Job Discussion Forums

[ejectseat]

I've always been interested in Belize for numerous reasons, and having taken 5 years of Spanish language study back in the day I think it would be nice to utilize it. I have a job offer to teach English in Japan on hold, and if it falls through I am going to pack up and drive to Belize. I was hoping to obtain a teaching position there if possible. I know English is the primary language, with 40% of the population speaking Spanish (primary and bilingual).

What is the ESL scene like there (if it even exists)? What is the chance of me landing a teaching job there in a University? It seams like there's a great potential in Mexico to teach at the University level if you hold a bachelors degree, and if anyone has insight into Belize that would be great.

If the teaching situation doesn't pan out, the tourist service industry is exploding there. The need for computer/technical instruction could open some doors as well. My interest in marine life and scuba diving could lead one hell of an extended vacation, so I'm really open to anything.

Lastly, if I take my car with me, what am I to expect to happen with/to it? (those that took cars to Mexico feel free to tell me horror stories)

Thanks for any help - Colin

[JZer]

ejectseat, sorry I can't help but I wanted to say hello since I am from Indiana, PA!!!

[misteradventure]

have you contacted the embassy/consulate? that is the best bet... otherwise, think of it as a high-crime area. they have real pirates and everything... times don't change much
-r

[delacosta]

You need to do a lot more investigating before you pack up and arrive in Belize. I'm not saying it's a bad idea but it's not like moving to California. How hardy are you? Are you comfortable with guns, drugrunning and general lawlessnes? I mean some people have no problem living with that kind of thing. I've lived in sketchy situations before (actually Zipolite Oaxaca is quite so, the local narco who just built a naco narco mansion a stones throw from my house was just found full of bullets a few weeks ago) , but wouldn't seek it out at this point in my life.

I spent some time there about 5 years ago and had a great and relaxed time in Key Caulker, I think was the name, the smaller of the keys that was cheaper and more geared to backpackers than the other one. I made friends with the locals and got a good feel for the place. I don't scare easiily and Belize City, in broad daylight, made me feel uneasy.
The feel of the whole place reminded me of when I was in Paraguay, a real modern wild west. Laws are for the weak. Of course this is all quite subtle, not visible at first glance.