Teach English in Europe - Getting Paid to Travel

You will need a Passport, a Visa to work in the appropriate country, be a native speaker of English (preferably from the Midwest), and have a Bachelor's degree from most any field though TOEFL or a Business degree are probably the most desired choices.

Where can you go?

France, Germany, Spain, Portugal, and more. Greece and Italy are also possible locations, but are harder to get work visas there.

So How do I Get Paid?!?

There are a few choices on how you can make money teaching conversational English overseas. You can either freelance as an English tutor where you can choose your own clients, and work as often as you want or you can work for a company (or the government) who hires such tutors for major corporations (or the school system). You will undoubtedly make more money going the latter route, and often have more 'benefits' like a place to stay some times, Though this is an exception and not the rule, more established programs will give you more benefits. Some of these programs have a non-compete clause in their contracts, though, and will not let you freelance while you are there. The benefits will typically outweigh the drawbacks. You are also considered to be 'at a job' and you can't just take off a few days to go sight seeing.

While freelancing, your time is your own, you can teach who you would like, when you would like, and can take multiple/several jobs at the same time, potentially raising your earning opportunity. The main drawback here is that you have to advertise your services, and market yourself. Going to different secondary schools (or some colleges) is helpful, contacting some businesses, or making yourself available for private tutoring are options.

Wait, don't I need to know [Insert Language of Destination Here]?!?

Actually, no. It helps the process, but most major European countries have some working knowledge of English since the time they are children. Since they don't practice it often enough, their conversational skills in English are typically poor. That is where you come in. You will read with people, talk with people, teach people about American culture by discussion, and work with people through guided conversation. Slang is typically a focus as is culture. Don't be surprised if most of your conversations are about last year's American Idol, or Michael Jackson.

How Much Money Can I Make?

Honestly not as much as one would think. You will pay for expenses and a little bit touristy activities. You will often be invited to go to eat/drink with your students if you are teaching at a business which will take up some money. But meeting the people, learning the culture, experiencing the country you are in, those are the real rewards. You may be able to save a 'bit by living frugally, eating what the locals eat, and taking most of your meals in, but this is no get rich quick scheme. In some situations, you may also be able to defer student loans while you are overseas.

Daniel has been on two 'tours of duty' as a Conversational English teacher. Once in Germany, and once in Japan.