I get asked this question a lot. The answer always depends on what you want out of your job. Every country has different opportunities and lifestyle. If you don't mind cold weather try Japan or Korea. if your into hot days try Thailand or the Middle East. Many factors will play a part in your job decision and I will try to help you make the best TEFL job decision with what I know.

If you are a newbie it will limit your employment opportunities somewhat. This said, if you have the education, being a newbie will not matter much. It is true, in most countries, the better education you have the better job choices you will get. I will try to break down some of the most popular places to teach and give my take on things.

THAILAND - A great place for a newbie to gain experience. The job market in Thailand is always available and easy to get. The new visa rules are a pain and costly. Make sure your employer will pay all visa costs, work permit costs, culture course costs and have an end of contract bonus. There is no housing provided which will eat at your bottom line. Very difficult to save money, especially if you have bills back home. The cost of living is cheap, but on the rise. Bottom line is Thailand is a great starting point, but a terrible place for pay.

KOREA - I have never worked in Korea and have no interest in going there. The pay is good and you get free housing. You need to have a background check now, before you will get your visa. You also need to have your original transcripts in a sealed envelope. It's cold and not very inviting. I have heard many horror stories from Korea, about not so honest employers. Bottom line is, Korea has great pay, terrible weather and many horror stories. Research before taking any job in Korea.

JAPAN - Seems like a nice place if you don't mind cold weather, earth quakes and paying a fortune for housing. Many places will subsidize your housing up to a certain point. This will help considering housing will cost you a small fortune. The pay seems decent compared to many places, it's just the cost of living that is difficult. Not many bad stories coming from Japan, so I think you would be OK there. You also, in many jobs, will require a drivers license. Check the job details in advance.

CHINA - What can I say about China? Many jobs available all the time. The pay, not that great. Housing is provided free, which helps. It's cold, rainy, polluted and censored. if you like freedom on the net, forget China. A few horror stories come from China in regards to employers, so do your research.

MIDDLE EAST - The Middle East seems OK. Yo have hot weather and plenty of air conditioning. The pay is some of the highest you will find as are the benefits. Most places provide housing or give a subsidy to help cover costs. I would try to get free housing as the prices are on the rise. You will also need, not always, a Masters Degree in something. I see many places like the degree in TEFL, so just check out whats on offer. There seem to be many restrictions about drinking and the internet. If you like to drink check the limits before you go.

I hope this will help you in making a decision. Remember, wherever you go, always research the school and country before accepting any job.

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