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JAPAN CHINA SOUTH KOREA THAILAND VIETNAM FRANCE SPAIN POLAND TEACHING ENGLISH ABROAD WITH I-TO-I 1...2...3...smile! Teach Abroad: Top 10 TEFL Destinations
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The Top 10 TEFL Destinations

Nov 10, 2014

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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...
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Page 1: The Top 10 TEFL Destinations

JAPAN

CHINA

SOUTH

KOREA

THAILAND

VIETNAM

FRANCE

SPAIN

POLAND

TEACHINg ENgLISH AbROAD wITH I-TO-I 1...2...3...smile!

Teach Abroad: Top 10 TEFL Destinations

Page 2: The Top 10 TEFL Destinations

Teach Abroad!The Top Ten TEFL HotspotsIf you speak English and want to live and work abroad, you’re in for a treat! In this e-Guide, you’ll find heaps of inspiration and information on the top ten TEFL hotspots around the world. So, with no further ado, let’s get going!

Behind the Scenes First: Why TEFL? Teaching English abroad is not only an incredible way to fund your travels around the world, it’s also a great way to make your mark overseas! English is the global language 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.

With millions of people eager to learn English, it’s time for you to find your dream TEFL destination and start your TEFL adventure abroad!

So… get yourself a drink, get a cushion to rest your bum on and start exploring the top ten TEFL destinations of 2012!

Contents

Introduction 3

Spain 4

France 6

Japan 8

Thailand 10

China 12

Poland 14

South Korea 16

Vietnam 18

Turkey 20

Brazil 22

Things We’ve Learned 24

What’s Next? 26

2

Say cheese!Pose for the camera!

Not a bad view, eh?

Page 3: The Top 10 TEFL Destinations

3Teacher's Pets!

Over the valley and through the hills… We’ve searched high and low to find you the essentials on the most popular TEFL destinations around the world! Some people are happy to travel abroad with zero information about their destination while others want the get whole enchilada when it comes to info! Well, this e-Guide is somewhere in between. You’ll get a great overview of the topics to consider when choosing your TEFL destination but not so much that it will take you all year to read it!

Training & ExperienceWhat do you need? Every employer in every city in every country will be different… so always keep that in mind! However, you can find a few rules of thumb to follow in these sections. Your best bet? Get top TEFL training to make sure you stand out in the crowd!

Education RequiredDon’t worry! Employers don’t expect you to be a mathematician or some literary genius! The education requirements usually boil down to work visa requirements.

Teaching Types & OpportunitiesFrom 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 MattersThe 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!?

Top Cities With many TEFL destinations, you can usually pinpoint a few of the top cities where you’ll find the best jobs and highest pay. Opportunities can exist across the whole country, but this section mentions a few of the most popular cities for you to consider in your job search.

Destination Types & WeatherYou’re only human! The climate and landscape are a fair concept to consider when relocating abroad. If you love hot summers and chilling out at the beach, you’ll need to know it’s there waiting for you!

FoodSome destinations are worth travelling to just for the food! Travelling abroad is not only an eye opening experience… it’s also a great chance to tickle your taste buds with incredible flavours and cuisines. So, enjoy the delights abroad and feel free to try chickens’ feet!

TEFL Here If… Simply put… here’s a fun breakdown of whether you’d love living in this TEFL destination.

So, as always… happy TEFLing!

Everything You’ll Find in the e-Guide!

Page 4: The Top 10 TEFL Destinations

Fancy a lunchtime dip?

Education RequiredIf 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.

If you want to TEFL in Spain, you’re not alone! Spain is one of the most popular TEFL destinations around the world and there are incredible opportunities for you if you’re ready to bask in the sun, enjoy some sangria & make Spain your new home away from home!

Teaching Types & OpportunitiesMany 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 may employ less experienced teachers.

TEFL jobs in Spain can be found in any number of different settings, from state schools and kindergartens to private tuition and language schools.

Spain

Training & ExperienceSpain 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 suggest our top of the range EDI CertTEFL.

Cutest student ever?

Spain might be in a crisis, but the TEFL industry is booming. Spanish people NEED to learn English to help them in the job market, parents are prepared to pay extra for their kids to have a

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. barry O'Leary Read more...

4

Page 5: The Top 10 TEFL Destinations

Pick me! Pick me!

FoodTapas, sangria, paella… Mmm! Spain offers you some incredible flavours in both food and drinks. The best way to sample a lot of different foods is to go for ‘tapas’ with a glass of tinto (red wine)! This is your chance to have loads of different snacks, and it is usually served throughout the day. Food can range from meat delicacies, like roast lamb and beef, to seafood if you’re living along the coast. Paella, one of the most popular foods from Spain, gives you a whole medley of rice, seasoning, vegetables and usually seafood or meat.

Things to try:

There are loads of incredible foods to try. Tortilla Espanola! You’ve probably had eggs, potatoes and onions before… but the Tortilla Espanola combines these tasty foods into one big omelette. It’s not as adventurous as frog legs but 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 hot day (which is most days!)...

