What Countries Don't Celebrate Valentine's Day

Before we look at this question closely, we should first make an important distinction. The number of hours you teach in the classroom (often called contact hours) are not the same as the number of hours you will be expected to be in school, often confusingly called contract hours. Next, it is important to appreciate that different teaching jobs have different typical hours. There are basically three types of jobs available. Most schools abroad work normal office hours so you will probably need to be in school, Monday to Friday, from 7:30 a.m. (in many Asian countries) until 4:00 p.m. This equates to around 40 hours per week. You will not have to teach for all of those hours but a typical teaching load would be around 20-25 hours per week. When you are not teaching you will be expected to...  [Read more]

Chile’s economy is relatively healthy compared to other Latin American countries, and the demand for TEFL Jobs in Chile has grown along with the economy. The market for positions teaching business English is thriving, and there is a growing demand for teachers to teach younger learners of English. Chile has lots of private language academies, especially in Santiago, the capital. If you have a well recognized TEFL certificate, you shouldn’t have difficulty finding an adequate job. Schools advertise TEFL jobs in Chile frequently on major TEFL web sites. It’s a good idea to contact these schools six months before you plan to arrive in Chile. Make sure you provide them with a professional resume that is up to date and that emphasizes your education, TEFL experience and training and your...  [Read more]

TEFL International’s course in Brazil is located in Natal--one of the most amazing cities in the entire country. Natal is easily reached from both North America and Europe, enjoys perfect weather all year round, has been found to have the best air quality in all of the Americas and is blessed with more than 20 spectacular beaches, along with their crystal clear waters and stunning coral reefs. Known as the “City of Sun”, Natal will not disappoint you. Each year, thousands of visitors come to take in the calm ocean, wonderful climate and gorgeous dunes. It even has local water parks that cater to kids and adults of all ages. During the week, you’ll receive some of the best training you’ll find in South America, while over the weekends, you can laze your days away under the...  [Read more]

Our TEFL course in Guatemala is located in one of Central America’s best-kept secrets. La Antigua is a thriving former capital and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Throughout the city you can find well preserved examples of colonial architecture as well as fascinating ruins and the city has rightly been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A visit to Guatemala is like stepping into another world with Mayan ruins, colonial buildings and cobbled streets all resting in the shadows of magnificent volcanoes. At 1,500 meters (5,000 feet) above sea level, La Antigua’s location in the central highlands of Guatemala make it the ideal jumping off point for trips to the Pacific coast, the beautiful Lake Atitlan and the Mayan ruins in Tikal. In addition to all that...  [Read more]

Teaching English as a Foreign Language is a career that is open to anyone with an excellent standard of written and spoken English, regardless of age, nationality, or academic history. All you need, apart from a solid understanding of the language, is a TEFL or TESOL certification and the drive to make your dreams come true. However, despite all the many benefits that await teachers heading overseas, there are also a few potential issues that you need to prepare for. So what are the main pros and cons of TEFL? Once you have completed your TEFL certification course you will be able to apply for teaching jobs in virtually any country you can think of. If you dream of living and working by a tropical beach, or if a major world city such as Tokyo, Milan, or Rio is your preference, no problem,...  [Read more]

The worldwide market for teaching English abroad covers dozens of countries and many types of employer. In some situations it is normal to complete the recruitment process before leaving home, including an interview conducted via Skype or phone. However, in many of the most popular destinations employers prefer to recruit their teachers via face-to-face interviews on the school premises. While each interviewer will have their own criteria for choosing the right candidate, there are a few simple steps you can follow to give yourself the best chance of securing the job. It is said that it only takes seven seconds to form a first impression, so it is vitally important that you get the basics right to avoid blowing the interview before it has even got going. Rule number one is simple:...  [Read more]

TEFL International’s teacher training course in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica is simply incredible. Besides training for your internationally recognized TEFL certificate, you’ll immerse yourself in lush jungle, swim in turquoise waters and relax on some of the most stunning beaches in the entire world. Costa Rica is an absolutely amazing country and TEFL International is one of the most recognized and well-established training centers in the industry. It’s no wonder our course in Manuel Antonio has become so popular with people who wish to see the world from a new perspective. Once trained and certified, our teachers are able to travel to distant destinations and experience cultures in ways the average traveler could only envy.     Because it’s located on the Pacific Coast,...  [Read more]

Earn your teaching certificate in beautiful Prague Our training center in the Czech Republic provides the ideal location to earn your TEFL certification in magnificent Prague. This modern capital city offers an incredible opportunity to work and live surrounded by rich heritage and culture. We are a select, professional school run by highly experienced and qualified trainers. We combine the personal attention of a small course with the facilities, support and insider knowledge of one of the most established and respected language schools in Prague. Our trainees will have the chance to meet teachers in the staffroom and pick their brains about TEFL teaching and life in Prague or other countries. As a language school with more than 20 years of experience, we can provide trainees with useful...  [Read more]

