Job Discussion Forums

kchibou · Joined: 02 Aug 2009 Posts: 5

I recently was offered a job in Japan that included flight reimbursement, so I bought my airline ticket right away. When I received the contract in the mail it said that I am required to purchase my airline ticket through THEIR agency. I emailed them immediately and asked them to honor my ticket. They said they would only reimburse my ticket if I changed my flight from Sept 20 to Sept 24th. My question is this�.why? Why would they care if I enter the country four days earlier? Is this standard for English teacher positions?

Second question�. I�m thinking, since I�ve already got an air ticket, I�ll just fly to Tokyo and look for another position. I've taught English in two other countries (4 years experience) have a university degree, a ton of business clothes and an american accent. Do you think I�ll have trouble finding a job in Japan? What's the best way to go about it?

hypernonsense · Joined: 15 Jun 2009 Posts: 4

I have a feeling we are working for the same company...

From what i gather, it's easier for them to make one trip to get all the teachers so they don't have to constantly go to the airport whenever one decides to get there. Additionally, it's easier for them to have all of the teachers in one place so that they don't have to deal with people meeting them and getting lost, being late, etc. Plus, they contract your apartment for a specific date.

I don't really have any complaints about the travel agency. I got a great price, and they have been recommended by others who are not working for this program.

Anyway, if we are indeed working for the same company, when they let you know you were accepted they specifically said not to purchase a ticket on your own (or at least they did for me), so I don't think it's unreasonable on their part.

kchibou · Joined: 02 Aug 2009 Posts: 5

They sent me an email subject: University Program Spring 2009 Offer with salary information and dates, September 23, 2009 - December 19, 2009. I've re-read the email, no mention of when and where to purchase a ticket.

I bought a non-stop air ticket on-line, Chicago to Tokyo, $1305.00. I think it's a good price. Sept 20-Dec 28. They say they will not reimburse the ticket unless i change the ticket to Sept 24. They only reimburse up to $1000 and they don't reimburse the ticket until the end of the contract.

I've worked for other schools in China and they've always reimbursed 100% of my airticket and didn't care when you arrive in China, as long as you got there in time for your first class.

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

Apsara · Joined: 20 Sep 2005 Posts: 2142 Location: Tokyo, Japan

kchibou · Joined: 02 Aug 2009 Posts: 5

$1350.00 is round trip/return AND non-stop. Not a bargain?!? Where can I get a cheaper flight?

hypernonsense · Joined: 15 Jun 2009 Posts: 4

kchibou · Joined: 02 Aug 2009 Posts: 5

Wow! That is a bargain! When do you land?

-Kim
[email protected]

ssjup81 · Posted: Mon Aug 03, 2009 5:54 am Post subject:

You know, it might depend on where you're coming from or what airport you're departing from. I know for here, the flights seem to be a bit expensive to fly from RIC here in Richmond compared to some other places. Of course, this might be a bit different now since prices have changed since the last time I've flown out anyplace (2007) so who knows.