One of the best parts about teaching English abroad is that you’re not just moving somewhere new—you’re stepping into a place you’ve probably seen on screen long before you ever booked your flight.
Whether it’s wandering through Tokyo’s neon-lit streets, exploring the ancient temples of Cambodia, or relaxing on the beaches of Thailand, many of the world’s most unforgettable movies were filmed in destinations where myTEFL graduates teach every year. If you’re dreaming about teaching abroad but haven’t decided where to go yet, why not let Hollywood help? Here are some iconic films set in—or filmed throughout—popular myTEFL placement destinations that might inspire your next adventure.
Japan – Lost in Translation (2003)
If you’ve ever imagined yourself wandering vibrant city streets surrounded by glowing neon signs, Lost in Translation delivers exactly that. Filmed throughout Tokyo, the movie captures both the excitement and quiet moments of living in one of the world’s most fascinating cities.
Beyond the famous skyline, you’ll see Shibuya Crossing, Shinjuku’s nightlife, traditional temples tucked between skyscrapers, and countless ramen shops and hidden cafés. Japan remains one of the most sought-after destinations for English teachers thanks to its incredible public transportation, rich culture, and endless opportunities to explore on weekends. Teaching there means experiencing the same neighborhoods and everyday life that made the film so memorable.
South Korea – Parasite (2019)
While Parasite tells a uniquely Korean story, it also offers a fascinating glimpse into modern Seoul. Parasite has become one of the highest-rated international films of all time.Parasite has become one of the highest-rated international films of all time. Teaching in South Korea often means living in vibrant cities filled with trendy cafés, mountain hiking trails, bustling markets, cutting-edge technology, and some of the best public transportation systems in the world.
Many first-time teachers are surprised by how easy it is to travel throughout the country, whether you’re spending weekends exploring centuries-old palaces in Seoul or catching a ferry to Jeju Island. South Korea continues to be one of myTEFL’s most popular placement destinations thanks to competitive salaries, furnished housing, and a fantastic quality of life.
Thailand – The Beach (2000)
Although many people associate Thailand with vacations, living there offers an entirely different perspective. The Beach, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, introduced audiences around the world to Thailand’s breathtaking islands, turquoise waters, and dramatic limestone cliffs.
Outside of work, many teachers spend their weekends island hopping, snorkeling, visiting floating markets, exploring ornate Buddhist temples, or sampling world-famous street food. Thailand has long been one of the most popular destinations for new TEFL teachers thanks to its welcoming culture, affordable cost of living, and endless travel opportunities.
Vietnam – Kong: Skull Island (2017)
You might not expect a monster movie to become one of the best travel advertisements ever made, but Kong: Skull Island showcases some of Vietnam’s most spectacular landscapes.
Filming locations included Ninh Bình, Hạ Long Bay, and Quảng Bình Province, all known for their dramatic mountains, caves, rivers, and lush jungles. These aren’t movie sets—they’re real destinations that teachers can visit during weekends or school holidays.
Vietnam has quickly become one of the fastest-growing TEFL destinations thanks to its affordable lifestyle, welcoming communities, incredible cuisine, and exciting cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
China – Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000)
Few films showcase China’s incredible diversity quite like Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. From towering bamboo forests to breathtaking mountain scenery, the movie highlights landscapes that stretch far beyond China’s famous megacities.
Teaching in China often provides opportunities to experience ancient temples, futuristic skylines, historic villages, high-speed rail adventures, and countless regional cuisines. With such a vast country to explore, every school break can become an entirely new adventure.
Mexico – Coco (2017)
Although animated, Coco beautifully celebrates Mexican culture, family traditions, music, and the colorful celebrations surrounding Día de los Muertos. The film is filled with authentic inspiration drawn from real Mexican towns, architecture, and customs.
Teachers in Mexico often find themselves immersed in lively festivals, bustling plazas, local markets, and welcoming communities. Outside the classroom, it’s easy to spend weekends exploring colonial cities, Pacific coast beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, or some of the country’s incredible food scenes. Mexico’s proximity to North America also makes it an appealing choice for first-time teachers looking for an accessible international experience.
Argentina – The Secret in Their Eyes (2009)
Winner of the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film, The Secret in Their Eyes showcases the atmosphere, architecture, and character of Buenos Aires while telling a gripping mystery.
Argentina offers teachers an opportunity to enjoy world-famous steak, tango performances, European-inspired neighborhoods, Patagonia adventures, and renowned wine regions. Many teachers find Argentina to be the perfect balance of exciting city life and unforgettable travel opportunities throughout South America.
Cambodia – First They Killed My Father (2017)
Directed by Angelina Jolie, First They Killed My Father was filmed throughout Cambodia and features breathtaking shots of the country’s countryside, villages, and historic sites. While the film explores a difficult period in Cambodia’s history, it also highlights the country’s remarkable resilience and beauty.
Today, Cambodia is known for its friendly people, fascinating culture, and iconic landmarks like Angkor Wat. Teachers are often drawn to Cambodia because of its relaxed pace of life, affordable cost of living, and growing demand for English educators.
Make Your Next Destination Feel Like a Movie
One of the most exciting aspects of teaching abroad is recognizing places you’ve only ever seen on screen. That famous temple, bustling market, or scenic mountain overlook suddenly becomes part of your everyday life rather than just the backdrop of a favorite film.
At myTEFL, graduates have access to teaching opportunities in destinations across Asia, Latin America, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, making it easier than ever to turn cinematic inspiration into a real-life adventure. Whether you’ve always dreamed of exploring Tokyo after watching Lost in Translation, relaxing on Thailand’s beaches after The Beach, or wandering Vietnam’s dramatic landscapes seen in Kong: Skull Island, there’s a destination waiting for you.
The next time you’re watching a movie set somewhere incredible, pay close attention to the scenery. It might not just be the setting for a great story—it could be the backdrop for your own.