  In this video Linda explains the differences between "assure", "insure" and "ensure". They not only sound similar, but those three words also make an outcome sure but they are in no way interchangeable. "Assure" is used to speak out a promise or say something with confidence, for example "I assure you that he is a great lawyer". "Ensure" is used to make something certain, such as here: "Please ensure that you will be home at five o'clock today"."Insure" means to protect an object against risk by buying an insurance policy from an insurance company, like here: "I insure my television because it was expensive". Once you have realized the three different meanings and usages, there is no way you'll confuse them again. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one...  [Read more]

  This video covers the difference between 'figuratively' and 'literally'. Even native speakers commonly confuse these two words. The word 'figuratively' is used when talking about something metaphorically. 'Literally', on the other hand is used for things that are real or really happen. Watch the video for detailed examples on the two words. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into concise units that focus on specific areas of English language teaching. This convenient, highly structured design means that you can quickly get to grips with each section before moving onto the next. In this unit I learned about each specific type of the parts of speech....  [Read more]

ITTT’s Chongqing TEFL training center gives attendees the chance to study an in-class TEFL course in just three weeks. This is the perfect option for trainees who want to attend a classroom based course but have time restrictions. Chongqing is a busy industrial city in southwest China located on the Yangzi River. The city has a population of over 18 million people and is an important transport hub and manufacturing base. Famous for its spicy cuisine which makes extensive use of Sichuan pepper, Chongqing attracts visitors from all over the country looking to try its most famous dish, Chongqing hot pot. This spicy broth is available at thousands of hot pot restaurants around the city and is celebrated in a yearly hot pot festival when over ten thousand hot pot restaurants give discounts...  [Read more]

Job interviews are notorious for causing anxiety, but if you know what to expect and you prepare accordingly you should find they are not as bad as you are expecting. The essential nature of any interview is to show that you are confident in your teaching ability, keen to get started, and able to fit into the existing workforce. By doing some research and planning in advance, you should be able to demonstrate all of this and land the job on the spot. The worldwide market for teaching English abroad covers dozens of countries and many types of employer. In some situations it is normal to complete the recruitment process before leaving home, including an interview conducted via Skype or phone. However, in many of the most popular destinations employers prefer to recruit their teachers...  [Read more]

  Choosing a TEFL certification course can be a difficult decision as there is no standardized duration of training or a fixed syllabus for providers to adhere to. This seemingly free-for-all situation means there are a multitude of companies offering a wide range of courses of varying quality. The good news is there are several long established TEFL course providers out there who do offer high quality courses that provide all the skills and knowledge you need to start a new career as an EFL teacher. So what should you look for when choosing the right course for you? The overall length of the course is a good place to start. There are many providers who offer short format online courses of 40 hours or even less, as well as in-class courses that can be completed in one weekend...  [Read more]

TEFL International’s course in Chiapas is nestled alongside the Mexican states of Veracruz, Tabasco and Oaxaca. It also borders Guatemala and flanks the Pacific Ocean. Our center is in a quaint colonial town in west-central Chiapas. According to Lonely Planet, it’s a town with an easy-going, provincial air. The summary is accurate but the town is overlooked by most tourists—which is great for sustaining authentic local customs. We might be located in a small town but we’ve got big things in store for you upon your arrival. We’re located about 20 minutes away from the state capital. On the weekends you can tour up a nearby mountain to San Cristobal. The town is home to ancient ruins and beautiful lakes. If you wish to make a longer trip, feel free to visit the world-renowned Mayan...  [Read more]

  Chelci completed her course with ITTT and is now teaching at a school in South Korea. In this TESOL review video she shows us how the school day ends as students finish studying for the day. Completing a TEFL TESOL course with ITTT enables you to work all over the world as an English teacher and is a great way to experience new countries and cultures. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into concise units that focus on specific areas of English language teaching. This convenient, highly structured design means that you can quickly get to grips with each section before moving onto the next. wow this was quite a complicated and enlightening unit! I...  [Read more]

Chiang Mai is the capital city of northern Thailand and it was once the center of the ancient Lanna Kingdom. It was founded in the 13th century and is one of the oldest cities in Thailand. The Lanna Kingdom might not exist in the 21st century, but shadows of its rich culture can still be seen today. The outskirts of Chiang Mai are full of small mountains, meandering rivers, gentle waterfalls and countless Buddhist monasteries. If you’re looking for a great experience while conducting your teacher training, Chiang Mai is a great choice for your TEFL International course. Chiang Mai is an essential destination for anyone visiting Thailand. It sits roughly 350 miles northwest of Bangkok and offers countless temples to visit—more than 120 are within city limits. The Old Town is surrounded...  [Read more]

