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The Pitfalls of The Free TEFL Course: Concerns for the Teach English Abroad Industry and Recommendations

The Pitfalls of The Free TEFL Course: Concerns for the Teach English Abroad Industry and Recommendations

Xplore, a prominent organization that has successfully trained and placed over 10,000 ESL teachers in schools worldwide, has been at the forefront of ensuring quality education in the teach-abroad industry. They are raising concerns over the increasing prevalence of free TEFL courses and the damage this may cause for the ESL industry.

 In recent years, there has been a surge in the availability of free TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) and TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) courses online. While the idea of free education may seem enticing, Xplore has serious concerns about the impact of these courses on both aspiring teachers and the schools they serve.

The Appeal of the Free TEFL Course

Free TEFL/TESOL courses often advertise themselves as accessible options for those interested in teaching English abroad. They claim to be tuition-free, with the only cost being to issue a certificate, which usually ranges from USD 20 to 100. On the surface, this may seem like an affordable way to obtain a TEFL certificate. However, Xplore believes that this affordability comes at a huge cost to teachers and ESL students.

Thailand Meet Up

Lack of Human Interaction and Assessment

One of the major concerns that Xplore has with the free TEFL course is that these types of courses often fail to adequately prepare teachers for the challenges of teach English abroad experiences. They tend to be superficial, offering a basic understanding of TEFL concepts without much, if any, human interaction and instructor feedback.  Assessment in the free TEFL course often consist of multiple-choice questions that students can take as many times as they want until they pass. These courses also often lack lesson plan submission requirements or self-reflection activities that are so critical for the learning process. The free TEFL course is missing these critical elements because human interaction and instructor assessment requires time and therefore carries a cost. 

Xplore emphasizes that effective teacher training requires ongoing feedback and interaction with experienced instructors. Without an instructor to review lesson plans and provide constructive feedback, teachers may struggle to adapt to real-world teaching situations.

Limited Peer Interaction

Peer interaction is another essential component of teacher training. A free TEFL course often lack opportunities for aspiring teachers to collaborate with peers, share ideas, and engage in practical exercises together. The absence of peer interaction can hinder the development of teaching and classroom management skills.

The Consequences

XploreAsia has observed that teachers who complete a free TEFL course often find themselves ill-prepared to handle the demands of teach English abroad programs. They also lack the confidence, practical skills, and adaptability needed to thrive in diverse classroom settings. As a result, both teachers and the schools they are placed in face unnecessary challenges and difficulties.

A Super Cheap TEFL Course is also a Problem

It’s important to note that Xplore’s concerns extend not only to a free TEFL course but also to extremely low-cost options that may charge as little as 50 USD. The critical factor to consider is whether the course provides instructor assessment, peer feedback, and requires learners to prepare and submit lesson plans. If these essential components are missing from your TEFL / TESOL course, Xplore strongly recommends seeking a program that does incorporate them.

Conclusion

While the allure of a free TEFL course is undoubtably strong, particularly in these budget conscious times, Xplore’s concerns regarding their efficacy are well-founded. Teach English abroad experiences are rewarding but challenging endeavors that require thorough preparation and training. Xplore firmly believes that investing in a comprehensive and interactive teacher training program, with experienced instructor assessment and peer interaction, is the key to ensuring success for ESL teachers and the students they serve. As a teacher, you owe it to yourself and to your future students to be adequately prepared, and this, in turn, will allow you to have a much more seamless experience overall. 

Xplore provides in-class and online, internationally accredited, interactive TEFL / TESOL. You can find out more at www.xploreasia.org. 

Xplore Teacher Meetup in Ayutthaya, Thailand 2024

Xplore Teacher Meetup in Ayutthaya, Thailand 2024

On Saturday 20th, January 2024, the Xplore Thailand Team organized a fun cultural meetup in Ayutthaya!

The goal of this meetup was to get a chance to spend time with our alumni again and also to have them meet other teachers and share their experiences living and teaching in Thailand. We chose Ayutthaya, an ancient capital city of Thailand, because we would like them to have a good time learning Thai culture in a relaxing atmosphere. The meetup was attended by 26 teachers.

Xplore Teacher Meet Up Thailand

The day started with exploration of Ayutthaya Gold Treasure at Chao Sam Phraya National Museum. It was enchanting to learn about the history of Ayutthaya Kingdom and explore the stimulated crypts of Ratchaburana Temple and Maha That Temple which is a collection of gold artefacts, gemstones, buddha statues, and buddha relics.

Thailand Meet Up

Then, we went to Chaiwatthanaram Temple, one of the most visited historical sites of Ayutthaya. We got a chance to dress up in Thai traditional costumes which everyone looked stunning! The afternoon sunshine also was at the perfect angle so it made the temple even more beautiful. When we walked around the temple, we perceived that it was a spiritual anchor for the people in the Ayutthaya period.

