Teach English Abroad Blog
Misconceptions in Madrid
Moving to Madrid last August was my first time ever in Europe. Understandably so, I was really overwhelmed with everything I had been told about Europe, and specifically Spain, without... keep reading
Hot Take: “Culture Shock” in Thailand
TLDR; if you approach new cultures with a curious and open mind, nothing will be shocking :)
A Weekend in Seoul—A Look Inside CIEE’s Weekend Retreat!
CIEE’s Weekend Retreat is one of the many benefits of CIEE’s Teach in South Korea programs! A weekend where teachers meet in Seoul and have the chance to make friends... keep reading
Is it Possible to Live off of 1000 Euros a Month? (with a Spending Chart)
After 7 months of living in Madrid, I have finally learned how to manage my money. I also learned that it IS possible to live off of your teaching stipend... keep reading
What Do You Really Need to Take from Home? — Most and Least Essential Items
Before moving to Spain I was really concerned about what items I needed to purchase or take from home to live a comfortable life in Europe. I knew that one... keep reading
From Six Months to a Year: 10 Reasons Why I'm Saying "Yes" to Another Semester
Today marks the day I have officially signed my contract to continue teaching in Thailand for another six months! Come May, I will return to Maryvit School Pattaya to continue... keep reading
Benefits of Choosing to Teach Abroad in South Korea
For those who are interested in Korea, teaching here is a unique opportunity for personal growth through immersion in a new culture and its people. Outside of the cultural aspects... keep reading
A School Day in the Life of an Auxiliar de Conversación (Madrid)
I read the news today, oh boy… Just kidding, this isn’t a Beatles song. It’s a post about a day in the life as an auxiliar de conversación in Madrid... keep reading
Getting Started in Spain
Moving to another country can give you so much to think about that it’s hard to know where to begin. Nevertheless, you move to Spain one step at a time... keep reading
bienvenidos y welcome
Hello to all who have ventured into a very amateur but very enthusiastic blog:)) Although I've been planning different blogs for a little while now, actually posting them has taken... keep reading
CIEE Korea Spotlight: Aric P.
Aric is a CIEE alum who has taught in CIEE’s Teach in South Korea and Teach in Thailand programs. Read about Aric’s experience in South Korea: Where were you placed... keep reading
Can You Ethically See Elephants in Thailand?
One of my most embarrassing moments in Thailand occurred at the beginning of my time here. At orientation, when people would ask what my goals are while in Thailand, I... keep reading
How Living Abroad in Spain Brings Personal Growth
Traveling to Spain for the first time with CIEE has truly been an experience of a lifetime. Besides it's stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and historical heritage, you can gain something very valuable from this country. In hindsight, living in Madrid can contribute to your personal growth. Among the many benefits of living abroad, you begin to see that you are becoming more self-reliant, make friends from all over the world and are suddenly comfortable in taking risks.
CIEE: Top trips to go when teaching aboard
The best thing to look forward to when a long weekend or break comes up when teaching aboard is the opportunity to travel around, discover new places, and have fun. There are different types of trips to take when teaching aboard. You can take one for a weekend getaway, one for just a day, or one to another country.
Skyler B. Introduction
I'm Skyler, I'm 23 years old, and I have been living in Spain for six months. I’m thoughtful, easygoing, and adventurous, and I’m excited to bring you on my post-collegiate journey abroad!
Gamcheon, the town of and for modeling your friends
Considering making your way to Gamcheon? Get there early to beat the crowd and get lost quickly to take some of the best photos of your time in Korea. The little town by the water is a great stop to make for any weekend trip to Busan.
Getting Around Thailand
Navigating a new country can be one of the more intimidating factors when moving abroad. I'm here to tell you, it gets easier! Here are a few tips and tricks I have learned in my five months here.
A Weekend in Shanghai—A Look Inside CIEE’s Weekend Retreat!