Tashkent is Uzbekistan’s capital city and is based in the east of the country. With a population of around 2.5 million people it is Uzbekistan’s and Central Asia’s largest city. Tashkent became the capital of the Republic of Uzbekistan in 1991 after the collapse of the Soviet Union. Tashkent’s architecture is a testament to its rich, interesting history and culture. The city’s exhibition halls and metro stations have unique and fascinating styles, which never fail to amaze visitors. To truly experience local Tashkent life you should head to one of the local markets where locals meet and socialize in addition to doing their shopping. Tashkent’s nightlife is growing and the city is place to find the best clubs, restaurants and teahouses Uzbekistan. Food lovers will find...  [Read more]

Choose to take TEFL International’s certificate course in Kathmandu, and you’ll be on top of the world. Kathmandu is Nepal’s capital and home to a dozen ethnicities. The country is known for its warm-hearted citizens, its proximity to the world’s tallest mountain chain and for its devout Buddhist practices. Kathmandu is truly a magical place and anyone who’s been there will attest to this. But don’t take their word for it, sign up for the course now and come see it for yourself. Nepal’s scenery is breathtaking. Eight of the ten highest mountain peaks in the world are in Nepal and of course it’s home to Mount Everest. While these climbs are not for the average traveler, you’re welcome to get out and experience some of the best hiking the world has to offer. Although not...  [Read more]

If you crave adventure and a lifestyle that’s out of the ordinary, Phnom Penh, Cambodia is the perfect location to launch your ‘teach English abroad’ journey. The transformation of Cambodia over the past three decades from a country characterised by occupation and trouble, to a Southeast Asian powerhouse, is phenomenal. There’s an insatiable demand for English language skills in Cambodia - and a chronic shortage of TEFL qualified people to teach English. What does this mean for people just like you? Simple! It means opportunities galore. Phnom Penh is the capital city of Cambodia and the nation’s international gateway. With a population of around 2.5 million people and a relatively confined central business district, it has a noticeably slower pace of life than you’ll find in...  [Read more]

Are you looking to shed those extra pounds and improve your overall health? Incorporating clean eating into your weight loss routine is a great way to achieve your goals. By focusing on whole, unprocessed foods and cutting out added sugars and unhealthy fats, you can kickstart your metabolism, boost your energy levels, and feel better both inside and out. 1. The Benefits of Clean Eating 2. How to Get Started with Clean Eating 3. Clean Eating Meal Ideas 4. Tips for Success Clean eating involves consuming foods in their most natural state, free from additives, preservatives, and artificial ingredients. By choosing whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, you provide your body with the essential nutrients it needs to function at its best. This can lead to improved...  [Read more]

TEFL International’s center in Cebu sits only minutes from white-sand beaches and crystal blue waters. As one of the most highly developed provinces in the Philippines, Cebu acts as the heart of education, trade, and commerce for the central and southern portions of the archipelago. Despite all its growth, Cebu has retained its culture as well. It’s this combination of factors that makes Cebu an incredibly dynamic and exciting choice of location for your teacher training. Aside from careful development and great seascapes, Cebu comes from a distant past. 30,000 years ago the area was a series of land bridges that played a critical part in the migration of humans. When the bridges were covered with ocean, the island of Cebu was formed. Ferdinand Magellan visited the area in 1521 but...  [Read more]

Kolkata, is famous for its literary, artistic and cultural heritage. It was once India’s capital city and is still home to exquisite buildings, museums and galleries. Held in high esteem by locals and known as the ‘City of Joy’, Kolkata offers an unforgettable experience for anyone who takes our TEFL International certification course here. Along with Mumbai, Delhi and Chennai, Kolkata is one of the four main cities in India. It was once the headquarters for the British Raj during colonial rule in India and therefore, Victorian architecture can be seen from many points in the city. It is also commonly referred to as the nation’s intellectual capital. Kolkata offers plenty of activities for trainees during their downtime. You can take a morning stroll over Howrah Bridge—the...  [Read more]

TEFL International’s center in Seville is an absolutely wonderful choice to gain certification for teaching. Seville is the capital of Andalusia, Spain’s southern region, and also one of Europe’s most historic cities. Majestic monuments and beautiful buildings can be seen around every corner of Seville’s tiny streets and main avenues. From the minaret of La Giraldo, to the Alcazar Palace, the city’s monuments stand as testimony to Seville’s rich history and fascinating heritage. Seville is well-known for its exuberance as well as being one of Europe’s most captivating towns. Seville’s vitality comes from its witty and gregarious citizens. Stylish, ancient, intimate and fun-loving, Seville and its people will delight you. Seville also offers some of the best food in all of...  [Read more]

