Asia Overview: Where Should I Teach English?

Looking for a TEFL job somewhere in Asia? Asia is a pretty big place with a lot to offer, so it’s no surprise that a lot of us get a bit confused about where to begin our teaching adventure. So we’ve taken some requests from various students and placed them where we feel is fit.

Money is not so important—give me somewhere with beauty and culture, maybe a bit off the beaten-path.

You’re in this for the experience not the money. You want something that money can’t guarantee; you want some long lasting memories, with a touch of adventure mixed in. If this is you then we suggest Cambodia/Thailand. 

You won’t get rich here but you’ll find what you’re looking for in terms of adventure and freedom. Whether you choose to spend you’re time off backpacking through the jungles or hitting the beaches you’re guaranteed to have that local like lifestyle that money can’t buy you. 

No roughing it for me, please—I’m interested in a fast-paced, cutting-edge, urban experience.

You’ve had your days of travel and adventure. You’re into the more stable and career orientated type of lifestyle. If this sounds like you then we recommend Japan.

Japan offers high salaries and has a lot to offer in terms of nightlife, restaurants and shopping. The classrooms are demanding high levels of expertise and are prepared to pay the price. Tokyo is highly ranked as one of the most developed cities in the world and is the leader in all types of technology. If you’re looking for a home-like feel in an Asian country then this is your place.

I have no teaching experience, but I still want a supportive, well-paid job in Asia with great benefits!

You’re fresh out of university and ready for a taste of something new, but you have never taught before. You want to learn and get paid at the same time. If this is you then we suggest China/South Korea.

China and South Korea are great for any level teacher actually. The ESL community in these countries is huge and ranges from 2 years old to 60+. Schools are very supportive and provide lots of teaching aids and assistance. They can help you with anything you need that could make you a better teacher, so they’re great places to start.

I’m looking for an experience abroad that is as culturally different from home as I can get! 

Bored of the 9-5 and same daily routine day in day out, then China is where you need to be. As one of the lesser explored places of Asia, China still has a lot to offer to foreigners in terms of culture and diversity. As one of the biggest countries in the world, and the biggest by far in Asia, it’s full of minorities and has a huge variety of cultures to show. On top of this, in some places there aren’t many or any foreigners there so the locals treat you with care and are always keen to show you around their local customs, making China the most exciting place to visit if you’re looking for a bit of ‘wow’.

I need a combination of everything: good money, rich culture, and a mix of rough and polished living.

You like to live it rough…but not all the time. You want a well equipped classroom and a decent salary but don’t want to feel like you haven’t left home. If this is you then you should head to Vietnam. Vietnam takes ESL very seriously and is prepared to offer professional teachers with generous salaries. The cities are developed but there are still places out of the city that offer a rich cultural history and give you the ‘traveler’ experience you’re looking for.

Which country did you end up in? Is it everything you wanted? Let us know and tell us about your own experiences and decisions you made.

We hope you enjoyed reading this post. Remember to share with your friends and fellow teachers. Do you have anything to share? If so, get in touch!