Top 10 Countries in Which to Teach Abroad

We are halfway through 2010 and the job market is still looking a little worse for wear. The result: There are few opportunities for fresh graduates to gain meaningful work experience. It is no surprise then, that more and more graduates are seeking opportunities to travel abroad and teach English. There are many things to consider before making this decision though, starting with deciding where to actually go. Here the GO! Overseas top 10 countries in which to teach English abroad.

Note: the primary purpose of this post is to inspire readers to think about different places to teach abroad. The list is by no means conclusive. The links provided are not paid inclusions, but simply recommendations provided for your convenience.

10. Chile

Next to Argentina, Chile maybe the second most popular Latin American destination in which to teach English abroad. This is particularly true if you enjoy the outdoors. The experience of living in Chile, however, maybe your only tangible reward as many of the positions are low paying especially compared with other opportunities listed here.
We Recommend: www.teachingchile.com

9. Saudi Arabia

Teaching positions in Saudi Arabia offer an opportunity to live and experience an unique and often misunderstood part of the world. The positions here are also some of the highest paid and sought after jobs in the ESL industry. Does 50k a year sound appealing? That salary is not uncommon in Saudi Arabia.
We Recommend: www.footprintsrecruiting.com

8. Thailand

Thailand made it onto the list simply for being a fantastic place to live. In fact, life here is almost too good to be true and the country is full of expats who never plan on leaving. You've been warned.
We Recommend: www.teachaway.com

7. Costa Rica

Costa Rica is one of the top destinations for people seeking TEFL certifications. After completing your TEFL course it is generally not difficult to find a local job. Once you do you'll enjoy a great lifestyle filled with beautiful beaches and friendly Latin American culture.
We Recommend: www.costaricatefl.com

6. Czech Republic

Many people dream of finding an opportunity to teach English in Europe. Sadly, for most Americans and other citizens without EU citizenship many of these positions are few and far between. Fortunately, this is not the case in the Czech Republic, one of the best countries in which to take a TEFL course and find a local teaching job.
We Recommend: www.caledonianschool.com/jobs-teaching-english.html

5. Russia

The same reasons to teach in the Czech Republic also apply to Russia. Teaching in either country is an excellent option if you are just entering the ESL industry and looking to gain experience and business contacts before moving onto more desirable European locations (e.g. Spain, Italy, France) that are initially harder to teach in.
We Recommend: www.jobs.languagelink.ru

4. Argentina

If living in Asia is not exactly your cup of tea, an English teaching job in Argentina might be just what you are looking for. Spend your weekends learning how to tango, drinking great wine, or escaping to the mountains of Patagonia. Many who venture here are never seen again, and for good reason.
We Recommend: www.road2argentina.com

3. China

You won't make as much money as you would in South Korea. Also, the Chinese are not known for being as friendly as Taiwanese people, but an English teaching job in China is not without its own merits. The opportunity to live in a city like Shanghai and experiences one of the world's most dynamic and exciting cultures should not be overlooked.
We Recommend: www.englishfirst.com

2. South Korea

Another superb destination for English teachers looking to gain valuable experience abroad. If you can get through the bureaucratic application mess, the EPIK, GEPIK, and SMOE programs are all excellent public school systems to work for. South Korea also offers excellent salaries to teachers with little or no previous teaching experience.
We Recommend: www.epik.go.kr

1. Taiwan

I should be honest here and let everyone know that I spent two years living and teaching English abroad in Taiwan. An ever so slight bias, but seriously, I can't say too many good things about teaching abroad in Taiwan. The kids are great, the food is fantastic, and people are friendly. What's not to love?
We Recommend: www.reachtoteachrecruiting.com