Batfish:6 months? Why so long in Pattaya? Will you be seeking employment as an instructor in Thailand? Do you speak any languages (other than Inglish)?
Well, it will take 4-6 months to complete my IDC, sooner if I do the training in one lump, or longer if I decide to go wandering off to see the rest of Thailand for a week or 2 here and there. The course is flexible like that. So of course, during the DM level, going elsewhere to dive occasionally will be very sensible I think.... it is after all about getting the experience of different sites and situations. After that, I was thinking of heading towards Phuket side, perhaps looking for a job if I can get the visa arranged, and taking a TEFL course on the side for my future prospects!
I speak a little Spanish...mostly basic with a little intermediate sprinkled in, so of course I want to develop this skill by aiming to get a job in a Spanish speaking country following my stint in Thailand, where I can then team it up with my TEFL qualification.
Ok, that's my hazy plan for the short term to the long term. How does it sound?