Why Teaching Abroad as a TEFL Instructor is More Fun, Rewarding, and Fulfilling than Teaching Where you are

Teaching English abroad is a life-changing experience that offers much more than just a paycheck. For many aspiring teachers, the idea of working in their home country—whether it’s Canada or the United States—sounds comfortable and straightforward. But for those looking for adventure, cultural immersion, and professional growth, teaching overseas as a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) instructor offers a unique set of benefits that domestic teaching jobs can’t match.

If you’re considering a career in education, here’s why teaching abroad might be a better choice than staying in North America.

1. Cultural Immersion and Adventure

One of the most significant draws of teaching abroad is the opportunity for cultural immersion. In a country like Japan, Spain, South Korea, or Thailand, you’re not just teaching English; you’re also living in a completely different culture, learning new languages, trying new foods, and participating in traditions that may be entirely unfamiliar.

In contrast, teaching in Canada or the U.S. may feel more comfortable but lacks the same level of excitement and adventure. The opportunity to step out of your comfort zone, experience cultural diversity firsthand, and learn about your students’ traditions and values makes teaching abroad an enriching, life-enriching experience. You’ll likely be exposed to new ways of thinking and working, giving you a broader worldview that most people only get after years of travel or living overseas.

2. Job Satisfaction and Sense of Fulfillment

Teaching abroad can provide a deep sense of fulfillment in ways that teaching in North America might not. Many TEFL teachers abroad work with students who are incredibly motivated to learn English. Whether it’s young learners aiming for academic success or adults looking to improve their careers, many of these students view English as a ticket to opportunity. As a teacher, seeing your students grow and succeed feels more impactful when you realize how much of a difference you are making in their lives.

Additionally, teaching abroad often means you’re helping people who don’t have access to the same educational resources that students in Canada or the U.S. might take for granted. In many countries, English is seen as a vital skill for upward mobility, and your role as a teacher goes beyond just educating—it becomes a means of empowerment.

3. More Opportunities for Professional Growth

Teaching abroad offers various opportunities to expand your skill set, both inside and outside the classroom. Many countries value teaching experience, and working abroad will give you a chance to sharpen your skills in areas like classroom management, curriculum development, and adapting teaching methods to meet diverse learners’ needs. Additionally, as you learn about a new educational system, you’ll gain invaluable insights into how other countries approach education.

Furthermore, teaching abroad opens doors to networking with educators from around the world, allowing you to collaborate on projects, attend professional development workshops, and even gain new certifications. This global experience can enhance your resume and make you a more competitive candidate if you ever decide to return to teaching in North America.

In contrast, teaching in Canada or the U.S. may involve a more rigid curriculum with fewer opportunities for innovative practices, as the focus is often on standardized testing and meeting predetermined academic goals. International teaching, on the other hand, is often more flexible, allowing for creative and adaptable teaching methods.

4. Higher Earning Potential and Benefits

While teaching salaries in Canada or the U.S. can vary, in many cases, teaching abroad offers the potential for higher disposable income, especially when you consider the cost of living in countries where English teaching jobs are in demand. For example, countries in the Middle East like Saudi Arabia, UAE, or Qatar offer salaries that are significantly higher than what you might earn in North America, in addition to benefits like free housing, airfare allowances, and generous vacation time.

Additionally, the cost of living in many countries where TEFL teachers work is much lower than in Canada or the U.S., meaning you’ll have more money left over at the end of the month to travel, save, or enjoy local experiences. In cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Mexico City, or Hanoi, you can live comfortably on a teacher’s salary while exploring the vibrant local culture, learning the language, and even traveling to neighboring countries on weekends.

5. Work-Life Balance and Travel Opportunities

Teaching abroad provides an unmatched work-life balance. While teaching in North America may involve long hours, the demands of standardized testing, and the stress of ever-increasing administrative tasks, teaching abroad often comes with fewer pressures. In countries like Spain, South Korea, or Costa Rica, the workweek tends to be less taxing, and the emphasis on creating a healthy work-life balance is stronger. This leaves teachers with plenty of time to explore their new surroundings, meet locals, and make the most of their time abroad.

Travel opportunities are another major perk. Living abroad often means you’re situated in a prime location to visit neighboring countries, experience new cultures, and even take part in regional festivals or events. Whether you’re traveling by train across Europe, exploring the temples of Southeast Asia, or relaxing on beaches in Latin America, the opportunities for adventure are endless.

In comparison, taking time off to travel while working in Canada or the U.S. often comes with restrictions, high costs, and fewer vacation days. The stress of managing school responsibilities while trying to enjoy a holiday can dampen the experience. While TEFLing abroad every once in a while you can sit back, book an Airbnb, and enjoy the views!

6. Building Lifelong Connections and Memories

One of the greatest joys of teaching abroad is the connections you’ll make. You’ll not only bond with your students, but you’ll also meet fellow teachers from all over the world. These friendships often turn into lifelong connections, as you share the unique experience of adapting to a new culture together.

Whether you’re bonding over shared adventures or navigating cultural challenges, the relationships you build while teaching abroad can be some of the most meaningful of your life. And when it comes to creating memories, nothing compares to the feeling of exploring a new country, meeting people from diverse backgrounds, and truly immersing yourself in a foreign culture.

So what are you waiting for?

While teaching in Canada or the U.S. offers stability and familiarity, teaching abroad as a TEFL instructor provides an experience that is rich in adventure, personal growth, and professional rewards. From cultural immersion to career development, financial benefits, and opportunities for travel, teaching abroad opens up a world of possibilities that can shape your life in ways you never imagined.

So if you’re craving an exciting and fulfilling career that goes beyond the typical classroom experience, consider teaching English abroad. The world is waiting for you, and the rewards will be worth the journey.