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[Blue Jacket]

I have read a lot here but still not clear about some things. I have read some conflicting info and worry that some of what I have read may be outdated. I would appreciate some help. Thank you.

I have no degree. I got my CELTA (B) more than 4 years ago (here in Poland) and have been teaching everything from beginners to Proficiency (a lot of FC and CA groups). Working in private schools, the language institute for the uni (not exactly working for the uni), and doing private lessons. My former profession was doing technical work. I have good to great rapport with my students. I present myself well. How much will not having a degree limit me even if I build a good reputation?

I plan to go to LA this summer (July) and realize that I will not find all that I want in one place. I want to be near a nice beach with soft sand and clear warm water (I think that the Pacific might not be right for me). I hope to avoid extreme heat with humidity (and swarms of mosquitos). I also hope to spend time with people that are not such "city types". I would be happy to get proper papers in the country I go to but this is not a priority. I don't plan to go through the USA on the way to LA because of the amount of money this will cost me so I'm not sure what problems this will cause me upon entry to another country. I don't expect to get rich but "gainful employment" would be nice. I don't like to spend half my day catching buses going from one class to another. I know very little Spanish. I'm not that concerned about the danger warnings (in the early 80's I worked in some of the worst neighborhoods in Detroit, Toledo, Cleveland,,,,) but don't really feel like wearing a flak vest either.

At this time I am checking into Columbia, Venezuela, Mexico,,,, somewhere around this area. If I had a better opinion of the Pacific (which is based on living near the bay area in California) I would consider Peru or Chile.

I have gotten some info through a PM that was greatly appreciated but think that I should post to get a broader range of opinions. Thank you again.