After a visit at the temple, we went to Ayutthaya Night Market, located next to Ratchaburana Temple and Maha That Temple so we could enjoy lively vibes of the market and also appreciate the beautiful views of the historical sites during sunset. Local sellers dressing up in Thai traditional costumes made it more special. We acknowledged that the local sellers put a lot of thought and effort into presenting Thai art in food. Some foods and desserts are ancient foods that even some Thai people have never seen before. Our teachers got to try a lot of delicious snacks and relax on Krae, Thai traditional bamboo litter. The other thing that impressed us was that there was no rubbish at all which kept the market clean.

life in phuket

At the dinner, teachers got to chat about their experiences at their placements, had Thai food, and enjoyed challenging games. The winners of the games received tote bags printed with Thai blessing phrases. They also got to try Roti Saimai, which is spun sugar wrapped in soft roti. It was a whole new experience for them to try Ayutthaya’s signature dessert and also a MICHELIN Guide.

life in phuket

This was a meetup in the central region hosted outside Bangkok. We really appreciate that everyone made an effort coming a long way to meet us. We were more than happy to reunite with our alumni from last year and also from years ago. It was our honour to present an important town of Thailand. It was fun having a memorable time together and we hope everyone feels the same!

This meetup was a memorable and enriching experience for all, further strengthening the bonds within the Xplore community.

I wonder if you know, how they live in Tokyo…

I wonder if you know, how they live in Tokyo…

The 2nd Teacher Meetup – where meeting up and finding each other was the hardest part.

Tokyo: a busy city pulsating with life – where tradition meets innovation, and every corner holds a new adventure (and different vending machine)… From navigating the crazy subway system to kanpai-ing over yakinikku, the joy of making new friends so far away from home will never get old.

life in phuket

Last weekend, teachers from all over Japan gathered in Tokyo for 2 fun-filled days of sightseeing. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, the agenda was filled with mini-excursions that left us in awe of Tokyo’s charm. With each step, we absorbed the history at Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, marvelled at the towering views from Tokyo Skytree, and navigated the neon-lit wonderland of Akihabara. The next day, we even made time to check out the crazy fashion stores in Takeshita Street, Harajuku. Beyond the sightseeing, these moments gave us a sense of unity and belonging that will undoubtedly enrich our teaching practices. As the weekend came to a close, we all left Tokyo with new-found inspiration and memories, ready to infuse the classroom with cultural insights and renewed enthusiasm.

THE START: After sifting through tons of exit gates and what felt like a million people, we found each other and headed to the first stop: Tokyo Skytree! We didn’t know this until arriving, but apparently, the entire deck becomes a beacon of holiday cheer as soon as Halloween is over! The Christmas tree – sparkling with an array of colourful lights and themed ornaments – added to the impressive displays reminding us of home. There were even food and drink stalls. Some of us tried to keep warm by sipping mulled wine and others found comfort in the oversized churros. The panoramic view from the observation deck was unbelievable. The Skytree looks [big] from far away, but up close, it actually hurts your neck looking up to see the entire thing since it’s humungous. 

life in phuket

Teacher meet-ups are really important to us because they help facilitate networking among educators from all different backgrounds. Teachers have a chance to share insights, experiences, and strategies which builds a supportive community. We also love laughing at mistakes made. Teachers based in Tohoku, Kanto and Kyushu made the trip out this time round. 

After Tokyo Skytree, it was off to Asakusa… As we arrived, the forever-bustling Nakamise-dori street, lined with stalls selling traditional snacks and crafts, beckoned us to try sweets of the past. Then, as we walked towards the iconic Senso-ji Temple, the red gate, known as Kaminarimon, greeted us – much bigger and bolder than the photos. A few of us couldn’t leave without trying authentic Matcha while the rest paid ¥100 for omikuji.  [Omikuji] is a traditional Japanese style of fortune-telling. Basically, you draw a small slip of paper from a box, after making a small offering. These slips contain various predictions or advice that range from excellent luck to bad luck in different aspects of life, such as health, relationships, studies, business, travel, or general fortune. If it’s a good fortune, we often keep it. If the fortune is bad, we tie the slip onto a rack or tree near the shrine or temple grounds, leaving the negative fortune behind and seeking better luck.

Next stop… Akihabara!

life in phuket

Venturing into Akihabara with everyone was an electrifying escapade into Tokyo’s tech and anime mecca. The district’s neon lights and towering billboards immediately immersed us in a futuristic wonderland. As we strolled down Chuo Dori, the main avenue, we were engulfed by uncountable anime-themed shops, electronic stores, eclectic arcades and maid cafes. Exploring the multi-storied buildings dedicated to manga, anime, and gaming would have taken an entire day (we only had 2 hours). It was crazy to see in real life since many of our favourite anime have one or two scenes shot in this exact spot.

Finally, after what felt like 50 000 steps, it was time to eat! And where better to grab dinner, than Shibuya Crossing? Bustling between the flashing lights, scrambling people, and uncountable shops, we just about made it for our reservation. Yakinikku aka barbeque was well-deserved. As we kanpai’d to the long day, the all-you-can-eat fresh meat and veg just kept on coming… and the boys on duty kept on cooking (between sips of highballs). After dinner, some headed back to the hostel right up the road while others went in search of a nightcap – I don’t think they had to look very far.

The next day, some slept in, a few went home and the die-hards… went to Harajuku! Many don’t know this, but there’s actually a Shrine behind the station… Meiji-Jingu Shrine. Of course, we had to see it. It’s such an interesting contrast from the young, trend-seeking high schoolers who hang out in Takeshita Street. I’m really glad we got there early and made time for it. 

