Brazil, Spain, Thailand, Vietnam... Take your pick! You can find your dream TEFL destination today in this incredible e-Guide giving you insider information on the newest top 10 TEFL destinations abroad! So get your free e-Guide today and find out...
1. E
FRANC POLAND
SPAIN
Teach Abroad:
Top 10 TEFL
Destinations
i-to-i 1...2...3...smile!
Teaching English Abroad with
SOUTH
KOREA
CHINA
THAILAND JAPAN
VIETNAM
2. Teach Abroad!
The Top Ten TEFL Hotspots
If you speak English and want Contents
to live and work abroad, Introduction 3
you’re in for a treat! In this
Spain 4
e-Guide, you’ll find heaps of
inspiration and information France 6
on the top ten TEFL hotspots Japan 8
around the world. So, with no Thailand 10
further ado, let’s get going!
China 12
Behind the Scenes First:
Poland 14
Why TEFL?
Teaching English abroad is not only an incredible way to South Korea 16
fund your travels around the world, it’s also a great way to
make your mark overseas! English is the global language Vietnam 18
of business, politics and economics, so teaching English to
your students will significantly improve their academic and
professional opportunities in the many years to come.
Turkey 20
With millions of people eager to learn English, it’s time for
you to find your dream TEFL destination and start your TEFL
Brazil 22
adventure abroad!
So… get yourself a drink, get a cushion to rest
Things We’ve Learned 24
your bum on and start exploring the top ten
TEFL destinations of 2012! What’s Next? 26
Not a bad view, eh?
!
Say cheese he came ra!
Pose for t
2
3. Everything You’ll
Find in the e-Guide!
Over the valley and through Top Cities
the hills… We’ve searched With many TEFL destinations, you can usually pinpoint a few
of the top cities where you’ll find the best jobs and highest
high and low to find you the pay. Opportunities can exist across the whole country, but
this section mentions a few of the most popular cities for you
essentials on the most popular to consider in your job search.
TEFL destinations around the Destination Types & Weather
world! You’re only human! The climate and landscape are a fair
concept to consider when relocating abroad. If you love hot
Some people are happy to travel abroad with zero
summers and chilling out at the beach, you’ll need to know
information about their destination while others want the get
it’s there waiting for you!
whole enchilada when it comes to info! Well, this e-Guide
is somewhere in between. You’ll get a great overview of the Food
topics to consider when choosing your TEFL destination but
not so much that it will take you all year to read it! Some destinations are worth travelling to just for the food!
Travelling abroad is not only an eye opening experience…
Training & Experience it’s also a great chance to tickle your taste buds with
incredible flavours and cuisines. So, enjoy the delights
What do you need? Every employer in every city in every
abroad and feel free to try chickens’ feet!
country will be different… so always keep that in mind!
However, you can find a few rules of thumb to follow in TEFL Here If…
these sections. Your best bet? Get top TEFL training to make
sure you stand out in the crowd! Simply put… here’s a fun breakdown of whether you’d love
living in this TEFL destination.
Education Required
Don’t worry! Employers don’t expect you to be a So, as always…
mathematician or some literary genius! The education
requirements usually boil down to work visa requirements. happy TEFLing!
Teaching Types & Opportunities
From teaching in schools to hosting private lessons, there are
all sorts of TEFL opportunities abroad! While most TEFLers
will go down the schools route, it’s very common to pick up
work teaching English to business people… while some have
even taught in nunneries!
Money Matters
The currency, expected salaries and cost of living are always
something to consider when planning your TEFL move. How
else will you plan all your exciting weekend getaways!?
ets!
Teacher's P
3
4. Spain
If you want to TEFL in Spain,
you’re not alone! Spain is
r?
one of the most popular TEFL de nt eve
destinations around the world Cutest stu
and there are incredible
opportunities for you if you’re
ready to bask in the sun, enjoy Spain might be in a crisis, but the
TEFL industry is booming. Spanish
some sangria & make Spain people NEED to learn English to
your new home away from help them in the job market, parents are
prepared to pay extra for their kids to have a
home! good level of English because they
need a high level to get into the best
universities. The weather is gorgeous;
blue skies for over 300 days a year.
Training & Experience
Barry O'Leary Read more...
Spain is one of the world’s top TEFL destinations and the
competition for jobs is really high, which means you’re
unlikely to get work there unless you have a high level of
TEFL training and some experience of teaching English
learners. So if you’re heart is set on sunny Spain, we’d Education Required
suggest our top of the range EDI CertTEFL.
If you’re an EU national, you can search for work in
Spain the same way you would in your home country. If
you’re not an EU national, you’ll need a university degree
in order to get your work visa. However, we highly
recommend you conduct your own research for visa
requirements.
Teaching Types & Opportunities
Many jobs in Spain require fluency in English, so the
demand for native English TEFL teachers is huge!
In fact, English language lessons are compulsory in all
state schools and while positions are usually
only offered to the more experienced TEFL
teachers, pretty much every town and city
has at least one Academia de Inglés that
Fancy a lu may employ less experienced teachers.
nchtime d TEFL jobs in Spain can be found in any
ip? number of different settings, from state
schools and kindergartens to private
tuition and language schools.
4
5. Money Matters... Show Me
the Euro!
Currency: Like most members of the EU, Spain’s official
currency is the euro.
Salary & Perks: Firstly, remember salaries & perks
always vary! The average salary will vary from €700 -
Pick me! Pick me!
€1,000 per month, but this will depend on the type of school
in which you teach. Accommodation is usually not included
in your package. You can also earn extra cash doing private
tutoring, where you’ll usually earn €10 - €25 an hour.
Destination Types & Weather
Cost of Living: The cost of living will vary based on the Each city has its own unique charm and offers lots of
part of Spain in which you live. In general, the cost of living opportunity for people looking to teach English in Spain.
is reasonable but definitely not cheap. You should expect Spain is not a place to grow rich and save, but if having a
prices similar to those in the Western world and make sure memorable time is more important to you than having loads of
you avoid the tourist hot spots! If you do your research cash in the bank, Spain might be the perfect choice.
and know where to eat and hang out, you can have some
Spanish weather can vary greatly from region to region.
significant euro savings!
In the north you’ll find mild winters and summers, while the
temperatures can be more extreme the further south you travel.
Top Cities
Madrid - Spain’s capital is probably the biggest market
Food
for TEFL jobs in the country. It is one of the largest cities
Tapas, sangria, paella… Mmm! Spain offers you some
in Europe, and as the capital, it is home to many of the
incredible flavours in both food and drinks. The best way
country’s largest businesses and educational institutes.
to sample a lot of different foods is to go for ‘tapas’ with a
Barcelona - Perhaps Spain’s most feted city and capital of glass of tinto (red wine)! This is your chance to have loads of
Catalunya, Barcelona is also one of the country’s top TEFL different snacks, and it is usually served throughout the day.
destinations. There’s a well developed TEFL job market in the Food can range from meat delicacies, like roast lamb and
city and the opportunities to teach English are largely varied. beef, to seafood if you’re living along the coast. Paella, one
Everyone from language institutes and state schools through of the most popular foods from Spain, gives you a whole
to businesses and private clients are looking to learn English medley of rice, seasoning, vegetables and usually seafood
from native speakers. or meat.
Seville - Seville is the capital of the beautiful southern Things to try:
province of Andalusia. While it doesn’t offer the sheer
There are loads of incredible foods to try. Tortilla Espanola!
number of jobs available in Madrid and Barcelona, there is
You’ve probably had eggs, potatoes and onions before…
still a well developed TEFL job market and the cost of living
but the Tortilla Espanola combines these tasty foods into
is lower, so you can live comfortably on a TEFL teacher’s
one big omelette. It’s not as adventurous as frog legs but
salary.
for many newbies in Spain, it can be quite unusual… but
delicious. Bacalao con tomate is simply cold fish with a
tomato sauce, a very popular and unique dish! Tinto verano
is red wine with lemonade and is pretty hard to beat on a
Not only am I learning more hot day (which is most days!)...
about Spanish people, getting
under the skin of the culture TEFL Here If...
and discovering what it is that makes them You thrive in the warm weather and like a laid back lifestyle.
tick, but I'm also enhancing my It’s also an incredible destination if you want to learn
career, my skills and building Spanish, as you’ll have the chance to practice all the time!
something more than simply a 24 So… ready to get yourself TEFLing abroad?
hour-a-week TEFL career. Check out internationally recognised
TEFL courses today!
Will Peach Read more...
5
6. France
Ooh la la! 80 million tourists
visit France every year, so they
must be doing something right.
Get under the skin of this vast EFL
and complex country famous e mon Tr
J'adorofesseu
for its art, food and berets as pr
you live and work as a TEFL
teacher! I am teaching in north-east France, in a city
called Nancy. Fabulous place, where I moved
after marrying a French woman ... of course!
Training & Experience I did my TEFL course before leaving Australia
in December 2007 and have completely enjoyed my change in
A huge TEFL hub for teaching business English, most schools career. In Australia I was a senior manager, with
will want to see evidence of a high level of TEFL training. some background in training so, because my
Your best bet for landing a job teaching English in France French is so bad, I realised that the only thing I
could conceivably do was teach English. I love the
is to take a level 5 qualification like the EDI CertTEFL. It
interaction with the students, and the way they
combines face to face teaching, online tuition and vital are so keen to learn English!
experience of teaching real English learners. If you’re
budget can’t quite stretch that far check out our 120 Hour Neil Powell Read more...
Online TEFL Course & the 140 Hour Combined TEFL Course.
Education Required
A university degree is not required for a work visa, but it can
help you find the best jobs. If you’re an EU national, there
are no special requirements but you do need to register with
the authorities once you have found your job.
Teaching Types & Opportunities
As with much of Europe, French businesses are increasingly
seeing English as a key skill for their employees. In fact,
legislation states that French companies have to put aside
at least 1.5% of their payroll to employee training. Many
private language schools are solely concerned with teaching
business English – so a relevant business English certificate
would be useful.
Vive la France!
6
7. Money Matters... Euro-nly
Live Once!
Currency: Like most members of the EU, France’s official
currency is the euro.
Salary & Perks: Your monthly salary can vary from
€1,200 - €1,600 per month, and a business qualification
and/or experience can really boost this figure. If you want to
do private tutoring, you can earn anywhere from €15 - €20
You're not camera
are you boys? shy,
an hour.
Cost of Living: In France, this really depends on where
you are! If you’re living in Paris, always try and go for the
‘prix fixe’ menu, as they offer you better value for money.
Anywhere else in the country, you can get a meal with some
wine for about €20. As usual, beware of tourist hot spots, as
restaurants will always be more expensive. Destination Types & Weather
The weather is ever changing in France depending on
Top Cities where you are. If you’re in the north, pack a parka. If you’re
in the central regions of France, pack sunglasses, decent
Paris - Paris is many people’s dream TEFL job destination, walking shoes and a decent coat for the colder months. If
and it’s not hard to see why. It is one of the most beautiful you’re lucky enough to be in the south, pack your swimwear!
cities on the planet and the opportunities for teaching English It’s club Mediterranean time!
in Paris are many and varied. You could be city-based in elegant Paris, sipping coffees in
As living costs can be high, you’ll struggle to save much cafes, or strolling through picturesque towns with the sun on
money unless you land a well-paid job, but the experience your back overlooking vineyards... a tough choice to make!
of living and working in Paris will more than make up for it!
Lyon - Lyon has a population of around half a million Food
people and is regarded as one of France’s most important
Tasting the foods of France is one of the other perks of living
economic and business centres. As is often the case,
in this incredible destination (alongside the TEFL experience,
economic success has brought a high demand for people
of course). You’ve probably already tried a croissant, pain
with an understanding of teaching business English.
au chocolat or a croque-monsieur… but not in France!
Montpellier - The southern city of Montpellier is France’s
Things to try:
fastest growing city of the last 25 years. This growth has
led to an increased demand for TEFL teachers as the Try every pastry available to you! There are far too many
city attempts to become a major player in the European incredible foods to describe, but here’s a quick list to get
economy. There is a fast growing TEFL job market and it is a your mouth salivating: Tarte tartin (apple tart), soupe de
little less competitive than in other large French cities. fraises (boozy strawberry soup), chariot de fromage (a
chariot of cheese!) and bouillabaisse (a fish stew). Should
we bother mentioning escargot and les grenouilles... snails
and frog legs of course!
After 16 years spent in TEFL Here If...
England, I decided to go back
You want to sample a new culture while having
to France in 2009. I felt like
the comforts of a Western lifestyle. Just make
combining my English knowledge with a new sure you’re motivated to get out there and
career path. I am now an English teacher. I TEFL to a high standard while make new
teach privately both students at all levels friends in a bustling environment.
and adults. I am loving it! The i-to-i TEFL So… ready to get yourself
course gave me the confidence I needed. TEFLing abroad? Check out
internationally recognised
Dominique Papineau
TEFL courses today!
7
8. Japan
Mix a little sci-fi futurism
with plenty of technological
innovation, add a dash of
traditional culture, throw in a We love Japan
generous helping of the most
polite students you’ll meet...
and you have the recipe for a Japan literally does have
perfect TEFL destination, also everything... something for
everyone. You can teach in
known as Japan! the big cities and have western comforts.
