Job Discussion Forums

[whosonfirst]

Hello. I am an American man in my early thirties, and I have been a foreign teacher in China for about three years. I have a B.A. degree, but not in teaching. During that time I have worked in plenty of cities throught the country. I am now at somewhat of a crossroads. I am currently working in one of the top three cities in the country. Yet I am wondering as Jack Nicholson said in the movie with the same title, is this as good as it gets ? Let me start by saying I have learned to enjoy the job of teaching here through my many experiences. But I am now wondering what's next. Yes i do know the saying. wherever you go, there you are. But I also believe that changing the location, can be good as well. I also need to add that I am married to a Chinese woman from the mainland. She has stuck with me through many adventures here. She is in her late twenties, and is currently back at school getting her B.A. Degree. She is a smart cookie, with standard english, and some business experience. We do not have any childern.
So my question to the Dave's ESL masses, is where should i go from here, with my wife ? I enjoy teaching in the university level. And would be open to moving to another part of Asia. The things i would be looking for, are 1) a decent quality of life , 2)decent pay as a foreign teacher. 3) A place where my wife can get a decent job.
I know after reading this most of you will say, why don't you take your wife back to America. But that's just not in the cards right now.
Places I have been thinking about are Hong Kong,( although everyone on the esl board here talks about the differences between there and the mainland). I have also thought about Japan. as my wife is learning japanese for her class.
So i am hoping that people from other parts of Asia can give me some opinions. There may be other countries that I am not thinking about as well. All ideas and suggestions are welcome.
If we make a move, it would be in the Summer of 2010. So need to plan now.

[naturegirl321]

I think it's great that you want to move, although I'll be honest with you, the fact that you're married makes it tough. I've been married to a Peruvian for three years, and I've had job offers from Bulgaria, Poland, Turkey, Mozambique, Bangladesh and Belarus, once they find out that I'm married, to a non.English speaker it "we'll be in touch"

Langauge schools seem to not be able to get work visas for spouses. Schools and universities might. YOu could try the Middle East, good pay and benefits.

We're actually heading to CHina soon, founda great school with fantasitc salary and visas.

Thailand might be good for you, or Taiwan or Japan. Just be aware that it will be harder for you since you're married. Korea and Japan, visa wise, might be easier.

AS for your wife working, most spousal visas don't allow spouses to work, so while she could teach at a lanague school or private classes, it may be illegal.

HOpe this helps