So after the old, onto the new. Taking the corner and crossing the street (towards the madness) felt like entering a kaleidoscope of colours, fashion, and youth. The streets were alive with a mix of locals and other tourists – naturally. We enjoyed browsing through the unique clothing stores, accessories shops, and crepe stands… WOW – were their crepe stands! Didn’t know this, but Harajuku is famous for them. After spending way too much time wandering the side streets and pit-stopping for lunch, it was sadly time to head home. 

Building a network while living abroad is crucial for professional opportunities, cultural integration, personal growth, and support. It offers learning experiences, creates a network, and can lead to future opportunities both abroad and even after returning home. This weekend was unforgettable. It was a pleasure to meet teachers living all over Japan and from all over the world.

“It was a jam-packed weekend filled with subway rides, hilarious conversations, losing each other, finding each other, practising our Japanese and getting to know more of the culture while meeting other teachers just like us! One thing is for sure – we all hit our step count goal!”

– Lay, Xplore Organizer

From Bristol to Bangkok – Stories from an Alumni (Guest Writer)

From Bristol to Bangkok – Stories from an Alumni (Guest Writer)

My name is Rob and I am from a small village near Bristol, based in the South-West of England, United Kingdom. I moved to Thailand back in 2021 because I wanted to experience something different after graduating during the pandemic. I had hoped to teach abroad before the pandemic hit so I had my TEFL ready, and though I had never been to Asia before I knew it was one of the more prominent locations for TEFL teachers.

life in phuket

I chose to use a company to make the move due to a variety of reasons. The first was for peace of mind, in particular, the help with the visa process and help finding accommodation when I first arrived. The second was for convenience. I wanted to make the move to Thailand as quickly as I could and XA had the infrastructure in place to have me interviewed by a school within days of applying. I was relieved to have a job in place before I even left the UK. I was even able to start doing some online training in the week before my flight. Finally, I wanted the chance to go through the orientation period before I went straight into teaching. Whilst I did not do the TESOL teacher training with XA, I did do all the orientation and culture classes in which I picked up some basic Thai language (very useful in the markets), some important customs (to avoid embarrassing myself on the first day) and also a network of fellow teachers, who were always able to help each other answers questions and many of which I am still friends with today.

life in phuket

My first placement was in Bangkok on a 6 month contract, before I moved down south to the more remote province of Prachuap Khiri Khan. I knew a reasonable amount about Bangkok before leaving home, as it’s one of the jewels of South-East Asia. A number of friends I spoke to had been before on gap years and holidays and had a lot to say. However, I think living there gives you a totally different experience! Of course, I visited all the famous temples as well as Chatuchak market, Chinatown, Khaosan Road and all the other tourist hotspots, but the best part about living there was getting to know the city on another level; finding smaller more authentic restaurants, joining a weekly football game with locals and other expats, as well as having a great starting point to travel to more remote areas of the country.

Bangkok has great air and bus links to Thailand’s many other picturesque provinces. The Thai school year ends in March before resuming in May, and, in my experience, I had over a month to go and explore the country! Recommending where to travel in Thailand is almost impossible, as there is so much to see. However, the one thing you should not miss if you are there over the teaching break of April is Songkran. Songkran is the Thai New Year and involves huge water fights breaking out on the streets. There are large events held in some of the most popular places; try Bangkok, Chiang Mai or Phuket!

Moving from Bangkok to my time in Prachuap, it was definitely a more conventional Thai experience being away from the capital! Bangkok still had a lot of Western influences; you could easily find any kind of food, many people spoke English and you would often run into tourists or fellow expat teachers. Prachuap was far more remote. When I was there, one of my favourite experiences was learning to ride a motorbike. In Thailand, motorbikes are everywhere. Tourists will often drive them, somewhat recklessly, on many of the popular holiday islands. For me, I loved being able to learn on the quieter streets of Prachuap. It made the commute to and from work a lot more entertaining! Prachuap is also one of the cheapest areas in Thailand. However, the low price did not mean it was low quality – there were a number of restaurants within driving distance to school that served amazing rice, noodle and soup dishes for prices around 40 to 50 baht (Just over £1!).

I would also like to mention some of the harder parts of making the move, as it obviously isn’t all fun and games! For me, one of the more difficult parts is communicating back home. As someone who likes to be in contact with my family regularly, the time difference can make things a little tricky, and when you want to use your weekends to travel it suddenly becomes very hard to schedule a call. Additionally, things can (and sometimes will) go wrong. In particular, any medical issues can be tricky with the language barrier. A trip to A&E can be made much more complicated when you can’t really explain what’s wrong. Luckily, the Thai people are super friendly and will always help you if they can. Always make an effort with the Thai teachers at school – they can be very helpful sometimes!

life in phuket

When looking to summarise my experience, it can be reflective to look at how it has helped me learn. Moving to Thailand has helped me become a lot more flexible in my thinking, as everything here seems far more relaxed and casual. The people are also incredibly friendly and that can be infectious, and the students are (almost) always great fun to teach and to learn with! I would definitely recommend teaching abroad. It was a little daunting at first, realising you are responsible for all of the kids in your classroom and for what they are going to learn! 

