Teach English in Taiwan

Teach English in Taiwan

Take the exciting opportunity to teach English in Taiwan, where each day promises a new adventure and a chance to make a lasting difference. Picture yourself immersed in a vibrant tapestry of tradition, modernity, and warm hospitality. Taiwan’s unique blend of bustling urban life, serene landscapes, and a rich historical tapestry creates an ideal backdrop for expanding your horizons. As an English teacher, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping the linguistic skills of eager students while fostering cross-cultural understanding. 

The island’s friendly locals, delicious cuisine, and diverse cultural festivals will make your teaching adventure a truly unforgettable chapter in your life. Embrace the chance to make a positive impact on the lives of your students, all while discovering the beauty and charm of Taiwan. This experience will not only enhance your teaching skills but also broaden your global perspective, leaving you with cherished memories and a profound appreciation for the wonders of this dynamic island nation. 

3 Most Popular Cities

Taipei:

Capital and Cultural Hub: Taipei serves as the political, economic, and cultural capital of Taiwan. It is home to numerous museums, theaters, and cultural institutions, including the iconic National Palace Museum, showcasing an extensive collection of Chinese art.

Modern Skyline: The city boasts a modern skyline featuring the famous Taipei 101, one of the tallest skyscrapers globally. Visitors can take in panoramic views from its observation deck.

Night Markets and Street Food: Taipei is renowned for its vibrant night markets, such as Shilin Night Market, offering a wide array of street food, local snacks, and unique products. Visitors can experience the lively atmosphere and taste authentic Taiwanese cuisine.

Kaohsiung:

Southern Charm: Located in southern Taiwan, Kaohsiung is a bustling metropolis with a relaxed atmosphere. It is known for its warm climate, making it a popular destination year-round.

Love River: Kaohsiung is bisected by the Love River, a scenic waterway lined with parks, cafes, and walking paths. The riverbanks come alive with festivities during events and festivals.

Cultural Attractions: The city is home to various cultural attractions, including the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Memorial Center, Lotus Pond with its picturesque pagodas, and the Pier-2 Art Center, an area filled with contemporary art installations.

Taichung:

Artistic and Green Spaces: Taichung is often considered an artsy city, featuring vibrant street art, public installations, and creative spaces like the Rainbow Village. It also boasts parks and green areas, such as the popular Calligraphy Greenway.

Gastronomic Delights: The city is known for its diverse food scene, from street vendors to upscale restaurants. Fengjia Night Market is one of the largest and most famous night markets in Taiwan, offering an extensive selection of local delicacies.

Cultural Events: Taichung hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, attracting both locals and tourists. The National Taichung Theatre, with its unique architectural design, is a notable cultural venue.

10 Things to See and Do

Taroko Gorge: Explore the stunning Taroko Gorge National Park, known for its marble-walled canyons, scenic hiking trails, and picturesque landscapes. Marvel at the Eternal Spring Shrine, a picturesque temple perched on the mountainside within Taroko Gorge.

Taipei 101: Visit Taipei 101, one of the world’s tallest skyscrapers. Take an elevator to the observatory for panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas. Experience the thrill of one of the world’s fastest elevators as it whisks you to the Taipei 101 Observatory in just 37 seconds.

Night Markets: Experience the lively atmosphere and indulge in local street food at one of Taiwan’s famous night markets, such as Shilin Night Market in Taipei or Fengjia Night Market in Taichung. Savor the delectable aroma of stinky tofu and try the famous “Taiwanese burger” (gua bao) while navigating the bustling stalls of Raohe Night Market.

Alishan National Scenic Area: Take a scenic train ride to Alishan and witness breathtaking sunrise views over a sea of clouds. Explore ancient cypress forests and hiking trails. Participate in the mesmerizing Alishan Forest Railway sunrise tour, offering a visual spectacle as the sun rises over the vast forested mountains.

Sun Moon Lake: Relax by the picturesque Sun Moon Lake, known for its stunning natural scenery. Enjoy boat rides, cycling around the lake, and exploring the surrounding temples and pagodas. Explore the peaceful Lalu Island in Sun Moon Lake, a sacred place for the Thao people and accessible by boat.

National Palace Museum: Discover a vast collection of Chinese art and historical artifacts at the National Palace Museum in Taipei, including the famous Jadeite Cabbage and Meat-shaped Stone. Admire the intricate details of ancient artifacts, including the jadeite cabbage and the meat-shaped stone, each with a unique and fascinating history.

Jiufen Old Street: Wander through the narrow alleys and staircases of Jiufen, a historic mountain town known for its old-world charm, tea houses, and stunning coastal views. Immerse yourself in the nostalgic atmosphere of Jiufen’s teahouses and narrow streets, said to have inspired the setting of the animated film “Spirited Away.”

