Teaching abroad can be a fantastic way to see the world, learn what it’s like to live and work in another country, and earn some money along the way. For many positions you won’t even need any prior teaching experience, however, depending on the role you may be required to gain a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign language) or equivalent qualification. If you’re looking for the adventure of a lifetime, here are 5 amazing countries to teach English abroad.

1. China

With a reported 300 million people in China learning English, there is plenty of opportunity to become a teacher in this vast country. Jobs in the biggest international cities like Shanghai and Beijing are the best paid and usually the most sought after making it a competitive process to secure them. However, with over 160 cities with more than a million residents, there are many jobs in non-rural destinations with excellent amenities. There’s a wealth of incredible things to see and do in China on your days off, from attractions like the Great Wall to admiring the breathtaking scenery of the varied landscapes you’ll find here.

2. South Korea

South Korea is increasing in popularity as a destination for teaching English overseas. The main cities like Seoul and Busan are at the cutting edge when it comes to fashion, transport and architecture, and the countryside is as stunning as it is rural for when you want to escape from it all. On top of this, the salaries on offer here are some of the highest you’ll find, which coupled with the low cost of living mean you can afford an extremely good standard of living.

3. Colombia

Despite the lingering notoriety that remains from its history as the epicentre of South America’s narco trade, Colombia is a much-changed country that’s now firmly on travellers’ radars. It’s currently enjoying a moment in the international spotlight thanks to its stunningly beautiful and largely unexplored landscapes, as well as its modern and attractive cities. Because of this growing tourism market, there’s currently a big demand for English teachers meaning it’s relatively easy to secure a position and teachers are treated well here.

4. Spain

Spain has lots of teaching assistant roles available in schools across the country, many of them come with accommodation and paid expenses. Often these tend to be less than full time, but you have the possibility to give private tuition in your free time as well which can work out to be a nice little earner. As one of Europe’s most prominent and interesting destinations with a global history that’s hard to rival, Spain is an incredible place to live and work.

5. Japan

Japan is a place where ancient tradition collides spectacularly with innovative modernity, where Buddhist temples sit seamlessly alongside giant skyscrapers, and bathhouses lie next to the bright neon lights so often used in common depictions of the country. Teacher salaries here are high, though that’s slightly offset by the high cost of living, and teachers are well respected by their students making it a favoured destination.