“As you get more confident and comfortable, the job can be really rewarding and entertaining, with the added bonus of getting to live somewhere as beautiful as Thailand!”

life in phuket

Small Town Girl Living in Playas del Coco (Guest Writer)

Small Town Girl Living in Playas del Coco (Guest Writer)

Hey Everyone! My name is Erin and I currently teach in Costa Rica!! Costa Rica is known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, waterfalls, and wildlife. It’s been 10 months and living here still feels like a dream!

life in phuket

A little about me? Well, I am 25 years old and from a small town in Georgia – but even though I’m a small town girl, I’ve always had big dreams of traveling the world. While studying in University, I was given the opportunity, along with other ambitious future educators, to visit Costa Rica.

life in phuket

During our visit, we were fortunate enough to volunteer and teach English to local elementary aged Costa Rican students. It was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life up until that point. I fell in love with the students, culture, and the country. Upon my return home, I KNEW that was what I wanted to do after graduation.

I felt like I had found my passion. I continued with school and later graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. I taught 1st grade for about 3 years in the States before finally taking that leap of faith and following my dreams of moving to Costa Rica to teach English.

Prior to moving, I knew that the process of moving abroad would be difficult (contacting schools, finding housing, making sure the necessary legal documents were in place etc.) I didn’t know anyone else personally that had done this… so it was important for me to go through a program, rather than alone, to have that extra support along the way. After much research, I discovered Xplore and I am so thankful that I made the decision to not do it alone. Not only was I able to receive my TESOL certification through the program, I was supported through the entire process.

I knew exactly which documents would be needed prior to arriving in the country. Upon arrival, they provided me with a full week of cultural experiences to help gain a better understanding of the culture. Xplore also assisted in finding the right job placement for me based on my preferences, housing, etc. All of my questions were answered (and there were A LOT of questions, trust me). I felt supported throughout the entire process. I can honestly say this journey would not have been as easy as it has been without XA.

life in phuket

Being from a small town, I knew that even in another country I still wanted to be placed somewhere with that small town feel. Now, I am currently placed in the cutest little beach town called Playas Del Coco. Everyone knows everyone and I always feel safe. People look out for each other here. I work at a small bilingual private school. I teach English to 1st-3rd grade as well as an intermediate and an advanced high school class. My students and colleagues have welcomed me with open arms. There is a sense of community here that is unmatched. One of my biggest fears prior to moving was feeling alone, but thankfully I have been very blessed to have met SO MANY wonderful people along this journey. I actually met my current roommate through Xplore. We accepted jobs in the same town and decided to live together and now I have a friend for life. Shout out to Erin! (Fun fact: We also have the same name 🙂

life in phuket

This experience has forced me to step out of my comfort zone on many occasions which in turn has helped me to gain more confidence, independence, and a strong sense of capability. Having the opportunity to immerse myself in a culture different from my own has not only been humbling but also eye opening. I’ve been able to gain insight into other perspectives which has broadened my world view. I’ve learned to be more open-minded and to let things be.

Here in Costa Rica, you always hear people say Pura Vida, which has a literal translation of pure life. However, Pura Vida is more of a lifestyle/attitude. It represents a relaxed, simplistic way of life and the appreciation of life no matter the circumstances and that is something I now live by. If you are considering moving abroad, I would 100% recommend it. It is life changing. I am so thankful to be here doing what I absolutely love. This has truly been the best year!!

life in phuket

 

“I truly feel like I have grown so much as a person since moving, both personally and professionally.”

– Erin T

From Long Island, NY to the always-sunny Playas del Coco (Guest Writer)

From Long Island, NY to the always-sunny Playas del Coco (Guest Writer)

Hi Everyone! My name is Erin Reilly and I’m originally from Long Island, New York but made the move to Costa Rica about 10 months ago in November 2022. I started thinking about moving abroad when I was maybe 22 or 23 but I was still in college so I decided to finish out college beforehand. 

life in phuket

I did my undergrad degree at Southern Connecticut State University and I graduated with two bachelor’s degrees, one in Elementary Education and the other in Interdisciplinary Studies, in 2020. Immediately after graduating those, I went back to school to get my Master’s in Special Education and graduated with that degree from St. Joseph’s College in 2022. Throughout my time in college, I travelled a lot. Any time I could get off, any place I could go, I went.

I have had a huge travel bug ever since I went on my first big trip abroad to Thailand in 2019. I went on a volunteer trip with an amazing organization called Give Volunteers for 2 weeks near and around Chiang Mai to teach English in remote villages at the local schools. To say this trip completely changed my outlook on life and helped me find my absolute love for travel, is an understatement. I knew once I finished that trip, I would never be able to stop traveling. Since that trip, I’ve been to 18 countries and volunteered to teach English in 3 of them (Thailand, Guatemala, and Jamaica) before deciding to move and work in Costa Rica.

life in phuket

I started the process of moving abroad in February 2022. I wasn’t sure exactly where I wanted to go so after narrowing down many different countries and opportunities, it came down to Spain and Costa Rica. I actually had 2 separate phone calls booked to start the process for both Spain and Costa Rica on the Friday… After consulting each, I was left with only the weekend to make the decision as applications for the program in Spain were closing that following Monday. After talking with a program in Spain and Xplore, I decided to go with Xplore in Costa Rica… Xplore seemed to have more support prior to leaving and once you are in the country, as well as, a lifetime job placement guarantee once you leave. I also really liked the idea that I could give them some pointers for where I wanted to be and they would try to get me a school and placement as close to what I wanted.