Elephant Mountain Hike: Hike up Elephant Mountain in Taipei for a rewarding view of the city and Taipei 101. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists, especially during sunset. Capture stunning photographs of Taipei’s skyline and Taipei 101, aglow with city lights, from the various viewpoints along the Elephant Mountain trail.

Kenting National Park: Relax on the beautiful beaches of Kenting and explore the diverse landscapes of Kenting National Park, featuring coral reefs, hiking trails, and the southernmost point of Taiwan. Snorkel or dive in the vibrant waters of Kenting to discover the underwater beauty of Taiwan’s only tropical coral reef.

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall: Visit the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall in Taipei, a significant historical and cultural landmark. Witness the changing of the guard ceremony and explore the surrounding Liberty Square.

People and Culture

Warm Hospitality: Taiwanese people are known for their friendliness and warm hospitality, making visitors feel welcome with their genuine smiles and helpful nature.

Cultural Diversity: Taiwan’s culture is a rich blend of indigenous traditions, Chinese heritage, and influences from various Asian and Western cultures, creating a unique and diverse societal fabric.

Night Market Culture: Taiwanese culture comes alive in the bustling night markets, where locals and visitors alike gather to enjoy street food, shop for unique items, and experience the vibrant atmosphere.

Tea Culture: Taiwan has a deep-rooted tea culture, with traditional tea ceremonies and a strong emphasis on high-quality oolong and green teas. Tea houses are common, providing spaces for relaxation and socializing.

Religious Practices: Religion plays a significant role in Taiwanese culture, with a mix of Buddhist, Taoist, and folk beliefs. Temples and shrines are abundant, and religious festivals are celebrated with enthusiasm.

Filial Piety: Confucian values, particularly filial piety, hold great importance in Taiwanese culture. Respect for elders and strong family ties are integral parts of societal norms.

Modern Art and Innovation: Taiwan has a thriving contemporary art scene, with modern art galleries, street art, and innovative design. The country is known for its technological advancements and contributions to the global tech industry.

Festivals and Celebrations: Taiwan celebrates numerous traditional and cultural festivals throughout the year, such as the Lantern Festival, Dragon Boat Festival, and Mid-Autumn Festival, each marked by colourful rituals, parades, and performances.

Civic-Mindedness: Taiwanese people have a strong sense of civic responsibility. This is evident in their commitment to environmental sustainability, recycling efforts, and participation in community initiatives.

Friendliness and Politeness: Taiwanese people are often described as friendly and polite. Visitors often appreciate the helpfulness of locals, especially when seeking directions or recommendations.

Food

Taiwanese cuisine is renowned for its diverse flavours and unique dishes influenced by a blend of Chinese, Japanese, and indigenous traditions. Here are five foods that are particularly distinctive to Taiwan:

Bubble Tea: Originating in Taiwan in the 1980s, bubble tea, also known as boba tea, has become a global sensation. It typically consists of sweet milk tea with chewy tapioca pearls, and there are numerous variations with different flavours and toppings.

Stinky Tofu: This fermented tofu dish is known for its pungent aroma and distinct flavour. Stinky Tofu is often deep-fried or served in a hot pot, and it’s a popular street food item found in night markets across Taiwan.

Gua Bao: Often referred to as the “Taiwanese hamburger,” Gua Bao consists of a steamed bun filled with braised pork belly, pickled mustard greens, and ground peanuts. It’s a delicious and flavorful snack found at markets and street food stalls.

Oyster Omelette: Oyster Omelette is a popular Taiwanese street food dish that features fresh oysters mixed with a starchy batter, eggs, and various vegetables. The mixture is pan-fried until crispy, and it’s commonly served with a savoury and sweet sauce.

Lu Rou Fan: Lu Rou Fan, or Braised Pork Rice, is a comfort food staple in Taiwan. It consists of slow-cooked, flavourful minced pork served over a bowl of steamed rice. The dish often includes a hard-boiled egg and is garnished with green onions.

Qualifications

A degree and a TESOL certification, such as: TESOL Australia’s exclusive International TESOL Certificate is required to to teach English in Taiwan.

Get Started!

Teaching English in Taiwan offers a unique and rewarding experience for educators seeking cultural immersion and professional growth. Known for its warm hospitality, Taiwan provides a welcoming environment for foreign teachers. The demand for English language instruction is high, providing ample opportunities for employment in public schools, language institutes (buxibans), or private tutoring.

The diverse and vibrant culture, coupled with a convenient and efficient public transportation system, makes exploring the island’s scenic landscapes, night markets, and historic sites accessible and enjoyable. Additionally, the competitive yet reasonable cost of living allows educators to save money while enjoying a comfortable lifestyle. With a strong emphasis on education and a friendly atmosphere, teaching English in Taiwan not only opens doors to career advancement but also provides a gateway to experiencing the unique blend of tradition and modernity that defines this East Asian gem.