Work Abroad

For starters, it may be the only thing the traveler can actually do in the dream country of his choice. A degree in Italian syphilitic poets won’t do much for your average Indonesian.

You don’t need to speak the local language to teach them English. It would be helpful but almost no one will expect you to.Some schools even prefer you not to – it forces the students to speak only English with you in the classroom. They learn more.

It’s an excellent way to meet the people in your chosen country, make contacts, get laid (or engaged!) and have a good time. Also a good way to make some serious cash if you choose a country like Japan.

If you’re an egomaniac then as a teacher you can be the center of attention all you like. The classroom is your stage and you make each lesson happen with the force of your personality.

Many English schools are hit and miss affairs run by despotic directors out to leech the students for all they’re worth. You’re the hired help, no more. This is especially true outside Europe and the States.

But no matter how petty the bosses may be, while you’re in the classroom it’s just you and the students. You can relax in your space and when class is over just look for the fire exit to avoid talking to the directors.

In some countries English teaching can be very profitable and be enough to get you back on the road for another half year. These high paying countries tend not to be such a great time though – they pay well for a reason. On the other hand, if you go and teach the Brazilians you’ll dance every night but won’t get rich. You can decide whether it’s worth the insanity of teaching screaming kids in Taiwan for the few zeros added to your bank account by the end of the year. Life and its tradeoffs.

Back to Top - Print this page