Job Discussion Forums

[tinkerbell]

I'm seriously considering a move to Turkey, a country I know fairly well as a tourist but I've never lived there. I understand that most jobs are in Istanbul, Ankara and Izmir though Bursa, Kayseri, Antalya and other locations may be possible.

What are the pros and cons of these places? I have some idea as a visitor and I can read maps and weather forecasts as well as the next person, but how is it to actually live in these places? As a foreigner, are they (the big cities at least) much of a muchness or are they significantly different?

I'm a graduate and about to do a 4 week TEFL course, by the way. I'm hoping to get some experience in the UK and then (maybe) come to Turkey this time next year. All (constructive) comments gratefully received. Thank you.

BTW I'm fairly certain I want to teach adults so forget comparisons between K 12 and other. I'm only asking about location.

[calsimsek]

Hi tinkerbell. Location is equal to cost and savings in this country.
So while the big cities like ist and ank offer high wages they also cost alot more.
ONE: If go to a smaller city in cenral Turkey the wages are lower, yet since there are so few native speakers living there, you end up having next to no social life and you save all your income. Also you can pick up privet cash work. Draw back is that there are very few options for work, if you don't get along with the boss you have to stay or leave the city.
TWO:If you go south to coastal strip to places like Alanya or Antalya you will have a great summer and tan. Wages are low, then again after some time you can pick up non teaching work in a bar or selling tours. Key draw back is that your not that specail. The are a hell of alot of native speakers who are married to local Turks or have set up shop for the hoılday dollar. In short you will have a great time with little to show for it.
THREE: Ist is a pain some people love it (I've been here over 12 now) others hate it . Rent is nightmear. If you can share or get a good place for low cost then your wages should be ok to let you have a good life & save a little (very) You will meet lots other teachers, theres a ton of work going in well over 20 multi office Lang/Centers, plus an army of smaller privet companies and lessons to be given. You have to be a fool not to get work in this city (Wages can below so watch out) In Ist the key question Asian or European Side where do you live and work.
Hope all this helps you.

[FGT]

I chose Izmir primarily for the climate and the fact that it was fairly close to Bodrum and other places where I have friends.

Izmir is a fairly unattractive city (too much concrete) in a wonderful setting. Now that the bay's been cleaned up and the water is actually blue and sweet smelling the coastal area is quite pleasant. It's an easy place for a foreigner - the locals are very accepting and even single females don't get a lot of hassle.

The best thing about Izmir is the ease with which you can escape the city. You can be on a reasonable beach, up a mountain, or exploring an ancient city within about an hour of the city centre.

Izmir is cheaper than both Ankara and Istanbul. You can rent a nice flat for about 300 million (upwards).

Night life is better in Istanbul but Izmir has something for most tastes - cinemas, bars, retaurants, concerts, opera etc

I've known people who've left Izmir for Ankara or Istanbul and been happy but I've also known it to work the other way round.

Good luck with your choice.