TEFL International’s course in Granada is magical. It’s one of UNESCO’s World Heritage sites and home to the majestic Alhambra Palace. Added to this, it’s the former capital of Moorish Spain and the Moors’ influences are seen everywhere. From monuments and churches to homes and palaces, history and intrigue will surround you every day of your stay. Today, Granada is a larger town rather than a small village. Despite its growth, it has retained its ancient charm. It is also a popular university town with vibrant nightlife to compliment its variety of eateries, theaters and clubs. Located in the Andalucia region, and nestled between the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the Costa del Sol, Granada is also geographically unique. You’ll never run out of things to do or see. Opportunities...  [Read more]

Ban Phe is the perfect choice for anyone looking to experience a very authentic slice of Thai culture. This quiet and relaxing fishing village sits alongside the Gulf of Thailand’s beautiful beaches, yet has somehow escaped the tourist trappings of nearby Pattaya and Bangkok. And if an island adventure is on your list of things to do, Ban Phe is the jumping off point for idyllic, Ko Samet (Samet Island) while Ko Chang (Elephant Island) is only a morning’s journey away. Immerse yourself in Ban Phe and you immerse yourself in Thai life. Enchanting and exciting, taking a teacher training course in Ban Phe will no doubt prove to be a rewarding experience. You’ll not only learn how to teach, you’ll witness a very real pocket of Thai culture. TEFL International’s course in Ban Phe...  [Read more]

TEFL International’s course in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) is a fantastic choice for earning your certification to teaching English. Jobs are plentiful in Vietnam, Asia and the rest of the world if you wish to travel beyond local borders after the course. HCMC is the biggest and most vibrant city in Vietnam. Some still refer to it as Saigon but regardless of what it’s called, both the city, and our course will not disappoint you. Take leisurely strolls down neighborhood streets and you’ll find a plethora of tea shops, cafes, markets and canals—not to mention, a bustling population unlike anywhere else in the world. HCMC has a recent and world-famous past so an abundance of attractions await anyone who takes our course. Visit the Historical Museum with artifacts ranging from the Bronze...  [Read more]

There are many reasons why people take a gap year and there is no particular best time to do it. You might have just finished high school or university and are unsure what you want to do next. You might already be in work, but are bored of the daily routine and looking for a break. Whatever your reason for taking a few months, a year, or even longer away from your existing life, it could be the best decision you ever made. After being away for a while you should find you have time to reflect on the past, enjoy your present, and most importantly, make well thought out plans for your future. Initially many people assume that teaching English during a gap year is simply a good way to earn some cash while traveling from place to place. However, there are many reasons why teaching abroad is a...  [Read more]

Florence will take your breath away. As the capital city of Tuscany, it has everything you could hope for: history, the arts, architecture, cuisine, theater, wine and the opera. Even the most experienced traveler knows that when it comes to the great cities of Italy, Florence tops the list. Over the years, Florence has proven to be a very popular and highly regarded location to gain your tefl certification. It’s got something to please everyone—especially those with a flair for the Arts. Florence houses a disproportionately high number of Italy’s fine art collections and Italy itself is home to over 60% of the world’s most important artworks. As the birthplace of The Renaissance, influences from Raphael, Botticelli, and Da Vinci are everywhere. From the Galleria Degli Uffizi to...  [Read more]

For many people, quintessential Greece is what comes to mind when they think of the beautiful island of Santorini, the most southern of the Cyclades islands. The island is actually made up of 5 islands, with Santorini being joined by Thirasia and Aspronisi and the volcanic islands of Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni. With stunning scenery all around you, Santorini really is an ideal place to take your TEFL course. During the volcanic eruptions of 1866-1870, the area was visited by Jules Verne. He then immortalized Santorini in his books “Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea” and “The Mysterious Island’. Here captain Nemo and his crew watched the famous eruptions. The Caldera View is one of the most breathtaking sites in the entire world. The Santorini Caldera view includes 85-meter...  [Read more]

Bangkok is a vibrant, hectic and awe inspiring Asian metropolis with gleaming sky scrapers rising above the incense infused air of the local Buddhist temple. Traditional floating markets are a short trip from 21st Century shopping malls selling the latest fashions and technology. The city is also home to some of the top restaurants in the region if not the world and its street food is delicious, cheap and available almost everywhere. The city is the gravitational centre of the country and attracts Thais from all over the kingdom with the promise of work as well as good schools and universities. As such, it is a great place to experience the unique cultures of the different parts of the country. ITTT’s Bangkok TEFL training course takes place in a working English language school that...  [Read more]