Before beginning to search for roles abroad, you may already have an idea where you want to live. In my book I explain, “It is likely you will feel draw to certain countries due to previous knowledge or experience, whether that be from a holiday or a personal recommendation.” (2021, p.29).
In my experience, choosing a place to work overseas due to prior experience worked both for me and against me. When moving to Egypt, I had in my mind the experiences of a holiday there, in which a great deal of time was spent at the Red Sea Coast. Flash forward to living and working in Cairo, commuting for two hours each day to get to my school, my reality was very different. Yet, now that I have relocated to Thailand, a country which I began my international travels at 19 and have visited many times since, I continue to love and savour (almost) every experience here. The rationale for this I feel is that I have moved to an area which is itself like places I visited. Having spent time in Hua Hin prior to this move, I can see many similarities with the East Coast where I live.
Aside from my personal experience, there are many considerations you should explore when considering where in the world to work. In this blog I will list some of them, but for an in-depth discussion refer to my book (2021, pp.29-37).
The Physical Environment – do you crave the outdoors? beaches? do you need ‘western’ shopping?
AQI – if air quality concerns you check this out, it may be suprising!
Natural disasters and political unrest (governments)
Country/visa requirements
Culture of the country and the school
Internet/social media
Language
Healthcare
Transport
Moving abroad as a couple or family
Your own expectations
Make sure to research any areas of interest so you are not faced with too many surprises when you move! However, especially if this is your first international posting, be open to countries you may not have considered. After all, a school can also make or break an experience, even in a much sought-after country for travellers. I always prioritise a school and the country comes in at a close second.
New to International Teaching with Jess Gosling 