TEFL Here If...You thrive in the warm weather and like a laid back lifestyle. It’s also an incredible destination if you want to learn Spanish, as you’ll have the chance to practice all the time!

So… ready to get yourself TEFLing abroad? Check out internationally recognised TEFL courses today!

Destination Types & WeatherEach city has its own unique charm and offers lots of opportunity for people looking to teach English in Spain. Spain is not a place to grow rich and save, but if having a memorable time is more important to you than having loads of cash in the bank, Spain might be the perfect choice.

Spanish weather can vary greatly from region to region. In the north you’ll find mild winters and summers, while the temperatures can be more extreme the further south you travel.

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 - €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.

Cost of Living: The cost of living will vary based on the part of Spain in which you live. In general, the cost of living is reasonable but definitely not cheap. You should expect prices similar to those in the Western world and make sure you avoid the tourist hot spots! If you do your research and know where to eat and hang out, you can have some significant euro savings!

Top CitiesMadrid - Spain’s capital is probably the biggest market for TEFL jobs in the country. It is one of the largest cities in Europe, and as the capital, it is home to many of the country’s largest businesses and educational institutes.

Barcelona - Perhaps Spain’s most feted city and capital of Catalunya, Barcelona is also one of the country’s top TEFL destinations. There’s a well developed TEFL job market in the city and the opportunities to teach English are largely varied. Everyone from language institutes and state schools through to businesses and private clients are looking to learn English from native speakers.

Seville - Seville is the capital of the beautiful southern province of Andalusia. While it doesn’t offer the sheer number of jobs available in Madrid and Barcelona, there is still a well developed TEFL job market and the cost of living is lower, so you can live comfortably on a TEFL teacher’s salary.

Not only am I learning more about Spanish people, getting under the skin of the culture and discovering what it is that makes them

tick, but I'm also enhancing my career, my skills and building something more than simply a 24 hour-a-week TEFL career. will Peach Read more... 5

Page 6: The Top 10 TEFL Destinations

Education RequiredA 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.

Ooh la la! 80 million tourists visit France every year, so they must be doing something right. Get under the skin of this vast and complex country famous for its art, food and berets as you live and work as a TEFL teacher!

Teaching Types & OpportunitiesAs 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.

France

Training & ExperienceA huge TEFL hub for teaching business English, most schools will want to see evidence of a high level of TEFL training. Your best bet for landing a job teaching English in France is to take a level 5 qualification like the EDI CertTEFL. It combines face to face teaching, online tuition and vital experience of teaching real English learners. If you’re budget can’t quite stretch that far check out our 120 Hour Online TEFL Course & the 140 Hour Combined TEFL Course.

I am teaching in north-east France, in a city called Nancy. Fabulous place, where I moved after marrying a French woman ... of course! I did my TEFL course before leaving Australia in December 2007 and have completely enjoyed my change in

career. In Australia I was a senior manager, with some background in training so, because my French is so bad, I realised that the only thing I could conceivably do was teach English. I love the interaction with the students, and the way they are so keen to learn English!

Neil Powell Read more...

J'adore mon TEFL

professeur

Vive la France!

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Page 7: The Top 10 TEFL Destinations

You're not camera shy, are you boys?

FoodTasting the foods of France is one of the other perks of living in this incredible destination (alongside the TEFL experience, of course). You’ve probably already tried a croissant, pain au chocolat or a croque-monsieur… but not in France!

Things to try:

Try every pastry available to you! There are far too many incredible foods to describe, but here’s a quick list to get your mouth salivating: Tarte tartin (apple tart), soupe de 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!

TEFL Here If...You want to sample a new culture while having the comforts of a Western lifestyle. Just make sure you’re motivated to get out there and TEFL to a high standard while make new friends in a bustling environment.

So… ready to get yourself TEFLing abroad? Check out internationally recognised TEFL courses today!

Destination Types & WeatherThe weather is ever changing in France depending on where you are. If you’re in the north, pack a parka. If you’re in the central regions of France, pack sunglasses, decent walking shoes and a decent coat for the colder months. If you’re lucky enough to be in the south, pack your swimwear! It’s club Mediterranean time!

You could be city-based in elegant Paris, sipping coffees in cafes, or strolling through picturesque towns with the sun on your back overlooking vineyards... a tough choice to make!

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 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.

Top CitiesParis - Paris is many people’s dream TEFL job destination, and it’s not hard to see why. It is one of the most beautiful cities on the planet and the opportunities for teaching English in Paris are many and varied.

As living costs can be high, you’ll struggle to save much money unless you land a well-paid job, but the experience of living and working in Paris will more than make up for it!

Lyon - Lyon has a population of around half a million people and is regarded as one of France’s most important economic and business centres. As is often the case, economic success has brought a high demand for people with an understanding of teaching business English.