I knew I wouldn’t be alone and I would have a better chance of making friends if I went through a program like Xplore and that was exactly what happened. I moved here not knowing anyone but I ended up meeting amazing friends as soon as I got to San Ramon during the TESOL course. I actually was very fortunate to end up with a job in the same area as one of my friends from the course and now we are roommates. I quite literally couldn’t live without her now that we’ve spent the last year living together. A few of my other friends also were placed at jobs nearby and we’ve been able to spend a lot of time together as well.

I currently live in a small beach town called Playas del Coco and I work in a small school that’s just a quick 15-minute bus ride away. My school has about 50 students and services preschool and primary school. Currently, I am the English teacher for primary school students and I teach grades 1-4. Working with younger kids is not always easy, especially when they speak another language, but definitely worth it. I’ve learned so much about myself, my strengths and weaknesses, my capabilities, and my breaking points but I wouldn’t trade this experience for the world. I know when my time comes to an end here at this job, I will walk away a better person and teacher because of the experiences I’ve had here.

life in phuket

One of the most important things I think I have learned from my job and living here is, you really don’t need to speak the same language as someone else to build friendships and relationships with people and students. There are definitely ups and downs to any job but I’m happy that this was where I ended up in Costa Rica. I’ve grown so much in this past year and I’ve learned so many different things about myself. The past few months of living here have really taught me that I am so capable of doing things alone and embracing the moments where life is outside of your comfort zone. I’ve also definitely learned that my stress level is way higher than I would’ve thought. The hardest part I’ve found about living here is how expensive everything is, so another thing I’ve really gotten good at this year is budgeting my money and/or being able to make my money last.

life in phuket

Before coming here, I tried my best to have no expectations, to just go with the flow, and whatever happens, happens but Costa Rica has gone above and beyond what I ever thought this experience would be like. If there’s one thing I could tell everyone in the world, it would be to take the leap even if you are scared or worried, it might turn out better than you ever would’ve thought.

life in phuket

 

“Moving abroad is a wild ride but one of the best experiences I could have ever dreamed of.”

– Erin Reilly

Kate in Kanagawa, Japan – Guest Writer

Kate in Kanagawa, Japan – Guest Writer

Hello! My name is Kate, I’m 24, and I’m from Ireland. I moved to Japan six months ago to teach English for a year. I graduated last year with a degree in philosophy, politics, economics and sociology from Trinity College Dublin… While I thoroughly enjoyed my studies, and hope to pursue a related career in the future, I did not feel quite ready to enter the so-called “real” adult world of climbing career ladders just yet. Teaching English abroad appealed to me because it’s a way of truly experiencing another country by immersing oneself in the society. I also believe my personality meant I would adapt well as a first-time teacher: I am a social person and take great joy in meeting new people and learning about diverse cultures. I am delighted that I made this decision and have never regretted it for a moment. 

life in phuket

I would be lying if I said the preparation for moving across the world to a country I had never been to wasn’t at times daunting. However, the process through which I did this was hugely helped by Xplore Asia and their partner company whom I did my TEFL qualification with. The TEFL qualification was really accessible and interesting. It was a 120-hour online course which I was able to complete at my own pace. When I finished the qualification, Xplore Asia stepped in and guided me the rest of the way. From conducting my interview in an approachable way to helping me negotiate sending my degree certificate to Japan, they were always there to answer my (many) emails and questions really quickly and thoroughly. Each future teacher is assigned a particular mentor who liaises with you for the duration of the process, which eliminates the need to constantly update several different people. I’m so grateful to have had the expertise of Xplore Asia guide me through this process – it made everything so much less overwhelming.

life in phuket

Before I moved to Japan, I bought a copy of Lonely Planet’s guidebook. This has been really useful, both in my preparations before I came and also to learn more about different regions and get recommendations for places I want to visit while I’m here. I also used websites such as Tofugo and Japanese Pod 101 to learn some Japanese. Xplore Asia also signed us up to an online cultural and language course which I really enjoyed. Japanese culture and history is very unique and I’m glad I was able to garner some perspective before I moved. Also included in the Xplore Asia package is a cultural weekend trip. Unfortunately, I was unable to attend the session earlier this year as my sister was visiting, but I heard the trip to Osaka was a success. I’m looking forward to attending the next round of culture weekends!

Even when Xplore Asia had helped me complete all of my necessary documentation and had secured me a job, they continue to check in frequently and have set up a Facebook page to check the locations of other English teachers around Japan. The company with whom I’m contracted now have also been very helpful, and do the majority of the work for you before you even arrive in Japan! They assigned me to my school, found me an apartment, signed me up to various utilities companies, and sponsored my residence card – all things I would really struggle with as my Japanese is elementary (at best). I was initially concerned as I don’t have a driver’s licence, and this is one of the stated requirements by the company.