CIEE’s Weekend Retreat is one of the many benefits of the Teach in China programs! A weekend where teachers meet in Shanghai and have the chance to make friends and... keep reading
Top Trips to Take While Teaching in South Korea
Living in South Korea as an EPIK teacher offers numerous travel opportunities both domestically and internationally that I never could have experienced while living in the US. Within my short... keep reading
How to Lesson Plan for Kindergarteners in Thailand
I am not a teacher. I majored in Art History in college, so teaching in Thailand is my first time in the classroom. That said, this experience has been a... keep reading
Living in Yeosu (여 수)
If someone were to ask you to name one city located in South Korea, perhaps the first cities to cross your mind are " Seoul/서울" and " Busan/ 부산." These are the foreigner-friendly hotspots. They have excellent nightlife, shops, and fun activities to do. This was me before I was placed in the beautiful city of Yeosu (여 수) to begin my teaching abroad journey. As someone who started with limited knowledge of Korea, I didn't know what to expect from a city I never heard of. I want to introduce this underrated city I have called home for 6 months, which now holds a special place in my heart.
Solo Trip to Chiang Mai: My 2 1/2 Days Itinerary
I am an introvert. I always have been and always will be. When I was younger, people would underestimate me, my intelligence, and my competence just because I was quiet... keep reading
How Different are Spanish Schools to American Schools?
My understanding of Spanish primary schools is that they are mostly very similar to schools in the United States. The children are just as adorable (and rowdy), the teachers work... keep reading
Spain, Through my Tiny Camera
I explore Spain through the lens of my low quality but adorable tiny camera.
CIEE China Spotlight: Meet Erik!
Erik is currently teaching in Chongqing, China! Read to learn more about his experience teaching English abroad and his life in China. Why China? Have you been before? I played... keep reading
Happy Lunar New Year!
The 2024 Lunar New Year began on February 10th. Lunar New Year is also known as Spring Festival in China or Seollal in South Korea . This Lunar New Year... keep reading
I Broke Off My Engagement and Moved Across the World.
If you are looking for a sign to apply for the teaching job, this is it.
Yes, better than the others? It's Daejeon!
A quick love letter for my home away from home. Daejeon is a hop, skip and a jump from everywhere in South Korea, and has everything my lifestyle needs. I hope you consider Daejeon for placement!
The Ultimate Pre-Departure Checklist for Teaching in Thailand
An ultimate guide for preparing to go abroad that includes a weekly to-do list.
Living in Gangwon Province
Gangwon-do is a mountainous province in northeast South Korea. Just a few hours from Seoul, many Koreans come to Gangwon province for vacations, hiking, skiing, to go to the beach... keep reading
What’s Next: Steps After Accepting an EPIK Placement
Remember feeling nervous about your interview with EPIK and that nervousness you felt waiting on the results. Not to mention waiting weeks and weeks to see where your journey would start in South Korea. Now, you finally have your placement to begin your journey as a native English teacher in South Korea, but what now? Can you purchase your plane ticket to South Korea now? Sorry, not quite yet. Before looking up the cheapest flight, you must complete a few things.
What’s It Like Teaching English at a Public School in South Korea?
Children run by yelling “Hello teacher!” one after another as I put on my work slippers. There are many differences between schools in the US compared to South Korea. I... keep reading
Day in the Life of Teaching English Abroad in Thailand
Fun fact: Thailand is the only country in Southeast Asia not colonized by Europeans. Ancient traditions, tranquil mountain tops, sparkling beaches, and shopping malls spanning an entire block fill this... keep reading
10 Things I Learned in My First 10 Days in Madrid
Even though I’m here in Madrid to teach English to others, this experience has taught me a lot already. Some of the things I’ve learned are small (see #9 about... keep reading
Settling In: Confronting Homesickness Overseas
Every time I tell someone I moved to Italy for six months to study Italian, I receive nothing but praise and fascination with my life of traveling and learning. Similarly... keep reading
Challenges of Living and Teaching Abroad in South Korea
Who thought teaching abroad was a simple and care-free decision - As if! Now, let me introduce you to some of the challenges that you can expect to encounter while... keep reading
The Best One-Day Itinerary for Chiang Rai, Thailand
Whether you are looking for serene temples, bustling markets, and breathtaking scenery, Chiang Rai offers a perfect blend of ancient wonders and modern charm. According to 12 Go Asia, the... keep reading
Teaching Kindergarten!
Curious about what teaching kindergarten entails? This post talks about what my days usually look like as a K1 and K2 teacher in Thailand.