Up to date technology, gizmos
Training & Experience and gadget, mixed with hidden
There’s a huge demand for English teachers in Japan, shrines and temples.
so the amount of training you require depends on your
teaching experience and what you want out of your TEFL Paul Dixon Read more...
career. If you haven’t had any teaching experience before,
you’ll need to get started with a pretty high level course.
Something like our top-end EDI CertTEFL or the 140 Hour
Combined TEFL Course would be ideal.
Education Required
With a degree and TEFL qualification, you should be able to
find a TEFL job quite easily!
Teaching Types & Opportunities
Since the economic slump of the 90s, the Japanese economy
has strengthened greatly. So the already-high demand for
English teachers is increasing further. There is huge demand
within private schools for business English teachers, and
English teachers within state schools and kindergartens.
There are also plenty of opportunities for private tutorials in
public locations. In all, there are ample TEFL opportunities
across plenty of locations across Japan.
g
the Risin
La nd of un...
S
8
9. Money Matters... Yen, Yen, Yen!
Currency: Japan’s currency is the yen.
Salary & Perks: You can earn around 255,500 yen a
month and some schools will offer subsidised housing too.
With such a high demand, you can also explore private
tutoring to earn some more cash on the side.
Cost of Living: Japan has a reputation for being really
expensive, but food, accommodation and transport can be
a lot cheaper than parts of Western Europe, Australia and Konnichiwa!
North America. Eating at local restaurants and shopping at
cheap markets (100 Yen Shops) can really help your yen go
a long way! Food
Rice is one of the most important ingredients in most
Top Cities Japanese foods, so if you don’t like rice, good luck! Sushi
Tokyo – The capital city and the shining star of TEFL (rice wrapped in seaweed), fried rice (a variety of stir fried
destinations! There are plenty of TEFL opportunities at the vegetables and meat with rice), onigiri (rice balls wrapped
many language schools and institutes across the city. Many in sea weed), domburi (a bowl of cooked rice with toppings
foreigners live and work in the Roppongi district, so it’s a like tempura) and kayu (a warm porridge) are popular rice-
good place to start looking for a job and a good place to based dishes. Japan also offers you incredible marinated
rest your head. vegetables, meat dishes and seafood galore.
Kobe – Kobe is regarded as Japan’s most attractive and Things to try:
cosmopolitan city, sat on a steep hill overlooking Osaka Bay. Weird and wonderful foods await you! Natto are fermented
The rise in international businesses in this area means there soybeans with a pungent smell, but these slimy beans are
is a constant demand for TEFL teachers with business English usually served with your breakfast of hot rice and sometimes
knowledge. a raw egg. Mozuku is a hairy, stringy type of seaweed and
Kyoto – A Japanese urban jungle of types, what lies is very nutritious! Lastly… shishamo! It’s a skinny little fish
beneath modern Kyoto is ancient in heart and soul. With jam-packed with crunchy eggs! You just have to rip the head
17 World Heritage sites, over 1,000 temples and plenty of off and eat everything inside of it!
authentic Japanese cultural experiences, Kyoto satisfies all
culture vultures!
I worked with 8 different schools of elementary
Destination Types & Weather and junior high school grade and enjoyed the
highs of spontaneous trips around the country,
Japanese winters are sunny and mild in the south with after school activities with students and making
temperatures steadily getting colder and snow falling some of the most fantastic friends ever
as well as the lows of trudging to work through
heavier the further north you go. Spring and autumn
hip high snow and sleet and getting lost in the
time are perfectly pleasant mountains. Throw in a few festivals, some seriously
while summer varies from good food and some close encounters with mountain
warm to extremely hot. monkeys and snakes and you have an entirely awe
Rainfall in Japan is fairly inspiring time from my life.
consistent throughout
Carly Adams Read more...
the year, with June and
July as the main rainy
seasons.
TEFL Here If...
You are looking for true cultural immersion within intriguing
traditions and customs. Consider that in smaller rural areas,
English speakers can be hard to find, so you should be
ready for an interesting and fun challenge!
So… ready to get yourself TEFLing abroad?
Check out internationally recognised
TEFL courses today! 9
10. Thailand
Given its full title, Bangkok
has the longest place name in
ff
the world: “Krung thep mah- Miss T showing o
anakhon bovorn ratanakosin her moves!
mahintharayutthaya mahad-
ilok pop noparatratchathani
burirom udomratchanivet- I love this country. It was the best
place, I feel, for me to come as
mahasathan amornpiman a new teacher and new to living
avatarnsathit sakkathattiyavis- abroad. The people truly are very friendly
and there are plenty of Westerners here
nukarmprasit”! Yep, try saying that you don't feel too overwhelmed
that after a few SangSoms! by culture shock (although, I'm
trying to escape that now!).
Training & Experience Jess Watson Read more...
To tell you the truth, it’s possible to find a teaching job in
Thailand without any TEFL qualification! But the question
Education Required
to ask yourself is… Do you really want to go down that
route? Probably not! Thailand is one of the most popular Rule number one… a university degree is a must to get a
TEFL destinations and with that popularity comes fierce work visa and legally teach English in Thailand. i-to-i strongly
competition for the best jobs with the best pay in the most recommends you do not attempt to work in Thailand without
popular cities. You want to make sure you stand out in the the correct visa, as you can get yourself into some serious
crowd with a top qualification that shows commitment and trouble. Sometimes there are teaching programmes for
dedication to TEFL. Additionally, without any TEFL training, people without degrees, so do some research and don’t
what would you do during your first hour… day… or week make any brash decisions! If you’re desperate to make
in the classroom? the land of smiles your new home, you can also research
So, check out these internationally recognised TEFL courses voluntary TEFL opportunities in Thailand.
and choose the right one for you! Remember, you can
request a free consultation with an advisor to learn more! Teaching Types & Opportunities
Also, if the idea of a supported package appeals to you,
check out our Thailand internship opportunities. With 24/7 Tourism is huge in Thailand, that’s no surprise, so English
in country support, monthly spending allowance and free teachers are always in demand because of it, good news
accommodation, it’s a great way to start your TEFL journey. for everyone! The English Language market in Thailand is
well established and well organised. A well respected TEFL
qualification will make finding a TEFL job a little easier and
will set you up for the challenges ahead.
10
11. Money Matters... You Bet Your
Baht!
Currency: The currency used in Thailand is the Thai baht.
Salary & Perks: You can earn between 30,000 baht
and 60,000 baht a month; however, this depends on the
school, the city and your experience. You can also earn
some extra cash through private tutoring and the doors are
sure to swing wide open once you’ve started working at a
school. Look at w
Cost of Living: In a nutshell? The cost of living in Thailand we did tea hat
is very cheap so your salary should go very far! A two cher!
course meal and a cold Singha beer shouldn’t cost you
more than 200 baht! Internal transport is also incredibly
cheap making it quite easy for you to explore the country in
your spare time. Remember, when it comes to day to day
shopping, the ability to haggle is a HUGE bonus! Destination Types & Weather
Thailand puts the ‘hu’ in humid! Humidity exists throughout
Top Cities the country, so come prepared for this by perhaps leaving
your oven door open when cooking! Destination types vary
Bangkok – A little obvious perhaps, but here’s why from intense city-based locations in central Bangkok to a
Bangkok is a top city. There are thousands of language hut near the beach in Chumpon! Pack your sunglasses and
schools across the city, as well as TEFL jobs in universities, baby wipes!
state schools and private business colleges. Bangkok is an
amazing and crazy city to be based in, try it for a short-term
contract and extend if you love it, which we bet you will. Food
Chiang Mai – Chiang Mai’s tourism industry is huge, and Where do you begin with Thailand? A favourite cuisine in
people come from all over Thailand to learn English and the West, Thai food is even more delicious in Thailand. Don’t
tap into this industry in hopes of a brighter future and higher be afraid of the markets... You’ll find the best foods there! If
income. Chiang Mai is stunning! you love coconut milk, spices and incredibly rich flavours,
Phuket – THE place you think of when it comes to you’re in for a LOT of Thai treats. From tom yam kung (spicy
Thailand’s glorious beaches. A massive tourist destination, prawn soup) to tom kha hai (chicken in coconut soup) to
there’s a real need for the locals to speak English in order phanaeng (meat in coconut cream), get your appetite ready!
to make the most of tourism in Phuket.. So, you should be Things to try:
in demand in Phuket! This is also a perfect location for a
It’s mind over matter! Kung ten is a very unique feasting
weekend beach break on a nearby deserted beach…
experience as you eat mini fresh water shrimps, prepared
with loads of spices and extras, while they are still alive!
Another treat? How about takaten? Simply remove the
wings, head and legs off this deep fried grasshopper before
dipping it in soy sauce and… bon appetit!
I did my TEFL with
TEFL Here If...
i-to-i, booked a flight and
came out to Thailand to You see quality of life as more important than how much you
try my hand at teaching. earn. You need to be non-confrontational also in Thailand;
it’s not a place for the hotheaded and impatient, as it’s
No regrets at all, best important to be respectful of local culture. Don’t TEFL here if
thing I ever did! you like pointing at things with your feet; that is an absolute
no no in Thailand…
Gareth Openshaw
Read more...
So… ready to get yourself TEFLing abroad?
Check out internationally recognised
TEFL courses today!
11
12. China
If the 20th Century was an
American Century, then the
21st looks set to belong to
at
China. But rather than making Hard daiy e :- )
everyone else learn Chinese, the off c
they’ve decided to learn
English! Which is great news
My experience in China so far has
for TEFL teachers... been one of the best and also one
of the most interesting things that
I have done. Chinese hospitality is second to none, in
Training & Experience the school where I am currently teaching we live in a
building with other teaching staff. We have home-made
A respectable TEFL qualification can go a long way! food brought to us, we get invited to their
China is one of the biggest TEFL hotspots with a huge homes and have currently just came back
demand for English teachers… but experience and from Sanming (South China) which is a
training counts for a lot. If you want to get one of the best
teachers home around 4 hours drive away
’
from where we live.
paid jobs, you’ll need top TEFL training and/or teaching
experience. Remember, i-to-i TEFL offers you internationally Laura Peters Read more...
recognised TEFL courses as well as internships in China to
give you solid teaching experience!
Education Required Teaching Types
China can be a tricky one! To legally work in China,
& Opportunities
you require a university degree for work visa purposes.
TEFL jobs in China can be found in a
However, many programmes exist to enable non-degree
number of different settings, from state
holders to live and work in China. The Teach in China
schools and kindergartens to one-to-one
Internship is a great example as it’s open to people
tuition and private language schools.
educated to the age of 18. You can learn more about the
The rise in demand for business
Teach in China Internship here.
English classes in particular is
due to more employers taking
advantage of the huge growth
that the Chinese economy has
seen in recent years. If you
hope to work in universities,
you’ll probably need a
degree and a recognised
TEFL course.
Great for
aS
12 afternoon unday
stroll...
13. Money Matters... It’s Yuan Time!
Currency: In China, the official currency is the ‘renminbi’
(RMB) and you will often hear the ‘yuan’ referenced as well.
Yuan refers to the actual currency units, such as dollars,
pounds or euros.
Salary & Perks: Like any job in any country, salaries
will always vary, but here’s a basic guideline for you.
Private schools will generally pay higher (10,000 RMB)
than government schools (about 8,500 RMB); additionally,
salaries will always be higher in the bigger cities and for the Ni Hao!
more experienced teachers. Sometimes your employers will
also offer you accommodation, flight reimbursements and
bonuses!
Food
Cost of Living: The cost of living and your lifestyle choices
go hand in hand! If you’re not looking for a 29th story Dishes vary between regions, but typically there is a great
penthouse in the centre of Beijing, you should be fine! China variety from restaurants to street stalls. Chinese food is
can be a really cheap TEFL destination for the westerner, traditionally based on opposites, which is a fundamental
especially if you choose to live like a local, using local concept in Chinese philosophy. It is not unusual to find hot
transport and going to incredible local restaurants. A bottle and cold food paired together along with pickled and fresh
of water can cost less than 5RMB… roughly 15 US cents! or spicy and mild food.
Things to try:
Top Cities Skewered bugs, butterfly cocoons and rats from the night
markets. Also, the ‘thousand-year-old eggs’ are not for the
Beijing – An obvious choice really. The capital city is home
faint-hearted! Coated in red earth, garden lime, salt, wood
to around 22 million people with more people streaming
ash and tea, these eggs and stored in airtight containers for
in every day. It is one of the key centres for international
100 days!
business and the demand for TEFL teachers is high. It is a
relatively easy place for Westerners to live in with a big ex-
pat community to help you settle in. TEFL Here If...
Shanghai – The city boasts the world’s largest cargo port You want to sample a new culture whilst having the relative
and is considered to be the most important commercial safety of Western escape routes if things get intense. You’ve
center in mainland China. These factors, and also its status got to be motivated to get out there and TEFL to a high
as a tourist destination, have fuelled a huge demand for standard and make new friends in a bustling environment.
English teachers - especially those with experience of, or
certification in, teaching business English. So… ready to get yourself TEFLing abroad?
