Ecuador Festival Chicago

Bordered by Colombia to the north, Peru to the east and south and the Pacific Ocean to the west, Ecuador is the smallest country in the Andean region. Despite this it covers a wide range of geographical features from the coastal plains to the peaks of the Andes, the rainforest of the Amazon and the Galápagos Islands made famous by Charles Darwin. Its capital city sits at 2,850 meters above sea level on the slopes of an active volcano. It’s the highest capital city in the world and was one of the first to be named as a World Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO due to its large and well preserved historic center. One of the main attractions of Ecuador is its rich biodiversity with thousands of species of plants, insects and animals and hundreds of thousands of tourists visit Ecuador every...  [Read more]

  Bordered by Colombia to the north, Peru to the east and south and the Pacific Ocean to the west, Ecuador is the smallest country in the Andean region. Despite this it covers a wide range of geographical features from the coastal plains to the peaks of the Andes, the rainforest of the Amazon and the Galápagos Islands made famous by Charles Darwin. Its capital city sits at 2,850 meters above sea level on the slopes of an active volcano. It’s the highest capital city in the world and was one of the first to be named as a World Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO due to its large and well preserved historic center. One of the main attractions of Ecuador is its rich biodiversity with thousands of species of plants, insects and animals and hundreds of thousands of tourists visit Ecuador...  [Read more]

  Ecuador has seen a significant increase in demand for ESL teachers in recent years. Pay rates may be as low as US$5 per hour, but with a very low cost of living an average monthly salary of $500 to $1,000 should be enough to live comfortably.  [Read more]

Our training center in Ecuador is located in the city of Loja, the capital of Loja Province in the south of the country. Loja is a peaceful city known as the Music and Cultural capital of Ecuador because of its rich tradition in the arts with public art dotted throughout the city and an extremely active music scene. There are many examples of colonial architecture such as the beautiful Church of San Sebastian and the city gates. Throughout the year there is always some kind of musical or cultural event taking place in one of the city’s squares and it is always a pleasure to wander around the cobbled streets taking in the atmosphere and enjoying the entertainment. Just ten minutes outside of the city is the Podocarpus National Park, a large cloud forest covering over 1460 square...  [Read more]

When it comes to teaching English in Latin America, countries such as Chile, Costa Rica, and Mexico tend to get the most coverage. However, there are several other countries in the region that have seen a significant growth in demand for foreign teachers in recent years, including Ecuador. Boasting a wide range of fascinating environments to explore, from the Andean Mountains to the Amazon rainforest, Ecuador is a truly unique destination for teaching English abroad. Teaching positions can be found in abundance in big cities such as Quito, Guayaquil, and Cuenca, as well as in smaller numbers in other towns and cities across the country. As is the case in much of Latin America, salaries for foreign teachers in Ecuador are quite low in comparison to many other parts of the world....  [Read more]

When considering the best countries for TEFL teachers who enjoy nature and wildlife, several destinations stand out for their natural beauty and diverse ecosystems. One popular choice is Costa Rica, known for its lush rainforests, exotic wildlife, and commitment to conservation. Teaching English in Costa Rica offers opportunities to explore national parks, spot colorful birds and monkeys, and immerse oneself in the country's eco-friendly culture. Another top destination is Thailand, with its stunning beaches, tropical jungles, and vibrant marine life. TEFL teachers in Thailand can enjoy weekends snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, hiking to waterfalls, or visiting elephant sanctuaries. The country's warm climate and welcoming locals make it a popular choice for nature lovers looking to...  [Read more]

If you're a TEFL teacher who loves nature, there are several countries that offer incredible natural landscapes and outdoor opportunities that can enhance your teaching experience. From lush rainforests to stunning beaches and majestic mountains, teaching English in these countries will allow you to immerse yourself in nature while making a difference in the lives of your students. One of the best countries for TEFL teachers who love nature is Costa Rica. Known for its biodiversity and eco-friendly policies, Costa Rica offers teachers the chance to explore tropical rainforests, volcanoes, and pristine beaches during their time off. Teaching English in Costa Rica also provides opportunities to engage with local communities and learn about sustainable living practices firsthand. Another top...  [Read more]

If you are a TEFL teacher who enjoys rural living, there are several countries that could be a perfect fit for you. One of the top countries for TEFL teachers who prefer a rural setting is Thailand. With its beautiful countryside, friendly locals, and low cost of living, Thailand offers a unique experience for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Teaching opportunities are abundant in rural areas, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and way of life. Another great option for TEFL teachers who enjoy rural living is Vietnam. With its stunning landscapes, peaceful villages, and delicious cuisine, Vietnam provides a tranquil setting for those seeking a slower pace of life. Teaching English in rural schools in Vietnam can be a rewarding experience, allowing...  [Read more]