No Paws Just A Passport
What do you miss the most while being abroad? Most people say peanut butter, flu medicine, or pancakes. The thing I miss the most while being overseas are my dogs! This blog post is how I try to see the positives while missing my furry friends back in the states, and making some new ones here in Spain!
How to See the "Sea" in North Thailand
Thailand is home to stunning beaches with crystal clear water and silky white sands. The Southern islands have enthralled tourists looking to escape to the warm waves of the Thai... keep reading
How I'm Preparing to Teach in Spain: Part Three
Hello again! This is the third and final part of my getting-ready-for-Spain series, because tomorrow is going to be full of last-minute packing and prep. I’m Getting Ready to Aux... keep reading
How I'm Preparing to Teach in Spain: Part Two
Welcome back! I’m continuing to blog about my pre-departure preparations. Here are some more things I’m doing to get ready: I’m Adjusting My Expectations Last time we talked about how... keep reading
How I'm Preparing to Teach in Spain: Part One
Hello, there! My name is Sydney, and in two days I’m set to go to Spain as an auxiliar de conversación . This is my second time living abroad (I... keep reading
What You Should and Should Not Pack for Thailand
How do you pack to move to another country for six months? I asked myself this question a million times per day as I prepared to depart for Thailand and... keep reading
How to Survive the Holidays Abroad
Not Home for the Holidays Hot chocolate, snowflakes, and cozy sweaters- these are what come to mind when I think about the holidays in the US. Here in Thailand, that... keep reading
What It’s Like to Teach English in a Private School in South Korea
Teaching abroad can be a very exciting and rewarding opportunity. However, in order to make it to the fun part, you must first make the incredibly important decision between Public... keep reading
Traveling Hacking Europe on a Budget
As an American, traveling to Europe is expensive and time consuming, but living in Europe makes European travel a lot easier and a lot cheaper. When working as an aux I recommend taking advantage of this and doing as much travel as possible around Europe during your time in Madrid. Here I share some travel hacking tips!
The Beginning of my Madrid Adventure
Hello, my name is Zoe. Welcome to my first blog post! My passion has always been traveling. I have always dreamed of a life where I could explore the world... keep reading
I’m dedicating a song to my favorite parks of Madrid because I want to
You're welcome for soundtracking your next stroll.
What I Eat as a Teacher in Thailand
Who doesn't love Thai food? Pad Thai, fried rice, curries. As long as it's not too spicy, I love it all! Well, I loved Americanized Thai food, at least. Of... keep reading
Living like a Local- 4 day Weekend in Koh Chang
@laurenemiilyy I HELD A BALL OF FIRE ♬ 2GOOD4U - Marluxiam One of the benefits of living in a country longer term, like CIEE’s 6-month English teaching program, is that... keep reading
CIEE Teach in Spain + TEFL Panel Discussion
On December 13th, 2023 we hosted a webinar with 5 of our current CIEE Teach in Spain participants! They walked us through their life abroad. We loved hearing their reflections... keep reading
The Best Ways to Experience Koh Chang: Thailand's Often Overlooked Island.
One of the obvious lures to teaching in Thailand is the opportunity to see picturesque landscapes, stunning islands, lush jungles, and vast forests. Before coming to Thailand, like many others... keep reading
Living in Moncloa as an Auxiliar de Conversación
Moncloa has a lot to offer, from fun activities to easy errands.
Navigating the Emotional Rollercoaster of Adulting Abroad
“The scary news is… you’re on your own now. But the cool news is… You’re on your own now!” ~Taylor Swift Living Abroad is Fun, but it’s also Difficult Nobody... keep reading
A Solo Adventure: Chasing Waterfalls and Wildlife at Khao Yai
This past weekend was my first long weekend off from school since Tuesday, December 5th was the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s birthday and Father's Day. Our school gave us both... keep reading
From Sunrise to Sunset: A Typical Day as an English Teacher in Thailand
Finally, after being in Thailand for about two months, my daily life has settled down from the hectic running around filling out paperwork to a somewhat regular schedule. I emphasize... keep reading
Revised Packing List
Trying to figure out what to pack for Thailand and wished for a more comprehensive list? Here is what I brought from home, what I could have done without, and what I wished I brought. Hope this helps!