Dreaming of teaching English abroad, but with a twist? Maybe you are considering teaching English abroad but you’d rather not teach in China or South Korea or Vietnam – and you’d prefer somewhere a bit more unusual. So which are the best alternative TEFL destinations to teach English abroad off the beaten track?
As a teacher of English as a foreign language, there is no doubt that the world is your oyster. However, though this may be the case, there are still certain countries that grab the lion’s share of attention in the TEFL world. Vietnam, UAE, South Korea – these countries are popular with TEFL teachers either for their abundance of teaching jobs, their generous packages, their amazing lifestyles, or a combination of all of these!
Read more: Top European Destinations for TEFL Teachers
But maybe you’d like to venture a bit more off the beaten track.
If this is you, then stay tuned to find out our top 9 alternative destinations for TEFL teachers.
Teaching English in Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan might be the largest and richest country in Central Asia, but not many people know much about it – except maybe that it’s home to Borat! The country covers two time zones and five different climatic zones, with deserts, mountains, flatlands, deltas, valleys and canyons all over its immense area. In a bid to improve the country’s standing in the global market, the government has invested heavily into private language schools and this is where you’ll find a job. Salaries are generous and airfare and accommodation are generally included in your contract so you can expect to live an exciting life while earning good money. Definitely for those looking for something more adventurous!
Teaching English in Brazil
If you’re excited by the thought of working in South America and you want to explore a large country, then try Brazil. The demand for English language teachers is high so there are plenty of opportunities if you have a TEFL qualification.
In Brazil you’ll have the choice of working in a city, on the coast or inland. The cost of living is obviously higher in a city, but the wages too should be better. Wherever you decide to go you should earn enough to live in with some left over to enjoy your free time.
Popular places to teach English in Brazil:
- San Paulo
- Rio de Janeiro
- Salvador
- Recife
- Belo Horizonte
- Brasilia
- Santa Catarina
Teaching English in Malaysia
Multicultural, tropical and friendly, there is lots to love about Malaysia. Malaysia is not as well-known as its Asian counterparts Thailand, Vietnam and China, but this only makes it more special. There are many different teaching opportunities available, from private language schools to kindergartens to high schools to universities. To teach English in Malaysia you need to have a bachelor’s degree and be a native speaker of English.
Teaching English in Peru
Another South American option is Peru. Tourism is big business here so many Peruvians want to learn English for the job opportunities it offers. TEFL teachers can find a job teaching in a private language school, giving extra lessons to schoolchildren or teaching General and Business English to adults. At the same time, there are endless volunteer teaching positions in the more rural parts of the country for those looking for a guaranteed adventure.
Teaching English in Morocco
Morocco is a historic, beautiful country. It’s very popular as a tourist destination, so English is necessary for the locals to conduct business with tourists. At the same time, young Moroccans are keen to work and travel abroad, so they need English for that too. As a result of this, there is a huge demand for TEFL teachers in Morocco in international schools, as well as private language schools.
Read more: Top Romantic TEFL Destinations
Teaching English in the Republic of Georgia
Not to be confused with the US state where you would find your peaches, the Republic of Georgia is a gem of a European country that is still relatively unknown. You can find a job co-teaching with a local teacher in a school through the Teach and Learn with Georgia programme. Airfare and accommodation are included in your salary package, which makes this offer even more attractive.
Teaching English in the Czech Republic
Another popular tourist destination, Czech Republic also has a huge need for English teachers. You are likely to find a job in a private language school. The salaries in the Czech Republic are not particularly high but the cost of living is low, so you are able to live well – and drink lots of beer!
Teaching English in Turkey
If you like your coffee as strong as your raki, then head to Turkey. This beautiful, friendly country is growing in popularity as a TEFL destination. Choose from a job in historic Istanbul, the capital Ankara or Izmir on the coast, but wherever you go you’re sure to find glorious weather and great food. What more could you ask for?
Teach English in Argentina
From wine farms to glaciers to ski slopes to tango halls, Argentina has something for any visitor. It’s a country that you won’t want to leave so finding a TEFL job there is the best idea to experience its magic. Find a job in a language school or university and spend your free time exploring this amazing country – and probably eating some steak, too.
There you have it. Nine destinations not many people consider when looking for a TEFL job. All of these countries offer not only adequate teaching opportunities but also adventure, intrigue and, no doubt, a whole lot of fun.