Check out internationally recognised
Kunming – The capital of Yunnan, Kunming is home to TEFL courses today!
the headquarters of many of Yunnan’s biggest businesses,
which creates a huge demand for English teachers. It is also
regarded by many as one of the more pleasant Chinese
cities to live in due to its location high in the mountains.
It is so hard to believe that I
Destination Types & Weather have now been living and work1ing
in China for over a year....13 / 2
e
An umbrella… some flip-flops… a few bikinis… a big months now to be precise! Where has th
plate all that
parka… stop throwing things in your bag! China is a
time gone......as I sit and contem
is with joy
has happened in the last year it
massive country with a very diverse landscape, so the
ms my
and happiness.....this just confir ve
climate will change as you travel across the Yangtze River
as well as during the year. With cold, dry winters and hot,
humid summers, you’re in for the best of both worlds! thoughts that making this big mo
!
was the best thing I've ever done
Kate Fennell Read more...
13
14. Poland
Incredibly beautiful (and about
to hit the big time in 2012
as it plays host to the Euro
2012), Poland is crammed full
in
of stunning scenery, eager Dine out yle!
students and easy transport Polish st
links to help you see more of
the sights it has on offer... Plus
the beer is still cheap! Bonus! Having read one too many scathing
posts on the internet, this came as
something of a surprise. Poland,
beautiful?! Huh?! But it really
Training & Experience is! Over the past few weeks, I've visited several
A TEFL certificate is your ticket to Poland, as you’ll usually towns, each one built around a central
need a reputable qualification to obtain a work visa (even 'Rynek' (main square), all of which are
if you have an EU passport). With the demand for English unfailingly beautiful. You find yourself
teachers on the rise, it’s recommended that you get top gravitating back to them constantly.
TEFL training to really stand out in the market. Experience
Briona Cable Read more...
can be useful but is definitely not a requirement so don’t
worry! i-to-i TEFL does offer you Teach in Poland Internships
depending on the time of year, so make sure you speak to a
TEFL advisor to learn more! Just request a free call-me-back
today.
Education Required
Due to the visa requirements and the high level of A university degree is required to obtain a work visa, so
competition, you’ll probably need a top-end TEFL don’t take this lightly. While programmes may exist for
qualification like our EDI CertTEFL or the 140 Hour non-degree holders, the general rule is that a degree is
Combined TEFL Course to have a good chance of landing a necessary. As always, this is a guide so feel free to conduct
decent teaching job in Poland. your own research!
Teaching Types & Opportunities
With a population of almost 40 million, there is no shortage
of people looking to learn English, and their reasons for
learning are varied. With the economy previously working
against Poland, there was a rush of Poles leaving to more
prosperous countries. Now the tide is changing, more
tourists are discovering Poland, so there is a demand for
Poles to learn English to meet the needs and prospects that
tourism provides!
the oldest
is one of ld!
14 loth Hall
Krakow C ing malls in the wo
r
shopp
15. Money Matters... Zloty for Your
Thoughts?
Currency: The currency in Poland is called the zloty
Salary & Perks: Whilst TEFLing in Poland, you can
expect to earn anything between 1,500 and 4,500zl per
month, depending on your qualifications and any previous
experience. A small amount of schools may provide you with
an end-of-contract bonus, but this is not very common.
Cost of Living: Depending on where you choose to base
yourself, you can actually live very well on your salary! Time to hit the
Shared accommodation situated within easy reach of city markets!
centres can be around 2,000zl per month which may even
include bills.
Top Cities Food
Vegetarians and cabbage haters – steer clear! Just kidding!
Kraków – It almost goes without saying that Kraków is the
While the diet in Poland relies fairly heavily on chicken,
premier destination for TEFLers in Poland. Rated as one of
pork and cabbage to bulk up dishes like stews and soups,
the most beautiful cities by many visitors, there are so many
Polish food is ‘hearty and nutritious’... you can’t go wrong
stunning buildings, it’s easy to lose count. Rynek Glowny
with those words. Poles take a lot of pride in their food and
is well worth spending a little extra on a hot drink and
festive meals, so it can sometimes take DAYS to prepare!
watching the world go by. Its tourist status ensures there is
constant demand for TEFL teachers. Things to try:
Warsaw – Living in Warsaw will feel like living on a Warm your bones with a hearty bowl (see…hearty, we
movie set entitled ‘Mediaeval Old Town’ and would be your can’t stay away from the word!) of Borscht, a type of purple
chance to live in a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Royal soup made of tomato and beetroot. Don’t leave without
Castle is the most prominent tourist attraction and stepping trying babka cake, pickled cucumber, Sauerkraut (pickled
into the Market Square is like stepping back into the 13th cabbage) and Pierniki gingerbreads. Yum.
century, although much of the town has been rebuilt having
been demolished in the 1800s.
Gdańsk – Situated on the Baltic coast, Gdańsk is Poland’s
fourth biggest city, full of Dutch style buildings after the I am loving teaching in Poland -
World Wars. Gdańsk is a huge industrial centre for
the students definitely make it
Poland, so there is need for teachers with business English
knowledge and experience. worthwhile! The language barrier can
be challenging, especially with the young
Destination Types & Weather children, but it makes it all the more
exciting as each day is different and
We can’t say enough great things about Poland! The
country has an unfair reputation when it comes to the
can be full of surprises!
weather, but the reality is so different. Yes, the winters are Lisa Troy Read more...
very cold, but this is typical in Europe, and Poland becomes
even more beautiful in the snow! Plus, the snow means the
slopes are even better for skiing!
TEFL Here If...
You’re ready to embrace the Eastern European lifestyle, you
want to practice your skiing moves on the slopes and you
love a hearty soup!
So… ready to get yourself TEFLing abroad?
Check out internationally recognised
TEFL courses today!
15
16. South
Korea s
ing live e
Having English Changanguag
language skills has become with l
increasingly important for
professional Koreans.
Both wages and demand I'm an English teacher in Jeju! And I
love it, which makes the wait completely
for TEFL teachers are high, so worth it. I've climbed Halla Mountain,
been to the Jeju Five Day Market, moved
it’s a great choice, especially house, bought some warm clothes, explored
for first time teachers. the beaches, been to a Buddhist temple,
climbed another mountain, had a party,
drunk too much soju, visited a couple of
Training & Experience museums and eaten a lot of good food!
Elizabeth Taverner Read more...
There is such a high demand for English teachers in South
Korea that Western tourists are often approached by locals
to teach them privately! While those opportunities are great,
you’ll need to get recognised training to get the best jobs at
the best schools. And the competition is pretty fierce too, so Education Required
you’ll need to get at least 120 hours of TEFL training with a
recognised course provider. A university degree is essential to get a work visa and teach
English in South Korea. As always, it is highly recommended
Of our courses, the EDI CertTEFL, the 120 Hour Online TEFL
that you take this seriously.
Course, and the 140 Hour Combined TEFL Course are
probably your best bets.
Teaching Types & Opportunities
It can sometimes seem that learning English is something of
a national obsession. Early mornings in most major cities see
a pre-rush-hour-rush-hour as students and business people
head off for early morning lessons. Universities demand that
all students pass an English proficiency test before offering
them a place. And the school holidays see huge numbers
of students signing up to join English classes at private
language institutes.
There are countless hagwans in Seoul, Busan and in pretty
much any other city across the country. You’ll need a
university degree to get your working visa, and although
there are employers who will hire untrained teachers, a
recognised TEFL qualification will make finding work with a
reputable school a lot easier.
Just a typical Friday
16 night in South Korea
17. Money Matters... You’ve Won!
Currency: The official currency of South Korea is the South
Korean Won.
Salary & Perks: Usually, you will earn 2,000,000 won
per month on a 12 month contact. Sometimes return airfare,
free accommodations and other extras will be included. You
can always try and negotiate better wages depending on
your experience.
Cost of Living: South Korea is one of the few TEFL
Boys will
destinations where you can save some serious money as the
cost of living is very low and the salaries are high. A really
be boys...
nice meal can cost as little as 5,000 won… that’s just US$4!
Top Cities
Food
Seoul – Home to over 10 million people. It is South Korea’s
capital, and its most important centre for commerce and Kimchi, Noodles, Banchan… you name it! Korean food is
industry. The opportunities for teaching in Seoul are many most noted for its many side dishes accompanying a rice
and varied with language schools and institutes scattered base.
across the country.
Foods to try:
Busan – South Korea’s second city. The number of TEFL
Haemultang… a live seafood soup! In this dish, the raw
jobs in the city is second only to Seoul, and due to its
seafood is cooked in a very hot soup as it is brought to the
position on the coast it enjoys a more comfortable climate
table and it’s quite delicious! Gejang is also another bit of
than many of the inland cities.
raw seafood, as you’ll eat raw crab with a bit of seasoning
Gwangju – Sits amid stunning countryside in the on it.
agricultural region of Jeolla. It is also home to a number
of thriving industries and universities. The opportunities for
teaching English are wide and varied, including TEFL jobs in
universities and language schools across the country.
This year has been the
Destination Types & Weather best of my life. I love
Winters are pretty cold with occasional rain or snow.
Korea. I love the people.
Summers are lovely and hot with the majority of annual The culture, the mix of
rainfall occurring between late June-July – the monsoon traditional and modern, the
season. Spring is warm and runs from late Mar-May. guys and the fashions, the
Autumn from Sep-Nov is warm & the most pleasant time of
the year.
food and mostly, my students.
Sophie Roberts Read more...
TEFL Here If...
You’re looking to not only fund your travels abroad but
also save a bit of cash! South Korea is well known for
offering TEFLers a more than decent wage, so it’s the perfect
destination if money is one of your main TEFL motivations!
So… ready to get yourself TEFLing abroad?
Check out internationally recognised
TEFL courses today!
e
chitectur
s prehistoric ar C!
Korea ha 30,000B 17
datin g back to
18. Vietnam
GOOOOOD MORNING
VIETNAM! It’s Asia Jim, but
not as we know it.* From
honking motorcycle horns on
her!
crazy intersections to chilling
Good morning teac
out in a hammock, Vietnam
is known to have some of the
most beautiful beaches in the
world, and they’re still relative- I really like teaching
ly unknown… so get in there here in Vietnam and
while you can! never having been out of
*If you don’t get the reference, get yourself watching an
Europe before, Hanoi is a
episode of Star Trek ASAP! hidden gem just begging to
Training & Experience be explored.
Vietnam’s tourism is fast catching up with its next-door
Briona Cable Read more...
neighbour, Thailand as more and more people are looking
at Vietnam as their TEFL destination of choice. This is mainly
due to the low living costs and the amazing variety of tourist
hotspots to visit over the weekends. Getting ahead of the Education Required
game with plenty of TEFL training, particularly bolting on
A degree is a requirement to get a work visa and teach in
specialist modules such as Teaching with Limited Resources
Vietnam. While there’s a huge demand for teachers and
and Teaching Large Classes. This will give you an idea of
many travellers on tourist visas get approached to teach
what teaching in a South East Asian classroom is like. Any
privately, i-to-i does not condone this. You want to be really
previous experience will always help you get the best jobs
careful and make sure you follow the rules!
but it’s absolutely not a necessity.
Teaching Types & Opportunities
Education in Vietnam is held in high esteem, and one that
all in Vietnam strive to benefit from. The support of TEFL
teachers is critical to continue providing the most basic of
education to thousands of students who are now able to
benefit from the free primary system.
In Vietnam, education from age 6 to 11 is free (in theory),
universally accessible and mandatory.
Ha Long Bay
18
19. Money Matters... Dong, Dong,
Dong!
Currency: The local currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese
dong (VND) Bank notes come in denominations of 200,
500, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000,
100,000 and 500,000!
Salary & Perks: You can expect to earn up to around
18,000,000 VND per month and many teachers take on
additional classes out-of-hours for 315,000 VND to 525,000
VND an hour.
What's for lunch?
Cost of Living: Salaries aren’t high, but neither is the
cost of living, so you’ll earn enough to get by and have a
fantastic experience at the same time. So, once you’ve taken
into account the low montly cost for your apartment, you’ll
still be able to get a nutritious breakfast of Pho Bo (Hanoi
Destination Types & Weather
Beef Soup), hop on a bus to explore a new city and then
finish off the adventure with a few glasses of Bia Hoi! In Vietnam is a great destination throughout the year. The north
other words... your TEFL wages will stretch far! has two seasons; wet with cool, damp winters between
April and October; then dry hot summer weather between
December and February. The south tends to be very humid
Top Cities and wet between May and November, and the humidity
continues as the rain dries up between December and April.