Montpellier - The southern city of Montpellier is France’s fastest growing city of the last 25 years. This growth has led to an increased demand for TEFL teachers as the city attempts to become a major player in the European economy. There is a fast growing TEFL job market and it is a little less competitive than in other large French cities.

After 16 years spent in England, I decided to go back to France in 2009. I felt like combining my English knowledge with a new career path. I am now an English teacher. I teach privately both students at all levels and adults. I am loving it! The i-to-i TEFL course gave me the confidence I needed.Dominique Papineau

7

Page 8: The Top 10 TEFL Destinations

Japan

8

Education RequiredWith a degree and TEFL qualification, you should be able to find a TEFL job quite easily!

Mix a little sci-fi futurism with plenty of technological innovation, add a dash of traditional culture, throw in a generous helping of the most polite students you’ll meet... and you have the recipe for a perfect TEFL destination, also known as Japan!

Teaching Types & OpportunitiesSince 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.

Training & ExperienceThere’s a huge demand for English teachers in Japan, so the amount of training you require depends on your teaching experience and what you want out of your TEFL 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.

Japan literally does have everything... something for everyone. You can teach in the big cities and have western comforts.

Up to date technology, gizmos and gadget, mixed with hidden shrines and temples.Paul Dixon Read more...

we love Japan

Land of the Rising

Sun...

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Page 9: The Top 10 TEFL Destinations

I worked with 8 different schools of elementary and junior high school grade and enjoyed the highs of spontaneous trips around the country, after school activities with students and making

some of the most fantastic friends ever as well as the lows of trudging to work through hip high snow and sleet and getting lost in the mountains. Throw in a few festivals, some seriously good food and some close encounters with mountain monkeys and snakes and you have an entirely awe inspiring time from my life.

Carly Adams Read more...

9

Konnichiwa!

FoodRice is one of the most important ingredients in most Japanese foods, so if you don’t like rice, good luck! Sushi (rice wrapped in seaweed), fried rice (a variety of stir fried vegetables and meat with rice), onigiri (rice balls wrapped in sea weed), domburi (a bowl of cooked rice with toppings like tempura) and kayu (a warm porridge) are popular rice-based dishes. Japan also offers you incredible marinated vegetables, meat dishes and seafood galore.

Things to try:

Weird and wonderful foods await you! Natto are fermented soybeans with a pungent smell, but these slimy beans are usually served with your breakfast of hot rice and sometimes a raw egg. Mozuku is a hairy, stringy type of seaweed and is very nutritious! Lastly… shishamo! It’s a skinny little fish jam-packed with crunchy eggs! You just have to rip the head off and eat everything inside of it!

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!

Destination Types & WeatherJapanese winters are sunny and mild in the south with temperatures steadily getting colder and snow falling heavier the further north you go. Spring and autumn time are perfectly pleasant while summer varies from warm to extremely hot. Rainfall in Japan is fairly consistent throughout the year, with June and July as the main rainy seasons.

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 North America. Eating at local restaurants and shopping at cheap markets (100 Yen Shops) can really help your yen go a long way!

Top CitiesTokyo – The capital city and the shining star of TEFL destinations! There are plenty of TEFL opportunities at the many language schools and institutes across the city. Many foreigners live and work in the Roppongi district, so it’s a good place to start looking for a job and a good place to rest your head.

Kobe – Kobe is regarded as Japan’s most attractive and cosmopolitan city, sat on a steep hill overlooking Osaka Bay. The rise in international businesses in this area means there is a constant demand for TEFL teachers with business English knowledge.

Kyoto – A Japanese urban jungle of types, what lies beneath modern Kyoto is ancient in heart and soul. With 17 World Heritage sites, over 1,000 temples and plenty of authentic Japanese cultural experiences, Kyoto satisfies all culture vultures!

Page 10: The Top 10 TEFL Destinations

Thailand

10

Education RequiredRule number one… a university degree is a must to get a work visa and legally teach English in Thailand. i-to-i strongly recommends you do not attempt to work in Thailand without the correct visa, as you can get yourself into some serious trouble. Sometimes there are teaching programmes for people without degrees, so do some research and don’t make any brash decisions! If you’re desperate to make the land of smiles your new home, you can also research voluntary TEFL opportunities in Thailand.

Given its full title, Bangkok has the longest place name in the world: “Krung thep mah-anakhon bovorn ratanakosin mahintharayutthaya mahad-ilok pop noparatratchathani burirom udomratchanivet-mahasathan amornpiman avatarnsathit sakkathattiyavis-nukarmprasit”! Yep, try saying that after a few SangSoms!

Teaching Types & OpportunitiesTourism is huge in Thailand, that’s no surprise, so English teachers are always in demand because of it, good news 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.

Training & ExperienceTo tell you the truth, it’s possible to find a teaching job in Thailand without any TEFL qualification! But the question to ask yourself is… Do you really want to go down that route? Probably not! Thailand is one of the most popular TEFL destinations and with that popularity comes fierce competition for the best jobs with the best pay in the most popular cities. You want to make sure you stand out in the crowd with a top qualification that shows commitment and dedication to TEFL. Additionally, without any TEFL training, what would you do during your first hour… day… or week in the classroom?

