BRAZIL
There is something about the mention of "Brazil" that makes people's eyes shine. Maybe it's the beaches, maybe it's the nightlife, maybe it's the footage of Carnival every summer? Whatever it is, Brazil is amongst the top countries in Latin America in which English teachers can find great teaching positions!
Brazil is the largest country in South America, both in size and population (a whopping 180 million+ people - the fifth largest in the world!), and is one of a few that is not Spanish-speaking with Portuguese as its official language. It is an extremely multi-racial and multi-cultural country, with lots of European, Asian, Amerindian and African elements.
Above all, Brazil is a fun country. In spite of continuing social and economic problems, illegal logging of the rain forest, and poverty, amongst other issues, the Brazilian people were born to party and have fun. This is their nature and foreigners travelling to this country will always feel this lively, party-like atmosphere, and will certainly be welcomed into the fun! It is not uncommon to see regular beach parties, drink lots of Caipirinha (a cocktail made with Cachaça, a local spirit, somewhat similar to rum) and partake in LOTS of dancing: salsa, mambo, lambada... anything that requires shaking it!
Brazil boasts one of the top (some would say THE top!) national soccer teams in the world and a fanatical soccer culture. See the famous Maracana stadium in Rio, or catch a game in almost any city around the country. You could also learn a bit of capoeira, an African martial art which focuses on skill rather than injuring your opponent.
The need for English in Brazil is outstanding: children, adults, business, exam preparation... it's all there. There are literally hundreds of language schools across the country, and certainly a huge demand in cities like Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo. Most teachers look for work on the ground, as this is usually the easiest way to find a position; many schools advertise locally, rather than on the Internet. Normally, a TESOL certificate is all you will need to work here - degrees are not legally required. Although salaries in South America are usually low, they will allow for a good standard of living, and many teachers supplement their income with private students. Business English classes in companies often pay a bit more and are in high demand in Brazil.
So, if you are dying to live in a warm, fun, crazy country, and you would like to hang out at Copacabana after your classes, or go on a jungle tour in the Amazon, what are you waiting for? Get your TESOL certificate today and jump on a plane to gorgeous 'Brasil'!