Hanoi – Hanoi has served as Vietnam’s capital for almost
a thousand years and is a rapidly developing city. There is
still a lot of evidence of its traditional charm too with plenty Food
of pagodas and temples. There is a less hectic pace of life in
Hanoi than Ho Chi Minh. Vietnamese cuisine is delicious, with a great variety to
choose from. There are said to be nearly 500 different
Ho Chi Minh – A bustling, dynamic and industrious traditional dishes that include exotic meats and fantastic
centre, Ho Chi Minh is the largest city in the country. This vegetarian options - all at ridiculously low prices! The
is where Vietnam meets the Western world with big hotels, staple of Vietnamese cuisine is plain white rice served with
banks, neon lights and a whole lot of character. Despite this vegetables, fish, meat, spices and sauces.
cosmopolitan image, you can still find a fantastic bowl of
noodle soup at the side of the road for pennies or a gourmet Things to try:
meal still for a lot less than you would pay anywhere else. Pho is the Vietnamese name for noodle
Hoi An – On the coast of the South China Sea, Hoi An soup which is eaten at all times of the day
is home to around 130,000 people. It’s a large tourist and is especially popular at breakfast
destination with a laid back vibe that entices backpackers time. Also worth sampling is che, which
of all kinds. Therefore, locals are always in need of English is a cold, refreshing sweet drink made
teachers to meet the demand tourism provides. of sweetened black bean, green bean,
mung bean or corn. This is served in a
glass with ice and sweet coconut milk.
I have been in Hanoi for 4 weeks now. I am
TEFL Here If...
teaching in a nursery school part-time and You like playing chicken while crossing the
teaching i-to-i with 3 students. The school road! If you like a laid back lifestyle, like to
is fun and hard work but more rewarding than haggle over goods and don’t mind dressing
I was expecting. Life here is very different in a modest way to fit in with the locals,
but my income £200 a week is pretty good Vietnam will be perfect for you!
considering the cost of living. I found an So… ready to get yourself
apartment for £220 a month and have been TEFLing abroad? Check out
doing some short trips. internationally recognised
TEFL courses today!
Sean Usher Read more...
19
20. Turkey
Turkey’s desire to join the
s
European Union has led to a udent
huge increase in the number Eager St
of English learners, so you
can TEFL in the many state
schools and English language Turkey is a marvellously rich country in
institutes springing up around many aspects. In addition to the history
and cuisine, Turkey is a country full of
the country. natural beauty. With turquoise blue seas
in quiet beaches to skiing in the winter and
thick pine forests – nature thrives! A truly
Training & Experience unique gem in the Mediterranean, and the
only country which sits on both Europe and
Turkey has become one of the Middle East/Europe’s top Asia. A definite must visit!
TEFL destinations with a high demand for English teachers
Naz
in both state schools and language institutes. However, the
level of professionalism in the TEFL industry has increased
considerably in recent years, so it’s in your best interest to
have at least 120 hours of recognised TEFL training. Any Education Required
experience will always help you get the best jobs but it’s
absolutely not a necessity. A university degree is required to get your work visa. If you
do not have a degree, some employers may request that
So, check out the EDI CertTEFL, the 120 Hour Online TEFL
you enter on a tourist visa and continue renewing it, but you
Course, and the 140 Hour Combined TEFL Course
should be cautious of these types of employers. As usual,
i-to-i strongly recommends that you follow the rules and are
very careful!
Teaching Types & Opportunities
After years of being a slightly ‘Wild West’ TEFL destination,
Turkey has become one of Europe/the Middle East’s (even
the Turkish can’t quite decide!) top destinations! While Turkey
is home to more TEFL teachers from the UK and
Ireland than from anywhere else in the world,
there is no official bias towards these
teachers and there are opportunities
for both North Americans and
Australasians. Over recent years
the level of professionalism in the
country’s TEFL job market has
increased, and you’ll now
struggle to find a decent TEFL job
lies
Turkey Suppnuts! without a university degree and
Fun fact: world's hazel
a TEFL certificate.
20 70% of the
21. Money Matters
Currency: The official currency of Turkey is called the
Turkish lyra which can be abbreviated as TL, TRL or TRY
Salary & Perks: You can expect to earn roughly
1,200TRY to 2,000TRY per month. You can also pick extra
work on weekends and evenings to increase your income.
Cost of Living: The cost of living in Turkey is quite low, so
you can definitely live comfortably on an English teacher’s
salary. A three course meal can be as inexpensive as
Teacher!
20TRY! How do I spell...
Top Cities Food
Istanbul – Often described as East Meets West, Istanbul
Need we say more than shish kebab? Pieces of lamb
gives you the chance to immerse yourself in different cultures
cooked over a charcoal stove… mmm, stop that salivating!
as it’s the only city in the world to sit in two continents. Some
How about doner kebab? Another incredible lamb-based
might say this gives Istanbul a remarkable split personality
dish, where the lamb is cooked on a skewer parallel to a
when it comes to the TEFL world!
hot grill. There’s also Istanbul pilaf if you’ve had enough of
Ankara – Ankara is Turkey’s capital and home to many of lamb! Turkish cuisine (from your fresh dolmas to your rich
its key economic, educational and political institutions. Other baklava pastries) is absolutely delicious, so you’re in for a lot
than Istanbul, Ankara is Turkey’s biggest TEFL job market and of Turkish treats here!
offers ample opportunity for foreign TEFL teachers.
Foods to try:
Izmir – Izmir is home to Turkey’s second largest port and is
If you like the shish kebab, maybe you’ll be interested in
a major tourist destination with over 1million annual visitors.
trying kokorec, lamb intestines grilled over charcoal! You can
The city has lots of private language schools and offers
wash it down with ayran, a cold yogurt based drink with just
plenty of opportunity to teach English.
a pinch of salt!
Destination Types & Weather TEFL Here If...
Central Turkey has bitterly cold winters and hot summers, You’re looking for 12 month contracts, free accommodation
with very little yearly rainfall. Around the coastal regions and the potential to have your flight costs reimbursed! Yes
however, winters are warmer and summers are very warm! please!
Make the choice between packing your umbrella and your
So… ready to get yourself TEFLing abroad?
sunglasses depending on which region you find work.
Check out internationally recognised TEFL
courses today!
...
ish delight
A rea l Turk I know! I know!
21
22. Brazil
Samba samba! Brazilians
have a strong family bond
and families are traditionally
large in size with many o!
m, let's g
extended family members. OK tea
Brazilians have a friendly,
energetic nature and share an I can honestly say that I have had some
enthusiasm for celebrations! really interesting and unique experiences
teaching in Brazil. Although I went to
Brazil to teach what I found was that I
Training & Experience was really the student not only learning about life in
another culture but learning about myself, about my
Brazil is definitely the dream TEFL destination for many own strengths and weaknesses and about stretching
travellers. While the demand for English teachers is my limits, taking myself out of my comfort zone and
high, TEFL training is really important in order to be challenging myself.
competitive in the job market. There are many jobs for
Hiten Bhatt
unqualified teachers; however, TEFL training will increase
your opportunities and ensure you’re prepared for life in
the classroom. If you have teaching experience, a basic
20 Hour Classroom TEFL Course or 60 Hour Online TEFL
Course can suffice. However, if you have little experience, Education Required
you’ll want to specialise your skills on a top course, like the
EDI CertTEFL or the 140 Hour Combined TEFL Course. You do not need to have a university degree to get a work
visa for Brazil.
