How to Travel and Work Abroad: Celebrate International TEFL Day With a New Career Opportunity
Contributed by Jess.
As the end of the year approaches, many start to think about what the new year will hold. Maybe a new career? Working and traveling abroad is an idea that many have; however are not entirely sure how to make it happen. If you are considering working abroad, a good place to start is to teach English as a foreign language. This is a career path that opens many doors to diverse cultures and new opportunities.
Once you hold the TEFL certification, a whole world of potential is opened up for those who want to earn whilst exploring the world. It's a practical choice for those seeking a global career. The specialized certification equips people with the skills needed to teach English in various countries, such as popular destinations like Thailand and South Korea.
If you are considering an exciting new career move, you will be just in time for the upcoming celebration of International TEFL Day on the 22nd of November. The online event will bring together some of the most respected names in the ESL world to talk about their experiences teaching English abroad and online. Whether you are just starting to explore teaching abroad options or just want to advance in the TEFL job market, this event will offer valuable guidance and resources for a successful international teaching experience.
Building an International Career
Having a career teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) offers clear pathways to work and travel globally. Factors that are also key to your decision are understanding where demand is highest and selecting destinations that align with career and lifestyle goals.
How TEFL Opens Doors to Work and Travel
Having the TEFL certification allows individuals to teach English internationally, making it the perfect gateway to work and travel. The course provides and helps build the skills needed to handle diverse classrooms whilst still meeting employer expectations.
Teaching English as a foreign language is always in demand worldwide due to the global importance of English.
TEFL jobs can also offer a wide range of benefits. These include housing, paid vacations and flight reimbursements. These perks can help teachers explore local cultures whilst earning a living.
Securing a TEFL Qualification
Before embarking on your new career adventure, you will need an essential TEFL qualification to start teaching English abroad. Most employers require a certification from accredited providers such as The TEFL Academy or ITTT.
Courses can range in length depending on what you are looking for. The courses typically involve 120 hours of training, which covers lesson planning, classroom management, and language skills. For added flexibility, many programs offer both online and in-person options.
Some TEFL programs will also include practical teaching experience, which will help further strengthen resumes and interview readiness. After completion of the course, there are also advanced certifications that can open doors to higher-paying positions and management roles.
Choosing your perfect TEFL Destination
Whilst choosing your perfect destination, take into consideration aspects such as salary, cost of living, and work environment. Countries like South Korea and Japan tend to offer stronger salaries and structured contracts - ideal for those seeking financial stability.
For those wanting a relaxed lifestyle, Spain could be the perfect option. Spain also offers opportunities in private language schools of government programs.
There are a few popular emerging destinations, like Costa Rica and the UAE, which provide diverse cultural experiences. When choosing your teaching destination, consider visa policies, language barriers, and also look at the demand for local English teachers.
Global Work: Cultural Immersion and Flexible Lifestyles
Working and traveling abroad allows for deep cultural engagement and a sense of flexibility to shape your own career and lifestyle. It is the perfect combination of learning from local customs and leveraging technology to maintain and grow professional opportunities from all over the world.
Digital Nomad Path
In recent years, there has been a significant rise in digital nomad visas, which have made it easier for TEFL-certified professionals to work remotely while traveling. Many like to combine teaching English online with freelance or contract remote work to sustain income.
The nomad lifestyle offers flexibility in choosing work locations, allowing for extended stays in countries with digital nomad visas. It is the perfect blend of cultural exploration with career development, enabling professionals to adapt to various environments without compromising job stability.
If you are interested in working overseas, becoming a digital nomad is one of the most popular routes. Having a TEFL qualification can further help you live the nomadic lifestyle. Many TEFL teachers choose destinations that already have thriving communities of remote workers. Destinations such as Thailand, Vietnam, Spain, and Costa Rica all offer vibrant cultures. Exploring these options can all lead to a fulfilling lifestyle where travel and work go hand in hand.
Related:
