Job Discussion Forums

[kidTEFL]

Hey,

I'm just wondering if anyone out there has made the transition from Russia to Italy.

I've spent a good few years in Eastern Europe, but now I want to swap the snow for the sunshine.

Ideally, I'd like to get away from the city and to a small seaside town somewhere.

I imagine the two countries are worlds apart, and was hoping to find a bit of advice from those you made the change.

I have a decision to make very soon, and right now, I have no idea what I'm going to do.

Cheers
KidTEFL

[jonniboy]

Are you going to Italy or to Spain (since you've posted your q in the Spain forum?) I made a similar move for the 2011-2012 year, going from Riga Latvia to Valencia. There are big pluses and minuses both ways. From a lifestyle perspective, Spain is much better, food, weather, festivals, beaches etc. However I really missed the work situation that I had. In Riga I'd mostly adult classes, dedicated students who wanted to learn, with a handful of polite, respectful teens. There was also work all year round and a good market for private classes.

Spain meant mostly being a glorified childminder, trying to keep 6-9 year olds entertained and also dealing with spoilt, snotty teens who were usually very difficult to please. The adults were a mix but overall I found them less motivated than in the east. For example, I'd a beginner group for the whole academic year. That simply wouldn't happen in Riga, as people want and need to progress much more quickly.

[kidTEFL]

I think I'm swaying more to Italy than Spain.

The people, students and workplace are all pretty cool here. I get left alone when planning, though, the school I work for uses their own materials, which can lead you to topping yourself if only used.

I would like a bit of sunshine. Good-bye massive coat, hello shorts and t-shirt.

Children really aren't my bag and I hope to avoid at all costs.

I can just imagine the change being very big.

You mentioned food, weather, festivals, beaches etc - On paper this wins hands down.