However, if you are placed in an urban area, there is no requirement to drive; it is just for teachers who get allocated to rural areas in Japan. I was luckily placed in Kanagawa prefecture, and I live about 20 minutes from a great part of Tokyo called Shimokitazawa, and 30 minutes from Shinjuku (whose station I still get lost inside). Public transport is brilliant in Japanese urban areas and I can access the school I work in easily. The reliability of public transport is still a novelty to me, if a train is 3 minutes late it’s considered a “significant delay”; in Ireland, I feel grateful when the bus I’m waiting for arrives at all!

life in phuket

Moving across the world is never going to be an easy decision or undertaking, but I can’t recommend it enough. If you have the curiosity and passion, everything else will fall into place; especially if you have a support network of family, friends and companies like Xplore Asia at your back. My experience of Japan so far has been brimming with rich cultural experiences, meeting like minded friends, travelling, and, maybe most importantly, I’ve learnt a lot about myself. Although I felt I wanted to escape the imminent “real world” after university, unbeknownst to myself, I signed up to something which has helped me grow and prepared me more for adulthood more than any other experience could have.

life in phuket
life in phuket

 

 If you have the guts to move to another country, especially on your own, you can do anything. 

– Kate Burke

Erika in Japan – Teach English (Guest Writer)

Erika in Japan – Teach English (Guest Writer)

My name is Erika Castro, and I am currently an ALT working out of the gorgeous prefecture of Hokkaido, Japan. I’m 24 years old and I have a lot of interests, some of which include fashion, travel, art, literature (especially fiction), anime, language studies, dance, and martial arts. I have a bachelor’s degree in English and Psychology, and as a matter of fact, reading and writing have been a massively influential part of my life for as long as I can remember. I can confidently say that I’ve read about a thousand books in my lifetime. Even then, it still doesn’t feel like enough, as my list only continues to grow as I get older and become more and more exposed to “must-read” titles. I have a deep appreciation for words, literature, and the English language, and so the idea of playing a role in someone else’s English learning journey was an idea that excited me. I have a serious passion for travel, and I thought that teaching English in another country might be the perfect way to combine two of my loves. It was just over a year ago now that I received my degree in English and made the choice to take a year after my studies to teach the language in the country of my dreams, Japan.

life in phuket

When I decided to take this step and move across the world, I actually had no guidance or any idea as to where I should start. I didn’t know anyone in my social circle who had done this before, specifically in Japan, which is known for being considerably more strict with the visa process than some other popular English-teaching destinations. So I turned to Google to do some research and was guided to XploreAsia, who has honestly made the process a lot smoother than it might’ve been had I not done so.

I guess you could say that the reason I chose a company to help me with the move instead of going alone was that I really wanted to make sure that, since it was a serious matter that involved government documents and had no room for errors, I could entrust the responsibility to those who had the experience and knowledge necessary to help me achieve my goals.

life in phuket

I arrived in Japan on March 24, 2023 in Tokyo, where I then caught a train to Sendai, Miyagi to complete my orientation and initial training with the company I was placed at. I was then placed in a small town by the name of Fukagawa, which has a population of about 20,000 people. As someone who has grown up in a city her whole life, living in a small town has been a welcome experience. My contract is set to last for a full school year, so I will finish sometime during the Spring break of 2024. 

I knew absolutely nothing about Fukagawa, but I had heard about Hokkaido, of course. I was familiar with the capital city of Sapporo, which is known for its snowy winters, beer, and noodles. Actually, Hokkaido reminds me a lot of Canada, which is where I’m from.

I was provided with a rental car by the company, since I have a rural position. The schools I work at are in the town over, so driving feels really nice and I enjoy the freedom…

The cost of living in Japan is, without a doubt, drastically cheaper than in my home country. My rent for a 230-ish sqft apartment including Wi-Fi, rental furniture, and a parking space amounts to about $385CAD per month, which is virtually unheard of back home. I’m also switching apartments soon, and I managed to find an apartment for double the size and half the rent on my own. I’ve seen 2L bottles of mineral water from grocery stores as low as 68yen, which is about $0.63CAD (also unheard of). Groceries are cheaper, eating out is cheaper, especially since Japan does not possess the North-American tipping culture I grew up used to. A few weeks ago I went to a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant, ate about 16 pieces of fresh sushi, plus a Coke and a dessert, and paid less than $20CAD. So yes, I would definitely say that living in Japan has been nicer to my wallet than back home.

life in phuket

A challenge that I did not expect to face was some issues with my housing, unfortunately, and is the reason for my moving into a new apartment soon. On my first night in my new home, I noticed tiny black specks or flakes in the water from all of my taps. It’s a good thing I checked my cup before drinking it, and since then I’ve been living off bottled water. Because I’m deterred from cooking, my diet has mostly consisted of items to go.

The original building I was moved into is from the late 60’s-early 70’s, and so upon inspection, I was told that there was rust in the pipes. This was the main stressor for me, and it definitely was a source of anxiety for me and certainly affected my quality of life. I want to emphasize that indeed,  Japan as a whole is known for its clean and crystal-clear drinking water, and in every hotel I’ve stayed at, I did not see an issue. It just so happened that I had moved into a much older building with much older pipes.