Acronyms are widely used within the English language teaching world and EFL is one of the most common. English as a Foreign Language is typically used to describe any scenario where English is being taught or learned in a country where English is not the main language. In this situation most students are learning English as part of their school studies, in order to travel overseas, or as a hobby, and they rarely get to use it outside of their lessons. An example of EFL would be an American teaching English to Italians in Rome. While EFL stands for English as a Foreign Language, ESL stands for English as a Second Language. In practice these two acronyms are regularly used interchangeably when talking about English teaching, however, there is a genuine difference between the two that you...  [Read more]

TEFL teachers who have a passion for diverse ecosystems have a plethora of countries to choose from for teaching opportunities. Each country offers its unique blend of landscapes, wildlife, and environments, making the teaching experience both rewarding and enriching. Below are some of the best countries for TEFL teachers who enjoy diverse ecosystems: 1. **Costa Rica**: Known for its rich biodiversity, Costa Rica is a paradise for nature lovers. TEFL teachers can explore lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and active volcanoes while immersing themselves in the local culture. The country's commitment to conservation makes it an ideal destination for those interested in environmental sustainability. 2. **Australia**: With its iconic Outback, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse wildlife,...  [Read more]

  The next example is going to be that of a boomerang lesson and remember the structure is like this. So, again, we're going to start with an engage phase and for our engage, the students are just going to have a discussion about jobs. What happens at interviews and so on and so forth. So, during that engage phase, what we'd hope to do is to elicit some useful language about jobs and interviews and the types of questions that are being asked. Then, we're going to move immediately into an activate activity and this is going to involve a role-play. So, we'll break the students into pairs. One will be an interviewer, the other will be an interviewee and they'll generate the language that that role-play will produce. What the teacher can do whilst that is taking place is to go around...  [Read more]

If you are over 50 and looking to liven things up and add a bit of adventure into your life, teaching English abroad could be the perfect answer. For many people turning 50 can be a time to really consider your place in the world and plenty of people decide that hitting the road is the way to go. Sure, you can quit your job and jump on a plane to explore the world, but how about earning some money while doing it and even making a positive change to other peoples lives at the same time? The short and simple answer to this common question is YES, there is very little stopping almost anyone of any age from teaching English overseas. Although it is true that most government-run teaching programs such as those found in Japan, South Korea, France, and Spain, have an age limit that restricts...  [Read more]

Spain is one of the most popular TEFL destinations in Europe and it attracts thousands of teachers from all over the world every year. However, before you jump on the plane to sunny Spain, you might want to consider what Latin America has to offer. When armed with all the facts, many teachers decide that a country in this region is actually better suited to them. One of the many benefits of teaching English abroad is it provides a perfect opportunity to learn another language during your stay. Many people choose Spain as their teaching destination as they assume it is the best environment for learning the Spanish language. However, the reality is that the Spanish spoken in Spain uses an accent and slang that is very different to anywhere else, to the point that Spanish speakers from other...  [Read more]

  The state of Ohio is located in the Great Lakes region, and is known as the ‘Buckeye State’ due to an abundance of the local buckeye tree. Locals and visitors from around the globe come to Ohio to dive into the wonders of this fascinating state. Many stand in awe at the amazing earthworks built by early humans known as the Great Serpent Mound. Ohio’s rich natural resources also mean there is an abundance of wildlife to enjoy throughout the state. With Lake Erie in the north and the mighty Ohio River in the south, the State of Ohio has been a prosperous location for thousands of years. With four distinct seasons, there is always something to do in Ohio. In 74 State Parks, over 130 State Nature Preserves, and the famous Cuyahoga Valley National Park, visitors can enjoy all kinds...  [Read more]

Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) is a rewarding profession that offers educators the opportunity to engage with diverse cultures while imparting language skills. For teachers with a passion for cultural exchange, there are several countries that stand out as ideal destinations to teach English. These countries not only provide a rich cultural experience but also offer a supportive environment for TEFL teachers to thrive. Asia is a popular destination for TEFL teachers seeking cultural immersion. Countries like Japan, South Korea, China, and Thailand are known for their vibrant cultures, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals. Japan, for example, offers a unique blend of traditional and modern living, with opportunities to explore ancient temples and bustling city streets....  [Read more]