So, check out these internationally recognised TEFL courses and choose the right one for you! Remember, you can request a free consultation with an advisor to learn more!

Also, if the idea of a supported package appeals to you, check out our Thailand internship opportunities. With 24/7 in country support, monthly spending allowance and free accommodation, it’s a great way to start your TEFL journey.

I love this country. It was the best place, I feel, for me to come as a new teacher and new to living abroad. The people truly are very friendly and there are plenty of westerners here that you don't feel too overwhelmed by culture shock (although, I'm trying to escape that now!). Jess watson Read more...

Miss T showing off

her moves!

Page 11: The Top 10 TEFL Destinations

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Look at what we did teacher!

FoodWhere do you begin with Thailand? A favourite cuisine in the West, Thai food is even more delicious in Thailand. Don’t be afraid of the markets... You’ll find the best foods there! If you love coconut milk, spices and incredibly rich flavours, you’re in for a LOT of Thai treats. From tom yam kung (spicy prawn soup) to tom kha hai (chicken in coconut soup) to phanaeng (meat in coconut cream), get your appetite ready!

Things to try:

It’s mind over matter! Kung ten is a very unique feasting 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!

TEFL Here If...You see quality of life as more important than how much you earn. You need to be non-confrontational also in Thailand; it’s not a place for the hotheaded and impatient, as it’s important to be respectful of local culture. Don’t TEFL here if you like pointing at things with your feet; that is an absolute no no in Thailand…

So… ready to get yourself TEFLing abroad? Check out internationally recognised TEFL courses today!

Destination Types & WeatherThailand puts the ‘hu’ in humid! Humidity exists throughout the country, so come prepared for this by perhaps leaving your oven door open when cooking! Destination types vary from intense city-based locations in central Bangkok to a hut near the beach in Chumpon! Pack your sunglasses and baby wipes!

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.

Cost of Living: In a nutshell? The cost of living in Thailand is very cheap so your salary should go very far! A two 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!

Top CitiesBangkok – A little obvious perhaps, but here’s why Bangkok is a top city. There are thousands of language schools across the city, as well as TEFL jobs in universities, 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.

Chiang Mai – Chiang Mai’s tourism industry is huge, and people come from all over Thailand to learn English and tap into this industry in hopes of a brighter future and higher income. Chiang Mai is stunning!

Phuket – THE place you think of when it comes to Thailand’s glorious beaches. A massive tourist destination, there’s a real need for the locals to speak English in order to make the most of tourism in Phuket.. So, you should be in demand in Phuket! This is also a perfect location for a weekend beach break on a nearby deserted beach…

I did my TEFL with i-to-i, booked a flight and

came out to Thailand to try my hand at teaching.

No regrets at all, best

thing I ever did!gareth Openshaw Read more...

Page 12: The Top 10 TEFL Destinations

great for a Sunday afternoon stroll...

Education RequiredChina can be a tricky one! To legally work in China, you require a university degree for work visa purposes. However, many programmes exist to enable non-degree holders to live and work in China. The Teach in China Internship is a great example as it’s open to people educated to the age of 18. You can learn more about the Teach in China Internship here.

If the 20th Century was an American Century, then the 21st looks set to belong to China. But rather than making everyone else learn Chinese, they’ve decided to learn English! Which is great news for TEFL teachers...

Teaching Types & OpportunitiesTEFL jobs in China can be found in a number of different settings, from state schools and kindergartens to one-to-one tuition and private language schools. The rise in demand for business 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.

China

Training & ExperienceA respectable TEFL qualification can go a long way! China is one of the biggest TEFL hotspots with a huge demand for English teachers… but experience and training counts for a lot. If you want to get one of the best paid jobs, you’ll need top TEFL training and/or teaching experience. Remember, i-to-i TEFL offers you internationally recognised TEFL courses as well as internships in China to give you solid teaching experience!

My experience in China so far has been one of the best and also one of the most interesting things that I have done. Chinese hospitality is second to none, in

the school where I am currently teaching we live in a

building with other teaching staff. we have home-made

food brought to us, we get invited to their

homes and have currently just came back

from Sanming (South China) which is a teacher’s home around 4 hours drive away

from where we live.

Laura Peters Read more...

12

Hard day at

the office :-)

Page 13: The Top 10 TEFL Destinations

Ni Hao!

FoodDishes vary between regions, but typically there is a great variety from restaurants to street stalls. Chinese food is traditionally based on opposites, which is a fundamental concept in Chinese philosophy. It is not unusual to find hot and cold food paired together along with pickled and fresh or spicy and mild food.

Things to try:

Skewered bugs, butterfly cocoons and rats from the night markets. Also, the ‘thousand-year-old eggs’ are not for the faint-hearted! Coated in red earth, garden lime, salt, wood ash and tea, these eggs and stored in airtight containers for 100 days!