I’ve learned that I am extremely adaptable, which is something I take a lot of pride in. Even now, almost 5 months in, I can’t say that I am all that affected by homesickness. I actually feel like I’ve been thriving, and have been able to focus on personal projects and endeavours that I had been meaning to for quite some time.

I think that the experience one gains from being exposed to different lifestyles and cultures is invaluable, and that it can only influence your growth as a person in the most positive of ways. I’ve met some wonderful people here, and every day there is at least one interaction I have that can be described as wholesome or refreshing. It’s probably partially because of this that I’ve adjusted quite well and experience very rare/mild bouts of homesickness (I miss my cat, who is being taken care of by my amazing father). My goal is to make the most out of my limited time here—it goes by faster than you’d think! I learn something new on a daily basis, whether it’s about myself, the people around me, Japanese customs and culture, or life in general.

 

“This is by far one of the best decisions I’ve ever made for myself and I have absolutely no regrets. I’m confident that anyone else considering doing something the same would think so, too.”

– Erika Castro

Teach English in Yangon, Myanmar – Checking in with Dillon

Teach English in Yangon, Myanmar – Checking in with Dillon

 

Hello everyone! I’m Dillon from Cape Town, South Africa and I recently made the major move to teach in Yangon, Myanmar in June 2023!

I am currently 30, but decided to make this big move when I was 28. It all started when I fell in love with South East Asia, especially Japan. To be honest, I always had a big love for South East Asia, but didn’t really realise it until I started this journey would be like.

life in phuket

Let me first tell you about my career:
I started off as a salesman in an Apple store.
Went straight into the advertising word as a junior graphic designer.
Became a barman and then eventually the head barman of the bar.
Worked for an online teaching platform before I made the move to come abroad.
And now… Teacher in Myanmar!

So far it has been such an AMAZING experience! Of course everything you do in life has its ups and downs; nothing can just run smoothly without hiccups. I mean that’s how we learn in life, right?!

life in phuket

BUT WAIT, let’s rewind a bit… why did I choose a company to help me with the big move instead of going abroad and go job hunting myself?
Easy! Simple answer! Key word in that sentence is “big”! DO NOT do the move alone, always have someone in your corner. I decided to choose XploreAsia to help me with the big move. Why? I tried another upcoming company and it failed miserably. First of all, I had no experience with this and the time I had to leave they disappeared. No guidance, no messages, no apologies, NOTHING! I spoke to my friends who were supporting my decision with this move and they told me to try the company they went with – XploreAsia.

I felt a bit unmotivated after what happened, but decided it give it a go, because I really wanted to explore this new path. I emailed XploreAsia and immediately a lady named “Lay” replied and set up a Zoom call with me. Right then and there I knew I was going to go abroad with this company, as first impressions will always tell you a story or a paint a picture for you. XA helped me with everything. Went step by step and through everything. I now feel like a professional when someone asks me about teaching abroad. Not only did XA help me with paperwork, my contract with the school and the VISA, but also helped me in-country with finding a place to rent and also had an amazing introduction week, with some Burmese Boxing!

I was placed in a beautiful international school. My biggest surprise was finding out how good the students were at English. You can have a 1 on 1 conversation with students without any problems. Most teachers speak English really well, so you never feel like an outcast. Also, the staff are really friendly and always greet you with a smile and a small bow of the head. My contract is 1 year, which really puts me at ease, but what the school actually wants you to do is work hard and be dedicated and stay as long as you can, which I loved to hear! I plan on staying for a few years and would like to grow in the school.

life in phuket

Coming back to the ups and downs, the hardest part for me was not the cultural shock, but the fact that I needed to bring more money for renting. In Myanmar you need to pay 6 months rent up-front. In the past, you got negotiate to 3 months, which I wanted to do, but unfortunately for me, no one wanted to budge on the 6 months upfront. That made me stress for a while until Michael and Ma Emon (“Ma” is used as a sign of respect for someone older) spoke to the school and luckily for me, my school helped with the rent. This really showed me how the school could pull through for some stranger who just landed in their country. This new employee with all these problems lol, BUT this reassured me and made me love my school even before I started working. I purely believe in “you scratch my back and I’ll scratch yours”. Therefore, I will stay at my school as long as I can, as they helped me when I needed help the most.

One thing about moving abroad, you learn things about yourself you did not know, especially because I lived with my parents at home and I am now on my own. Another thing is, that the children will point out everything you do or wear, so you will definitely find out something new about yourself. I never thought understood my teachers when they said, “You are our children when you are at school.” Now I do! They are definitely my children! In all my other jobs, when I was sick, I took off. Here, I’ve been sick and I went to school, mask and all. Why? I don’t want my students to fall behind with their work, plus they look forward to seeing the native English speaker.

Every day my alarm goes off at 6:30 AM, but I get up at 7 AM. I’m sure a lot of people do the same! Those 30 minutes of lying in bed are crucial. Oh my word! Forgot to tell you guys about my unfurnished place! Okay, at the end of this paragraph, okay?! Coming back to my day, I get up and take a cold shower (I do not have hot water in my apartment, as Myanmar is so hot, so most don’t have hot water), then I will get done and leave my place latest 7:45 AM and get to school by 8 AM. The periods for the day are 6, but the most I teach in one day is 5 periods and least is 1 period (having 1 sounds good, but it is super boring! Trust me!). After work, I will either buy food or make food at home. Buying food from the stalls on the street are super cheap and the food is amazing! That’s one thing that surprised me about Myanmar, the food! They are tasty and the variety is mind-blowing. One thing I’m used to that Myanmar doesn’t have though – McDonalds!

