ESL teaching allows you to travel and explore different countries all while working and earning money. With the demand for teachers on the rise worldwide, there’s no better time to pack your backpack and find your perfect destination.

If you’re thinking about jetting off and finding an ESL teaching job, you first need to decide where you want to live. There are so many countries looking for good ESL teachers, you’ll be spoiled for choice. To help you make your decision, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite destinations.

Chile

Chile is an attractive choice for people wanting to visit South America. Compared to its neighbours, the cost of living in Chile is quite high. However, this means wages are also higher. Expect a monthly salary between $500 – $800.

The Andes are the perfect place for mountain climbing and hiking. The Northern and Southern Patagonian Ice Fields also make Chile a sought-after destination for outdoor explorers.

Most teaching jobs require both a bachelor’s degree and a TEFL qualification. Expect to be teaching adults. Business English is hugely popular. You may also teach adults working in the tourism industry.

Morocco

If you’re looking for a warm climate and rich culture, you can’t go wrong with Morocco. Imagine wandering around local markets buying spices.

Marrakech is the go-to city for ESL teachers. Other popular places include Casablanca, Rabolt and Tangier.

Expect to earn between $1000 – $2100 per month. You’ll need a bachelor’s degree to get a visa, and most jobs require a TEFL qualification.

English is taught in school from the age of 10 so expect to be helping children improve their language skills. You may also teach young adults who are at university, and Business English is growing in popularity.

Hungary

There are plenty of jobs for ESL teachers in Hungary so finding work isn’t difficult. You’ll be able to wander the historic streets, admire the architecture and also enjoy the stunning scenery that lies just outside the cities.

Budapest is the most popular destination. But Veszprem, Szeged and Pécs are also popular locations for ESL teachers.

The salaries are low when compared to other counties. Expect to earn between $500 – $830 per month. The cost of living is also low, so even though you won’t save a lot, you’ll still earn enough to live well.

You’ll need a bachelor’s degree and a TEFL qualification. 

Vietnam

Vietnam has everything a traveller wants. Busy cities, mountain scenery, long sandy beaches. It also has a booming ESL market for both children and teachers. It’s a great place to head if you’re a newly qualified TEFL teacher.

You’ll be able to enjoy the street food, explore the markets and visit the sights knowing that you’re also working. And you will get a job. There’s no difficulty there. 

Most language schools require you to have a TEFL qualification. Plus, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree to get a visa.

Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi and Da Nang are popular places for ESL teachers who expect to earn between $1200 – $2000 per month.

To find out more about teaching in Vietnam, visit The TEFL Org: teach English in Vietnam blog article

Argentina

Another excellent place for new TEFL teachers, Argentina is a great place to live and work. It also has some of the most beautiful natural beauty spots making it great for outdoor adventures.

You probably won’t save a lot of money in Argentina, but living costs are low, so your $600 – $1200 monthly salary will be fine.

Most jobs require you to have a bachelor’s degree and a TEFL qualification. 

Expect a very casual attitude to employment. Most language schools offer 6-month contracts, so staff turnover is high. Don’t be surprised if your job interview is short. If the person interviewing likes you, you’ll likely be hired.

The United Arab Emirates

If you want a good salary and even save some money, the UAE might be the place for you. It has a competitive ESL job market because it offers some of the highest-paid ESL jobs in the Middle East.

The Gulf News reported that ESL teachers were in demand in the UAE in 2021, so it’s worth considering.

Dubai and Abu Dhabi are the most popular places for teachers. They both offer an excellent standard of living, a great climate and a fun ex-pat scene. Though remember, the laws are more conservative than in other countries.

All jobs require a bachelor’s degree, a TEFL qualification and be a native English speaker. If you do qualify, you’ll be looking at a monthly salary of $2200 – $4000. Plus, many schools offer free accommodation and return flights.

The Czech Republic

Right in the heart of Europe, the Czech Republic is the perfect place to base yourself if you want to explore the continent. 

Prague is obviously the most popular place for ESL teachers. But Brno, Chomutov, Liberec are also worth exploring too, if you’re thinking of looking for work.

The language schools tend to focus on adults, so expect to teach evening classes. After School lessons for kids are also popular. Teachers tend to work 25 hours a week.

Expect to earn between $600 and $1450 per month.

South Korea

Moving to South Korea allows you to completely immerse yourself in its culture. If you like hard work and a busy social life, South Korea might be the place for you.

You will need a degree for visa entry, but work is abundant, and you’ll earn between $1670 – $2000 per month.

There are job opportunities in both public and private schools. Private language schools pay better, but you’ll probably work more hours.

There are lots of young children studying English. Plus, you may also help teenagers pass an English proficiency test for university entry.

Where are you heading?

No matter where you decide to go, you need to plan for your trip. Moving to another country can be tricky, so you must prepare fully. For tips on moving to a different country, read this article.