Teaching Types & Opportunities
Brazilian language schools can see hiring foreign nationals
to teach English as an expensive option; however, that
doesn’t mean it’s impossible to find work. You can find
opportunities teaching in language schools, teaching
privately and teaching families. Your career in Brazil is what
you make of it, so definitely start researching! Your first
step? Chat to TEFLers in the Brazil group on Chalkboard to
network and get advice..
On a lunch break!
22
23. Money Matters... Keep it Real!
Currency: The official currency of Brazil is called the real.
Its sign is R$ and the abbreviation is BRL. The real is divided
into 100 centavos.
Salary & Perks: Salaries in Brazil can range from 1,500
real to 3,000 real. You’re likely to earn on the higher end if
have experience and are teaching in the bigger cities.
Cost of Living: The cost of living in Brazil is very low! For Making lifelong
as little as 25 real, you can get a three course meal! friends
Top Cities
Food
Rio de Janeiro – Rio de Janeiro is Brazil’s top TEFL
destination with a huge number of people taking English There are plenty of different types of food… ranging from
lessons in state schools and private language institutes. TEFL meat and seafood to rice and beans, so get ready for some
here between January and March to be on hand for the Rio serious grubbing! Acaraje, a popular dish served in street
Carnival! markets, is a fried ball of shrimp, black-eyed peas and
onions. It’s definitely one to try when you get the chance!
Sao Paolo – Sao Paulo is the largest city in Brazil, seat of Feijoada is a very traditional stew with black beans and
the Brazilian Stock Exchange and home to the headquarters smoked meats and goes really well with a Caipirinha… that
of over 60% of the country’s top international businesses. Its is if you’re a lover of rum! Last but not least is acai, a berry-
position as the country’s leading economic hub means there like fruit that exists in the western world as a powder mix! In
is a huge demand for TEFL teachers with Business English Brazil, you can find it on just about every corner!
experience.
Foods to try:
Brasilia – Brasilia is the country’s capital and home to all
of the apparatus of government. It offers experienced TEFL Fancy some shrimp on your pizza? How about Brazilian
teachers a wide variety of opportunities to teach English in barbecue, known as churrasco, where chicken heart is on
language institutes and in the business sector. the menu?
Destination Types & Weather
Overall, Brazil has 5 major climatic regions; equatorial, Olinda is a beautiful town.
tropical, semi-arid, highland tropical and subtropical. Though That's what the name means.
Brazil experiences mainly tropical conditions, the south has "Oh! Beautiful." My students
a more temperate climate even experiencing frosts and
occasional snow falls during winter!
were amused that my name was Linda, so
every time they spoke to me they started
Music is massive throughout Brazil and has many different
styles of Latin music like the bossa nova and tropicalismo.
by saying "Oh Linda." A joke that never
However, it’s the funky beats of the Samba, Carnival sound, got old and sent us all into big smiles.
which is the beat behind the daily life of Brazilians.
Linda Woodland
TEFL Here If...
You are not a wallflower and want to party hard and sleep
later on in life! TEFL here if you want to see the world’s
smallest bikinis and if you have a ‘life’s a beach’ philosophy!
Consider that Brazil rich/poor divide can be difficult to
experience.
So… ready to get yourself TEFLing abroad?
Check out internationally recognised
TEFL courses today!
5th largest
look at the world!
Take a ue in the 23
stat
24. Things We’ve
Learned Along
the Way…
From Us to You!
Toilet paper… Imodium…
A couple of memory
cards… Get those must-
haves packed first!
Okay, now that those are
tucked away in your bags, here
are some other helpful bits to
Getting the less
help you with your TEFL travels. off to a great st on
art!
With years of experience not only teaching abroad but sending
thousands of TEFLers abroad too, we’ve selected the top ten tips
for your TEFL-travels around the world…
• ou don’t need to speak another language!
Y
In fact, you’ll be a stronger teacher if you communicate in
English and create vivid lessons using things from the real
world, such as pictures and objects.
• top packing your life! Never take more bags than the
S
amount of limbs you have! It won’t get you far on your travels
and you won’t have space to bring back everything you
collect along the way!
• et insurance coverage. Travel insurance isn’t the
G
coolest, sexiest topic, but it’s a necessity! If anything goes
wrong during your travels (from losing a bag to hurting
yourself in a crazy game of dodge ball), you want to be
rk my
here I ma work
covered. So, don’t even think about travelling without it!
W '
students
24
25. • earn how to cope with culture shock. Culture
L
shock and homesickness are a natural part of travelling
abroad. If you experience either, try talking to some of
your fellow TEFLers first. Chances are they’ve been through
the same and can offer you comfort and support.
• e prepared for worst case toilet scenarios! A
B
recurring topic when travelling, it’s always worth it to carry
a little wash bag with toilet paper and hand sanitizer.
While this really depends on where you travel, it’s a
worthwhile tip for anywhere in the world… even home!
• mbrace cultural differences! Your experience will
E
be more rewarding if you see cultural differences as a
meaningful challenge and an opportunity to learn about
Such enthusiastic
where you’re living. Remember, you’re not there to criticise students!
or change things!
• hhh… stop talking so much! As a TEFL teacher,
S
the less time you talk the better! You might feel you aren’t
doing your job if you aren’t constantly lecturing, but
students will benefit from practicing what they learn.
• on’t worry… your students won’t be clueless.
D
It is very, very rare that you’ll walk into a classroom filled
with students who haven’t already learned some English.
A couple of decades ago it could have been different but
today most students have had some training.
• earn the local lingo! Take the time to try and learn
L
the local lingo and catchphrases. It can be really fun and
empowering to take on this challenge! If you want to test
drive your new skills, try ordering food at a restaurant or
mmute
even negotiating with a street vendor!
• ry all the weird and wonderful foods! Don’t
T
The morning co
start gagging and turning your nose up - well, you
can sometimes! Trying exotic, new foods is part of the
excitement so get involved!
• tay safe! Remember, you’re in a foreign country and
S
your street smarts may not be that tip top… so be careful
and always use good judgment!
Join TEFL Chalkboard
Want to know what teaching English abroad is like for
real? Join our TEFL community Chalkboard to meet people
who are teaching everywhere from Italy to Indonesia.
Join us now
25
26. You’re One
Step Closer…
So, What’s Next?
You’re one step closer to an incredible TEFL journey
abroad… so get your bags packed, get that
passport renewed and let’s get you going!
Okay… maybe we should take it a wee bit slower. Now that
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ive...
Taking f
Good Luck Happy TEFLing!
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