TEFL Here If...You want to sample a new culture whilst having the relative safety of Western escape routes if things get intense. You’ve got to be motivated to get out there and TEFL to a high standard and make new friends in a bustling environment.

So… ready to get yourself TEFLing abroad? Check out internationally recognised TEFL courses today!

Destination Types & WeatherAn umbrella… some flip-flops… a few bikinis… a big parka… stop throwing things in your bag! China is a massive country with a very diverse landscape, so the 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!

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 more experienced teachers. Sometimes your employers will also offer you accommodation, flight reimbursements and bonuses!

Cost of Living: The cost of living and your lifestyle choices go hand in hand! If you’re not looking for a 29th story penthouse in the centre of Beijing, you should be fine! China can be a really cheap TEFL destination for the westerner, especially if you choose to live like a local, using local transport and going to incredible local restaurants. A bottle of water can cost less than 5RMB… roughly 15 US cents!

Top CitiesBeijing – An obvious choice really. The capital city is home to around 22 million people with more people streaming in every day. It is one of the key centres for international 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.

Shanghai – The city boasts the world’s largest cargo port and is considered to be the most important commercial center in mainland China. These factors, and also its status as a tourist destination, have fuelled a huge demand for English teachers - especially those with experience of, or certification in, teaching business English.

Kunming – The capital of Yunnan, Kunming is home to 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

have now been living and working

in China for over a year....13 1/2

months now to be precise! where has the

time gone......as I sit and contemplate all that

has happened in the last year it is with joy

and happiness.....this just confirms my

thoughts that making this big move

was the best thing I've ever done!

Kate Fennell Read more...

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Page 14: The Top 10 TEFL Destinations

Poland

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Education RequiredA university degree is required to obtain a work visa, so don’t take this lightly. While programmes may exist for non-degree holders, the general rule is that a degree is necessary. As always, this is a guide so feel free to conduct your own research!

Incredibly beautiful (and about to hit the big time in 2012 as it plays host to the Euro 2012), Poland is crammed full of stunning scenery, eager students and easy transport links to help you see more of the sights it has on offer... Plus the beer is still cheap! Bonus!

Teaching Types & OpportunitiesWith 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!

Training & ExperienceA TEFL certificate is your ticket to Poland, as you’ll usually need a reputable qualification to obtain a work visa (even if you have an EU passport). With the demand for English teachers on the rise, it’s recommended that you get top TEFL training to really stand out in the market. Experience 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.

Due to the visa requirements and the high level of competition, you’ll probably need a top-end TEFL qualification like our EDI CertTEFL or the 140 Hour Combined TEFL Course to have a good chance of landing a decent teaching job in Poland.

Having read one too many scathing posts on the internet, this came as something of a surprise. Poland, beautiful?! Huh?! but it really is! Over the past few weeks, I've visited several

towns, each one built around a central 'Rynek' (main square), all of which are unfailingly beautiful. You find yourself gravitating back to them constantly.briona Cable Read more...

Dine out in

Polish style!

Krakow Cloth Hall is one of the oldest

shopping malls in the world!

Page 15: The Top 10 TEFL Destinations

15

Time to hit the markets!

FoodVegetarians and cabbage haters – steer clear! Just kidding! While the diet in Poland relies fairly heavily on chicken, pork and cabbage to bulk up dishes like stews and soups, Polish food is ‘hearty and nutritious’... you can’t go wrong with those words. Poles take a lot of pride in their food and festive meals, so it can sometimes take DAYS to prepare!

Things to try:

Warm your bones with a hearty bowl (see…hearty, we can’t stay away from the word!) of Borscht, a type of purple soup made of tomato and beetroot. Don’t leave without trying babka cake, pickled cucumber, Sauerkraut (pickled cabbage) and Pierniki gingerbreads. Yum.

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!

Destination Types & WeatherWe can’t say enough great things about Poland! The country has an unfair reputation when it comes to the weather, but the reality is so different. Yes, the winters are 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!

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! Shared accommodation situated within easy reach of city centres can be around 2,000zl per month which may even include bills.

Top CitiesKraków – It almost goes without saying that Kraków is the premier destination for TEFLers in Poland. Rated as one of the most beautiful cities by many visitors, there are so many stunning buildings, it’s easy to lose count. Rynek Glowny is well worth spending a little extra on a hot drink and watching the world go by. Its tourist status ensures there is constant demand for TEFL teachers.

Warsaw – Living in Warsaw will feel like living on a movie set entitled ‘Mediaeval Old Town’ and would be your chance to live in a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Royal Castle is the most prominent tourist attraction and stepping into the Market Square is like stepping back into the 13th 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 World Wars. Gdańsk is a huge industrial centre for Poland, so there is need for teachers with business English knowledge and experience.

I am loving teaching in Poland -

the students definitely make it

worthwhile! The language barrier can

be challenging, especially with the young

children, but it makes it all the more

exciting as each day is different and

can be full of surprises!

