Travel With a Purpose – Teaching English Abroad
Are you seeking an opportunity to travel abroad for an extended period of time? Would you like to have the once-in-a-lifetime experience of being a part of another culture as if it were your own? Teaching English abroad is popular choice for those looking to enhance their travel experience, immerse themselves in the local culture and engage in travel with a purpose. “Teaching English as a Foreign Language” (TEFL) or “English as a Second Language” (ESL)are two common terms that are essentially the same thing. They are both certifications that while not always required, will certainly make you a more desireable candidate especially when choosing a work abroad versus a volunteer abroad program. It also prepares you for the job that you’ll ultimately be doing. Most of these certificaton courses are easily affordable, can be taken online, and can even assist with placement.
Volunteer Organizations such as WorldTeach offer placements in a variety of countries including Bangladesh, Guyana, Ecuador, and South Africa. WorldTeach has no age limit (other than for China placements, for which you must be under 65), and encourages retirees and professionals to volunteer. Be aware that there is a program fee associated with your placement. This fee covers the costs of preparing, training, and supporting a teacher in a developing country. It also covers your international airfare and overseas medical coverage, as well as your housing and stipend for food and living expenses. These fees range from just a few hundred to several thousand dollars. However, when you think about it, this is what you are paying to LIVE abroad – typically for a year! It is an incredible bargain and a way to really make a difference in your host community.