There are plenty of great reasons to take your TEFL International certification course in Malaga: real Spanish traditions and festivals are everywhere, great art, fine food, beautiful beaches and spectacular weather are just a few reasons why you’ll love it here. Malaga is the capital of Costa del Sol—a wonderful region in southern Spain along the Mediterranean coast. The sun shines more than 300 day a year and Malaga is preparing to be elected as the European City of Culture by 2016. You’ll love your Spanish environment, be motivated by your students and come away from the course ready to teach the world English. Malaga is one of the oldest cities in Spain, with a history dating back to 700 BC and its culture is rich. Just consider what it has to offer: Andalucia is the home of...  [Read more]

Of all the questions we get asked as a provider of TEFL certification, this is probably the easiest to answer. The simple truth is that the demand for TEFL qualified teachers is generally very high in most parts of the world and in some areas you can even take your pick of a range of job options as there are not enough teachers to fill the available positions. Although for many TEFL course graduates the aim is to head overseas to experience living and working in a foreign culture, it is not the only option. Plenty of people use their teaching qualification within their home country as increasing levels of immigration have led to a rapid increase in demand for EFL teachers in English speaking countries, such as Australia, Canada, the UK, and the USA. While there are teaching...  [Read more]

If you're a TEFL teacher who loves to travel, there are several countries around the world that can offer you a rewarding experience both in terms of teaching and exploring new destinations. Here are some of the best countries for TEFL teachers who have a passion for travel: 1. **Thailand**: Known for its warm hospitality, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine, Thailand is a popular destination for TEFL teachers. With a high demand for English teachers, you can easily find job opportunities in schools, language centers, or even as a private tutor. During your free time, you can explore bustling cities like Bangkok, relax on tropical beaches, or visit ancient temples. 2. **Spain**: If you dream of living in Europe while teaching English, Spain is an excellent choice. With a rich...  [Read more]

Bundoran in Co. Donegal is a small town on the west coast of Ireland that is a popular seaside resort. By taking your course at ITTT's training centre in Bundoran you will be studying in an area of immense natural beauty. There are many beautiful beaches in the vicinity, and Bundoran is a world famous surfing destination. There are also numerous coastal walks, mountains to hike, and Co. Donegal is home to the Glenveagh National Park and the awe-inspiring Slieve League. Attendees of our Bundoran TEFL course will be able to make the most of all this region has to offer, including traditional Irish food, beautiful beaches and a wide variety of sports and other outdoor activities such as surfing or hiking through the gorgeous countryside surrounding the town. Bundoran is also home to a...  [Read more]

  Massachusetts is not only the most populous state in the region of New England, but also an exciting vacation destination for many. “The Bay State” is bordered by the mighty Atlantic Ocean in the east and offers a wide variety of different landscapes. For example, visitors can enjoy exciting mountains, lush valleys as well as some of the finest beaches in the USA. Besides its many natural wonders, Massachusetts is also an important historic location in North America. The famous Pilgrims landed here after their long journey from England across the ocean. That’s why Massachusetts is a historic gem and witness of the colonial and revolutionary eras. Today, Massachusetts is a popular vacation destination for many Americans due to the 1,500-mile long coastline with its abundant...  [Read more]

Teaching English abroad has become a popular and lucrative job for many English speakers around the world in recent years. This is mainly due to the increase in demand for the English language in many countries, which has resulted in increasing competition for teaching salaries. When looking for a teaching job abroad it is always a good idea to compare the salary on offer with the local cost of living, which can vary greatly from one country to the next. A monthly salary of US $1,000 would allow you to live a very comfortable lifestyle in Costa Rica, whereas the same salary in a city like Paris would most likely not be enough to provide all of the comforts you desire. Other contract benefits such as free housing, health insurance, paid vacations, and airfare reimbursement can all add up to...  [Read more]

Once you have decided on attending an in-class course the next decision to make is which location is best for you. To ensure you have the widest choice possible, we have plenty of locations to consider. If you would like to complete your TEFL certification in North America we have many options across the US, as well as centers in Canada and Mexico. You might also want to consider South and Central America where we operate training centers in a range of exotic locations, including Argentina, Brazil, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala and Peru. As Asia contains the largest markets for English language teachers, we have plenty of centers to choose from throughout the region. If you want to take advantage of the countless job opportunities in China, we have four great locations to pick from....  [Read more]