Lisa Troy Read more...

Page 16: The Top 10 TEFL Destinations

Just a typical Friday night in South Korea

South Korea

16

Education RequiredA university degree is essential to get a work visa and teach English in South Korea. As always, it is highly recommended that you take this seriously.

Having English language skills has become increasingly important for professional Koreans. Both wages and demand for TEFL teachers are high, so it’s a great choice, especially for first time teachers.

Teaching Types & OpportunitiesIt 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.

Training & ExperienceThere 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 you’ll need to get at least 120 hours of TEFL training with a recognised course provider.

Of our courses, the EDI CertTEFL, the 120 Hour Online TEFL Course, and the 140 Hour Combined TEFL Course are probably your best bets.

I'm an English teacher in Jeju! And I love it, which makes the wait completely worth it. I've climbed Halla Mountain, been to the Jeju Five Day Market, moved

house, bought some warm clothes, explored the beaches, been to a buddhist temple, climbed another mountain, had a party, drunk too much soju, visited a couple of museums and eaten a lot of good food!

Elizabeth Taverner Read more...

Changing lives

with language

Page 17: The Top 10 TEFL Destinations

17

boys will be boys...

FoodKimchi, Noodles, Banchan… you name it! Korean food is most noted for its many side dishes accompanying a rice base.

Foods to try:

Haemultang… a live seafood soup! In this dish, the raw seafood is cooked in a very hot soup as it is brought to the table and it’s quite delicious! Gejang is also another bit of raw seafood, as you’ll eat raw crab with a bit of seasoning on it.

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!

Destination Types & WeatherWinters are pretty cold with occasional rain or snow. Summers are lovely and hot with the majority of annual rainfall occurring between late June-July – the monsoon season. Spring is warm and runs from late Mar-May. Autumn from Sep-Nov is warm & the most pleasant time of the year.

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 destinations where you can save some serious money as the cost of living is very low and the salaries are high. A really nice meal can cost as little as 5,000 won… that’s just US$4!

Top CitiesSeoul – Home to over 10 million people. It is South Korea’s capital, and its most important centre for commerce and industry. The opportunities for teaching in Seoul are many and varied with language schools and institutes scattered across the country.

Busan – South Korea’s second city. The number of TEFL jobs in the city is second only to Seoul, and due to its position on the coast it enjoys a more comfortable climate than many of the inland cities.

Gwangju – Sits amid stunning countryside in the 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 best of my life. I love Korea. I love the people.

The culture, the mix of traditional and modern, the guys and the fashions, the food and mostly, my students.Sophie Roberts Read more...

Korea has prehistoric architecture

dating back to 30,000bC!

Page 18: The Top 10 TEFL Destinations

Vietnam

18Ha Long bay

I really like teaching here in Vietnam and never having been out of

Europe before, Hanoi is a hidden gem just begging to be explored.briona Cable Read more...

good morning teacher!

Education RequiredA degree is a requirement to get a work visa and teach in Vietnam. While there’s a huge demand for teachers and many travellers on tourist visas get approached to teach privately, i-to-i does not condone this. You want to be really careful and make sure you follow the rules!

GOOOOOD MORNING VIETNAM! It’s Asia Jim, but not as we know it.* From honking motorcycle horns on crazy intersections to chilling out in a hammock, Vietnam is known to have some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and they’re still relative-ly unknown… so get in there while you can!*If you don’t get the reference, get yourself watching an episode of Star Trek ASAP!

Teaching Types & OpportunitiesEducation 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.

Training & ExperienceVietnam’s tourism is fast catching up with its next-door 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 game with plenty of TEFL training, particularly bolting on specialist modules such as Teaching with Limited Resources and Teaching Large Classes. This will give you an idea of what teaching in a South East Asian classroom is like. Any previous experience will always help you get the best jobs but it’s absolutely not a necessity.

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what's for lunch?

I have been in Hanoi for 4 weeks now. I am teaching in a nursery school part-time and teaching i-to-i with 3 students. The school is fun and hard work but more rewarding than

I was expecting. Life here is very different but my income £200 a week is pretty good considering the cost of living. I found an apartment for £220 a month and have been doing some short trips.

Sean Usher Read more...

FoodVietnamese cuisine is delicious, with a great variety to choose from. There are said to be nearly 500 different traditional dishes that include exotic meats and fantastic vegetarian options - all at ridiculously low prices! The staple of Vietnamese cuisine is plain white rice served with vegetables, fish, meat, spices and sauces.

Things to try:

Pho is the Vietnamese name for noodle soup which is eaten at all times of the day and is especially popular at breakfast time. Also worth sampling is che, which is a cold, refreshing sweet drink made of sweetened black bean, green bean, mung bean or corn. This is served in a glass with ice and sweet coconut milk.

TEFL Here If...You like playing chicken while crossing the road! If you like a laid back lifestyle, like to haggle over goods and don’t mind dressing in a modest way to fit in with the locals, Vietnam will be perfect for you!

