from Cambodia. As others have said; you shouldn't have too much trouble landing English teaching work (though it won't pay that much). Health care is abysmal in Cambodia and health insurance, particularly for older people, is expensive but it's a must - being able to get treatment in Thailand may one day save your life.

It's worth noting that there are more and more older folks moving here and they seem, mainly at least, to be happy enough with their choice. Work out what you need to live on and then if you can make it work - make the jump. Better to live a life of regrets of having done something than regret never having done anything.

I think the ability to be interviewed shows a sense of good PA. People actually go through training to become Public Affairs experts. If anything it shows she's presentable and able to answer questions in a very public way. Does anyone know if some universities have courses of the sort? If anything, you could fill your time with writing. I know a few writers here.

sure Izzie, come to Cambodia , really a great place for an elder woman , the locals are waiting for you with great anticipation