10 Places To Live Your Best Life Teaching English Abroad In 2019
Whenever I see a roundup of bests and worsts, I instinctively roll my eyes. Your best could be my worst and vice versa.
For this post, I decided to go against the norms by focusing on the stuff that matters to you. Because let’s face it: you’re going abroad to work, but teaching is only 1/3rd of your day. What should you do with the rest of your time?
Whether you’re into outdoor sports, boozy nights with new friends, or you’re a die-hard history buff, I’ve got you covered - across all continents and all hobbies - in this year’s roundup of the best places to teach English abroad.
Teach English in Hungary
If you’re a music buff like me and you’re itching to go somewhere that has a legit music scene, look no further than Hungary.
As host to one of the largest music festivals in Europe, Hungary is known for having quality musicians and incredible live shows throughout the year.
Arguably, one of Europe’s most affordable capitals, Budapest is an intoxicating blend of beauty and eccentricity.
There’s a strong market for ESL teachers in Hungary with plenty of vacancies and getting a visa is nowhere near as complicated as it used to be.
Teach English in
Costa Rica
Phil Edwards said, “The best surfer out there is the one having the most fun.” And trust me when I say you’ll be lapping up the fun in Costa Rica.
From white water rafting to scuba diving, kitesurfing to jetskiing, Costa Rica has something for every water baby. And hey, why not teach English while you’re at it?
Costa Rica has a rich community of ESL learners and teachers and it’s a friendly location for those who lack bachelor’s degrees.
Teach English in Argentina
Whether you’re a novice or a die-hard enthusiast, Argentina’s stunning and diverse terrain caters to all levels of mountaineers and mountain climbers.
Teach ESL during the week and head off to the Andes at the weekend.
Aspiring TEFL teachers thinking about starting out in Argentina will have no problem finding a job in one of the most robust markets in Latin America.
I can’t tell you how many times I heard “China has 5000 years of history!” from my students, Chinese friends, and strangers while living in Beijing.
And yes, if you’re a history buff you’d have tons and tons of goodies to explore should you choose to teach in the most demanding market in the world.
ESL teachers of all backgrounds, experience, and qualifications who are keen to look through humanity’s historical lens will no doubt be in for a treat.
Teach English in India
Julia Child says “Cooking well doesn’t mean cooking fancy,” and in India, the street food is often as good or better than what you find in restaurants; a foodie’s dream!
If you’re a vegetarian foodie just know you’ll have died and gone to heaven as many cities in India are veggie-only.
Note that finding an ESL teaching job in India can be competitive, but highly rewarding.
Teach English in Morocco
Not all of us are cut out for the fairytales of a quaint village in some far-flung corner of the earth.
Some of us like our walkable cities and traffic jams paired with a nice mixture of cultures.
Morocco is that and more. Even better, Morocco is quickly becoming one of the top TEFL markets in the Middle East.
Who says you can’t have your city break and eat it too.
Teach English in Cambodia
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in true cultural experiences, Cambodia hits all the right spots.
The Khmer people, the temples, the food - Cambodia has lots to explore and welcomes the teacher-traveler who wishes to embrace it.
The TEFL market is in high demand with low entry barriers which makes this location a TEFL teacher’s sweet spot.
Teach English in Kyrgyzstan
They don’t call it “Switzerland of Central Asia” for nothing.
Look in any direction and you’ll see a mountain range close by or in the distance.
I went on a 7-hour hike once (it was supposed to be 3 hours, but I was not cut out for this hike) in Altyn Arashan.
Quite possibly the most beautiful trek I’ve ever done. If you’re into outdoorsy/nature-y stuff, Kyrgyzstan is it.
And hey, you don’t need a bachelor’s degree to teach English here.
Teach English in Japan
Which country comes to mind when you think of winter sports?
If it’s your thing and you haven’t thought of Japan - you’ve been missing out.
Japan is home to some seriously fun winter activities and a thriving ESL market.
Japan’s TEFL market is highly coveted and geared more toward the professional teacher than the ‘broke backpacker.’
Teach English in Russia
Photo by Nikolay Vorobyev on Unsplash
Night-owls, I’ve not forgotten about you!
If you’re desperately searching for somewhere new to drink and dance the night away you might want to consider Russia.
With the fastest growing TEFL market on the planet and a friendly approach to those without bachelor’s degrees, you’ll have job offers in no time.
Russian cities have a ton of nightlife to offer - a perfect combination of booze, music, and art.
When you fantasize about moving to another country, I know you’re not thinking about all the curious faces that will greet you each morning for class.
You and I both know what you’re really thinking about is all the other stuff you’ll get to explore. And there’s nothing wrong with that.
Teaching English abroad gives you the opportunity to explore the world and you should take advantage of everything that comes with it.