So… ready to get yourself TEFLing abroad? Check out internationally recognised TEFL courses today!

Destination Types & WeatherVietnam is a great destination throughout the year. The north 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 and wet between May and November, and the humidity continues as the rain dries up between December and April.

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.

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 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 other words... your TEFL wages will stretch far!

Top CitiesHanoi – 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 of pagodas and temples. There is a less hectic pace of life in Hanoi than Ho Chi Minh.

Ho Chi Minh – A bustling, dynamic and industrious centre, Ho Chi Minh is the largest city in the country. This is where Vietnam meets the Western world with big hotels, banks, neon lights and a whole lot of character. Despite this cosmopolitan image, you can still find a fantastic bowl of noodle soup at the side of the road for pennies or a gourmet meal still for a lot less than you would pay anywhere else.

Hoi An – On the coast of the South China Sea, Hoi An is home to around 130,000 people. It’s a large tourist destination with a laid back vibe that entices backpackers of all kinds. Therefore, locals are always in need of English teachers to meet the demand tourism provides.

Page 20: The Top 10 TEFL Destinations

Turkey

20

Education RequiredA university degree is required to get your work visa. If you do not have a degree, some employers may request that you enter on a tourist visa and continue renewing it, but you should be cautious of these types of employers. As usual, i-to-i strongly recommends that you follow the rules and are very careful!

Turkey’s desire to join the European Union has led to a huge increase in the number of English learners, so you can TEFL in the many state schools and English language institutes springing up around the country.

Teaching Types & OpportunitiesAfter 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 without a university degree and a TEFL certificate.

Training & ExperienceTurkey has become one of the Middle East/Europe’s top TEFL destinations with a high demand for English teachers 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 experience will always help you get the best jobs but it’s absolutely not a necessity.

So, check out the EDI CertTEFL, the 120 Hour Online TEFL Course, and the 140 Hour Combined TEFL Course

Eager Students

Fun fact: Turkey Supplies

70% of the world's hazelnuts!

Turkey is a marvellously rich country in many aspects. In addition to the history and cuisine, Turkey is a country full of natural beauty. with turquoise blue seas

in quiet beaches to skiing in the winter and thick pine forests ’ nature thrives! A truly unique gem in the Mediterranean, and the only country which sits on both Europe and Asia. A definite must visit!

Naz

Page 21: The Top 10 TEFL Destinations

Teacher! How do I spell...

FoodNeed we say more than shish kebab? Pieces of lamb cooked over a charcoal stove… mmm, stop that salivating! How about doner kebab? Another incredible lamb-based dish, where the lamb is cooked on a skewer parallel to a hot grill. There’s also Istanbul pilaf if you’ve had enough of lamb! Turkish cuisine (from your fresh dolmas to your rich baklava pastries) is absolutely delicious, so you’re in for a lot of Turkish treats here!

Foods to try:

If you like the shish kebab, maybe you’ll be interested in trying kokorec, lamb intestines grilled over charcoal! You can wash it down with ayran, a cold yogurt based drink with just a pinch of salt!

TEFL Here If...You’re looking for 12 month contracts, free accommodation and the potential to have your flight costs reimbursed! Yes please!

So… ready to get yourself TEFLing abroad? Check out internationally recognised TEFL courses today!

Destination Types & WeatherCentral Turkey has bitterly cold winters and hot summers, with very little yearly rainfall. Around the coastal regions however, winters are warmer and summers are very warm! Make the choice between packing your umbrella and your sunglasses depending on which region you find work.

Money MattersCurrency: 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 20TRY!

Top CitiesIstanbul – Often described as East Meets West, Istanbul gives you the chance to immerse yourself in different cultures as it’s the only city in the world to sit in two continents. Some might say this gives Istanbul a remarkable split personality when it comes to the TEFL world!

Ankara – Ankara is Turkey’s capital and home to many of its key economic, educational and political institutions. Other than Istanbul, Ankara is Turkey’s biggest TEFL job market and offers ample opportunity for foreign TEFL teachers.

Izmir – Izmir is home to Turkey’s second largest port and is a major tourist destination with over 1million annual visitors. The city has lots of private language schools and offers plenty of opportunity to teach English.

A real Turkish delight...I know! I know! 21

Page 22: The Top 10 TEFL Destinations

On a lunch break!

Brazil

22

Education RequiredYou do not need to have a university degree to get a work visa for Brazil.

Samba samba! Brazilians have a strong family bond and families are traditionally large in size with many extended family members. Brazilians have a friendly, energetic nature and share an enthusiasm for celebrations!

Teaching Types & OpportunitiesBrazilian 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..

Training & ExperienceBrazil is definitely the dream TEFL destination for many travellers. While the demand for English teachers is high, TEFL training is really important in order to be competitive in the job market. There are many jobs for 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, you’ll want to specialise your skills on a top course, like the EDI CertTEFL or the 140 Hour Combined TEFL Course.