Due to government restrictions or work visa requirements, there are several countries where English language teachers without a 4-year university degree might find it difficult to secure employment. However, the good news is there are still plenty of great opportunities for those without a degree if you are flexible and willing to go where the demand for your services is high. To increase your chances of landing a position in the country of your choice, it is highly recommended that you first complete an internationally accredited TEFL/TESOL certification course. Those who are TEFL qualified will find they have a big advantage over non-qualified teachers in most countries worldwide. Although China has the largest market for TEFL qualified teachers in the world, the regulations for...  [Read more]

How much you can expect to earn teaching English in Latin America will vary depending on the country you choose, your specific location within that country, and the individual employer. However, teachers typically earn enough to live a comfortable, middle class lifestyle. You can expect your income to cover all your daily expenses and have enough to enjoy a good social life, although you are unlikely to be able to save much during your stay. As is the case in much of Latin America, teachers generally don't come to Costa Rica purely to make money. The average salary is considerably less than you will find in other more lucrative regions such as Asia and the Middle East, at around $600 to $1,000 per month. Your earning potential will increase considerably if you have a degree, TEFL...  [Read more]

Demand for ESL teachers is high in all areas of the world and employers typically prefer those who have a TEFL qualification over non-qualified applicants. It is highly recommended that you first complete an internationally accredited TEFL certification before applying for an ESL teaching position. Having some form of teaching experience will also increase your options for employment, though as with a degree, this is not always a requirement. With countries ranging from ancient to very modern, Europe offers a whole range of history, climate, and population density. There are many countries where a degree is not required and these include the ever popular, Spain, Italy and the Czech Republic. If you are looking for something quieter, areas of Greece, Poland, Romania and Bulgaria may be...  [Read more]

Chile has long been one of the most popular countries in Latin America for teaching English abroad. The capital city of Santiago has a thriving demand for ESL teachers year-round and is subsequently the most popular location for foreign teachers. If you prefer to get away from the hustle and bustle of the big city you will also find a smaller number of options in other towns and cities across the country. Although not an official requirement in Chile, it is recommended that you complete a TEFL/TESOL certification of at least 120 hours duration before looking for work as it will increase your job prospects significantly. There are many things to consider when calculating your expected salary for teaching English in Chile, such as your level of experience, qualifications, location, type...  [Read more]

Put simply, language is a verbal expression of culture which means that culture clearly has to be seen as an important part of language learning. Although it is important to learn the vocabulary and grammar of English during lessons, to truly grasp what the language means to native speakers it is vital that EFL students learn as much as possible about the culture of English speaking nations. The good news is that students generally love learning about cultural issues, whether it is music, films, books, and TV, or other things such as food or fashion. So, how can we incorporate culture into our EFL lessons to make them interesting and productive? Authentic materials can be anything that native English speakers might use that can be adapted for use in an EFL classroom. This type of material...  [Read more]

If you are thinking about joining the tens of thousands of people already working as ESL teachers in China, one of the first decisions to make is which location in this vast country would suit you best. Although it is possible to find jobs off the beaten track, the vast majority of positions are located in big cities such as Beijing and Shanghai. However, as there are more than 150 other cities with a population of over one million people, there are plenty of options for you to consider. With a population of over 20 million, the vast city of Shanghai offers countless opportunities for ESL teachers, particularly in the field of business English. As it has such a large job market and offers very competitive salaries, Shanghai is one of the most popular destinations in the whole of Asia....  [Read more]

We should start by acknowledging that there are some countries where a degree is required for certain teaching jobs. However, even within these countries there are often opportunities for teachers without a degree. In such situations you would need to be more flexible in terms of the type of job and conditions. As we will see later, undertaking volunteering or internship programs are examples of such flexibility. The main point here is that you can teach in many countries without a degree, provided you do have some other attributes or qualifications that employers are looking for. One of the most important qualifications worldwide for EFL teachers is the TEFL certificate. If you have a certificate of at least 120 hours then you should be able to find a number of jobs available to you. You...  [Read more]

  The ITTT TEFL course in Colombia gives you the opportunity to learn how to teach English in one of Latin America’s brightest stars and the gateway to South America. Colombia is a country filled with unique landscapes and innovative cities, cultural and gastronomic delights, and villages surrounded by imposing mountains. It is a country of diversity with places that only exist in Colombia. For lovers of nature and extreme sports, the three mountain ranges of the Colombian Andes are an excellent setting for climbing or walking trails. For water sports, the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Coast offer some of the world’s best surfing and snorkeling, and our lakes and reservoirs in the interior of the country are great for fishing and rafting. Colombia has everything; Caribbean...  [Read more]