Where are the best places to teach English abroad?

There are many different locations available to anyone who is looking to teach English abroad. Some people make their decision based on the potential salaries on offer, while others might be more focused on cultural aspects or lifestyle. There are pros and cons to be considered for every region and individual country, so below we have outlined the most popular options to help you towards your final decision.

Which is the most popular region for teaching English abroad?

In terms of job numbers, Asia is by far the most popular region for ESL teachers. This huge continent offers a wide variety of opportunities across all kinds of environments. Jobs are plentiful in major modern cities such as Tokyo, Seoul and Beijing, while those looking for a slower pace of life are equally spoilt for choice in parts of Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam, to mention just a few.

Where can I earn the most money teaching English in Asia?

Teachers who want to save money while teaching in Asia should look towards the more developed countries in the region such as China, South Korea and Taiwan. Jobs are widespread throughout these countries and the salaries on offer are typically very high in comparison to the cost of living. As demand is so high in these destinations, it is common practice to arrange a job before you leave home. This fact alone is enough to draw many teachers, particularly those who have little experience of teaching and traveling.

What other popular spots are there for teaching English in Asia?

The booming economies of Asia?s more developed nations means that well paid jobs are widespread, however, many of these will be located in major cities which might not suit every teacher. If your dream of teaching abroad involves swaying palm trees and relaxing in a hammock, you might need to consider other options. Thailand is one country that attracts large numbers of teachers for its culture and lifestyle rather than the salaries. Saving much of your income might be difficult for most teachers, but the laid back approach to life is sufficient compensation for many people. You might also want to consider Vietnam which has seen a rapid increase in jobs and salaries in recent years.

Where are the most popular TESOL destinations in the Middle East?

Compared to Asia, the Middle East is small in size but it is still widely popular with ESL teachers. If you are looking for high salaries and extensive benefits, then this might be the region for you. As incomes are tax-free and contracts are usually laden with extra incentives, the competition for jobs is often very strong. Because of this, most positions will require some previous classroom experience, as well as high-level teaching qualifications in many cases. Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are home to the largest number of potential jobs, although Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar are also worth looking at.

What are the pros and cons of teaching English in the Middle East?

Teaching in the Middle East is almost certain to reward you with good pay and generous benefits such as paid flights and free housing. However, the conservative nature of society in many countries in this region is something you really need to consider before making a final decision. Some people find it hard to live with the unfamiliar social rules that exist in most countries and female teachers in particular might find the local culture difficult to get used to. On the other hand, many teachers are able to adapt to their new environment without issue and feel that the financial rewards compensate for any inconveniences they might encounter.

Where are the most popular TESOL destinations in Europe?

Europe always attracts a large number of foreign teachers due to its great mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. Job opportunities are widespread across the continent in a range of diverse locations from the Mediterranean coast in the south, to Scandinavia in the north. Wherever you dream of teaching English in Europe, there are a few things to consider before you get on the plane.

What are the pros and cons of teaching English in Europe?

The number one drawback of teaching English in Europe is the high cost of living that exists in many areas. Major world cities such as Rome, Paris and London, draw people from all over the world, but the truth is that a teacher's salary is not likely to be high enough to provide the sort of lifestyle you might have in mind. Another consideration is the widespread preference for British English as opposed to American English which can make it difficult for non-British teachers to get the better paid jobs in some countries. Visas and work permits can also be an issue for many non-EU citizens in some of the most popular destinations such as Spain, Italy and France. However, all is not lost as there are still good options available for anyone who is determined to teach English in Europe.

Should I consider teaching English outside of Western Europe?

Central and Eastern Europe offers an excellent alternative for many teachers who have their hearts set on teaching in the region. Many countries in these areas make it far easier for non-EU citizens to obtain the necessary visas and permits required to teach legally. Crucially, the cost of living is also considerably lower than most Western European countries, so it is possible to live a good quality of life and also save some money during your stay. The Czech Republic is the top destination in the region as it has plenty of job opportunities and a laid back approach to life. Other possible options include Poland, Slovakia and Hungary.

Is Latin America a good option for teaching English abroad?

Latin America is a huge region that covers many countries from Mexico in the north to Argentina and Chile in the south. Despite its size, Latin America does not offer the number of teaching jobs or high salaries that can be found elsewhere around the world. However, thousands of people still head to the region every year because of its widespread natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and endless opportunities for adventure.

Where are the best TESOL destinations in Latin America?

One of South America?s main teaching hotspots is Chile. The country has a well developed job market for foreign teachers and the average salaries are relatively good by local standards. The downside is that it is very popular as a consequence, so the competition for the best jobs is often very strong. If you are lacking in experience, you might want to look at some of the up-and-coming destinations nearby such as Colombia and Ecuador which both have a steadily growing demand. Argentina and Costa Rica have been at the forefront of ESL teaching in Latin America for many years, however, the competition for jobs is very high and it can be hard to earn enough to live comfortably due to a rise in the cost of living and minimal growth in pay rates. Almost every other country across the region has some level of demand for TESOL qualified teachers, so there are always plenty of options for anyone looking to teach off the beaten track.