I can honestly say that I have had some really interesting and unique experiences teaching in brazil. Although I went to brazil to teach what I found was that I was really the student not only learning about life in another culture but learning about myself, about my own strengths and weaknesses and about stretching my limits, taking myself out of my comfort zone and challenging myself.

Hiten bhatt

OK team, let's go!

Page 23: The Top 10 TEFL Destinations

Take a look at the 5th largest

statue in the world! 23

Making lifelong friends

FoodThere are plenty of different types of food… ranging from meat and seafood to rice and beans, so get ready for some serious grubbing! Acaraje, a popular dish served in street markets, is a fried ball of shrimp, black-eyed peas and onions. It’s definitely one to try when you get the chance! Feijoada is a very traditional stew with black beans and smoked meats and goes really well with a Caipirinha… that is if you’re a lover of rum! Last but not least is acai, a berry-like fruit that exists in the western world as a powder mix! In Brazil, you can find it on just about every corner!

Foods to try:

Fancy some shrimp on your pizza? How about Brazilian barbecue, known as churrasco, where chicken heart is on the menu?

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!

Destination Types & WeatherOverall, Brazil has 5 major climatic regions; equatorial, tropical, semi-arid, highland tropical and subtropical. Though Brazil experiences mainly tropical conditions, the south has a more temperate climate even experiencing frosts and occasional snow falls during winter!

Music is massive throughout Brazil and has many different styles of Latin music like the bossa nova and tropicalismo. However, it’s the funky beats of the Samba, Carnival sound, which is the beat behind the daily life of Brazilians.

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 as little as 25 real, you can get a three course meal!

Top CitiesRio de Janeiro – Rio de Janeiro is Brazil’s top TEFL destination with a huge number of people taking English lessons in state schools and private language institutes. TEFL here between January and March to be on hand for the Rio Carnival!

Sao Paolo – Sao Paulo is the largest city in Brazil, seat of the Brazilian Stock Exchange and home to the headquarters of over 60% of the country’s top international businesses. Its position as the country’s leading economic hub means there is a huge demand for TEFL teachers with Business English experience.

Brasilia – Brasilia is the country’s capital and home to all of the apparatus of government. It offers experienced TEFL teachers a wide variety of opportunities to teach English in language institutes and in the business sector.

Olinda is a beautiful town. That's what the name means. "Oh! beautiful." My students were amused that my name was Linda, so every time they spoke to me they started by saying "Oh Linda." A joke that never got old and sent us all into big smiles.Linda woodland

Page 24: The Top 10 TEFL Destinations

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 help you with your TEFL travels. 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…

• You don’t need to speak another language! 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.

• Stop packing your life! Never take more bags than the 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!

• Get insurance coverage. Travel insurance isn’t the 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 covered. So, don’t even think about travelling without it!

24

where I mark my

students' work

Things We’ve Learned Along the Way…From Us to You!

getting the lesson off to a great start!

Page 25: The Top 10 TEFL Destinations

• Learn how to cope with culture shock. Culture 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.

• Be prepared for worst case toilet scenarios! A 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!

• Embrace cultural differences! Your experience will be more rewarding if you see cultural differences as a meaningful challenge and an opportunity to learn about where you’re living. Remember, you’re not there to criticise or change things!

• Shhh… stop talking so much! As a TEFL teacher, 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.

• Don’t worry… your students won’t be clueless. 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.

• Learn the local lingo! Take the time to try and learn 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 even negotiating with a street vendor!

• Try all the weird and wonderful foods! Don’t start gagging and turning your nose up - well, you can sometimes! Trying exotic, new foods is part of the excitement so get involved!

• Stay safe! Remember, you’re in a foreign country and your street smarts may not be that tip top… so be careful and always use good judgment!

25

The morning commute

Such enthusiastic students!

Join TEFL ChalkboardWant 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 >

Page 26: The Top 10 TEFL Destinations

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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 you have your inspiration, what should your next step be? Well, take a look at our recommendations!

Get Advice & Tips from Real TEFLers!i-to-i TEFL offers you an incredible social networking hub, where you can talk to past, present and future TEFLers and get some real feedback and tips from TEFLers around the world!

So, join today for free and get the scoop from your fellow TEFLers!

Get A Free Taste of TEFL! Plus, Free Business English!If you haven’t started your TEFL training yet, just check out this free TEFL Taster and you’ll get a great taste for the TEFL world & TEFL training.

Plus… If you enter your details at the start, you’ll qualify for a free Business English Specialist Certificate!

Book Your TEFL Course & Get Advice from the Experts! Book your TEFL course right online or request a free call-me-back to speak to an advisor and find out which course is right for you! You can get all the advice you need on training and finding your job… so don’t hesitate to get in touch today.

Good Luck & Happy TEFLing! Taking five...

The Dream Team

Page 27: The Top 10 TEFL Destinations

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www.onlinetefl.com

Page 28: The Top 10 TEFL Destinations

www.onlinetefl.com