Now, to come back to my apartment. My school found a nice place which was cheaper than every other apartment on the market at the time. Benefits – 8 minute walk from school, central to everything and it has 2 rooms, 2 bathrooms and a massive kitchen and lounge! Only downside, it was unfurnished, but it has started taking shape already and its starting to feel like a home now. My school offers transport for free, but I am so close to school, that I decided to rather walk to school and getting the exercise in is always good. Another thing about Myanmar is the heat! If you are not used to humid, 30 degree celsius temperatures, then you’ll cry here! The upside though, you get used to it and the apartments are all fitted with aircon – I have 2!

The shops will surprise you! Cooked meals are cheap, buying ingredients, on the other hand, can be tricky. You will not find your spices or anything you are used to buying at home, in your country. Meat is surprisingly cheap, besides beef. All other products are cheap, normally priced, except milk and also a major one – FRUIT!
Fruit is super expensive. In South Africa, I can buy an apple anywhere and for cheap, around R2/R4. Here in Myanmar, it is R20 on special. That blew my mind!

life in phuket

There is no 7 Eleven here, but they have CityMart, which I love! I buy cooked meals at CityMart and either milkshake, cold drink or bubble tea, and I will sit there and have an
amazing meal. I also arrived here during rainy season and one thing I can tell you about the rain is that you’ll feel like you being attacked! The rain falls super hard and it makes you beyond wet! You have to have an umbrella. And no, the rain does not cool you down. The rain is just as warm as the temperature! 

In conclusion, all I can say, pick a company to help you with your decisions and the move, BUT also choose the right, reputable company. And if you are deciding about whether you want to teach abroad … stop! Just do it! It is one of the most amazing experiences you’ll ever have!

life in phuket

Only reason why I tried XA is due to the fact that my friends used them to go to South Korea; Thank you Denzil and Tyla! Wait, I’m forgetting Nora…thank you as well, Nora!

– Dillon Knight

Om Noi – Teach in Thailand Guest Writer

Om Noi – Teach in Thailand Guest Writer

Hey everybody! My name is Justin Rees and I moved to Thailand to teach English! A few years ago, I became more and more interested in traveling the world… After reading countless blogs and watching numerous videos I found that teaching English is a fun and rewarding way to travel!
Om Noi - Teach in Thailand

I discovered my love for traveling after my first solo trip to Costa Rica in 2019 – It’s 4 years later now and I’ve traveled to 9 different countries and experienced things I could’ve never imagined. Teaching was always something I was curious about, although I had no experience in the classroom, I was excited to have fun with my students and truly make a difference. Throughout the year I met student’s families, celebrated traditional holidays, explored beautiful temples and made memories that’ll last a lifetime.

I chose Xplore after countless recommendations from friends. Going through the process of moving, training, and placement at a school is difficult, even with help! But Xplore made it as easy as possible with great communication and a dedicated staff. Before too long I accepted an offer to teach in a suburb right on the outskirts of Bangkok called Om Noi. I worked at the local private school for a year teaching high schoolers English and conversation.

Om Noi - Teach in Thailand

I absolutely loved living in Thailand. Bangkok is an incredibly fun city. Being home to the famous Khaosan Road, and several incredibly historic temples makes it a very cool place to explore. Public transportation is incredible, English is widely spoken, almost always understood. The locals are very friendly and eager to strike up a conversation and learn all they can about you.

Om Noi - Teach in Thailand
Om Noi - Teach in Thailand

 On your time off you can and should check out the islands on either side of the country, from the Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan to my personal favorite being the Phi Phi Islands! 

Or you can hike the lush mountains of Northern Thailand, exploring the night life on Chiang Mai, or the famous White and Blue Temples in Chaing Rai.

Thailand met all my expectations, and I feel like I can call it a second home. I am very close to my family. We’re a small bunch who care and love for each other very much. Fortunately, that means a lot of support for my decision to move and work abroad. Being away from my family is very hard, but I find joy in making the best of my experience and finding so many new friends along the way. 

The most important thing I learned about myself was to have more confidence. Moving abroad is scary, and honestly, you’ll probably have no idea what to do with yourself. But don’t see this as a negative, see it as a positive way to recreate yourself. Being more friendly and outgoing, take risks, and don’t be afraid to say yes! One of my favorite quotes says, “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you might miss it.” Life is all what you make it, so don’t be afraid to take the jump! 

Om Noi - Teach in Thailand

I recommend everyone takes at least a year to live abroad. Get out of your comfort zone. Get the chance to look at life from a whole new perspective. Too often we become creatures of habit. Wake up, work, go home, eat, sleep, repeat. Why not jump on that plane and make the difference in a student’s life, have a breakthrough in the classroom, see the excitement in a student’s eye when they finally understand! That’s what makes it all worth it.

Om Noi - Teach in Thailand

 

“If you feel that urge that you’re meant do to more why not take the chance?”

– Justin Rees

Check out Justin’s blog here!