Finally in El Salvador

After months of hard work I have finally made it to El Salvador. The true reward comes now as I prepare to teach English here. I will be updating my progress and sharing stories along the way.

Time to Get to Work

It's been over a year since I initially decided to take the plunge and move abroad to teach English in El Salvador. This journey has had some unexpected twists and turns and has required a lot of learning and planning but it is finally starting to take shape. I have spent countless hours researching different TEFL courses available, residency requirements, as well as the resources I will need once there to make it. As I currently work full-time, there never seems to be enough hours in the day but I have spent my free time laying the groundwork for this to happen.

I plan to share the many resources that I come across for anyone who is planning (or thinking about) doing something similar. I am really excited about this as it has been a dream for a long time and am very excited as the day draws closer to achieving this. Thanks for stopping by.

Looking for TEFL Resources Online

I have started discovering the many resources available online regarding teaching English as a second language and must say that I am truly amazed. As I only recently made the decision to do move abroad and pursue this career path, there are certain areas that I want to focus on before going.

Two areas that I have started researching are classroom techniques and tips on dealing with students in this learning environment. The sheer amount of articles and videos that I have found are amazing! So many people that have gone abroad and taught English have shared their wonderful experiences online. I plan to share many of these finds here in future posts.

Here is just one of the videos that I came across this morning which focuses on teaching English with games:

Izalco Volcano El Salvador

Izalco Volcano is located in western El Salvador and is a national icon. Izalco erupted almost continuously from 1770 (when it formed) to 1958 earning it the nickname of "Lighthouse of the Pacific". The volcano was featured on the 10 colón bank note when in circulation. I came across this wonderful video which offers a close look at this natural wonder.

A Day to Reflect

Just a quick update on what is going on. Today is the first day that I have sat down and really took stock of what all is going to be involved in my move to El Salvador. From deciding what I really need to take with me to tying up all loose ends, I have realized this is going to be quite an undertaking! I know that this life change will be so rewarding and all of the work will definitely be worth it.

As I still have to work full time, I am getting ready to go now but plan to start going through the house when I get home tonight. Putting your life in a few suitcases is no small feat! I plan to post some pics soon showing my progress.

El Salvador- A Beautiful Slideshow

When visiting El Salvador in the past, I was amazed at the many natural wonders present in this small country. I came across this video today showcasing the country's wonders and wanted to share with you. Music is "Porcelain" by Moby.

My Journey To El Salvador

My name is Bruce and I welcome you to my new blog! I plan to share my adventures as I prepare for a new life abroad teaching English in Santa Ana, El Salvador. I first visited the country in 1995 and instantly fell in love with the culture and the wonderful people there. My plan was to go back as soon as possible but I was unable to do so. I have visited again, the last time being in 2008. I have met some really good friends and stay in contact even today.

As life goes by, I have decided once again to return. This time I plan to stay. I have worked hard all of my adult life and have been greatly affected by the economic downturn in the last few years. Even with a college degree, times are tough and my age doesn't help. Rather than just get by here, I would rather live a simple yet rewarding life in a country that I love. A very dear friend runs a school that trains kids to sew and cook and I have offered to teach English to interested students. The pay will be very minimal but the satisfaction of helping them to learn a new language and exposing them to new career choices will more than compensate for this.

Follow me as I share my experiences on this life path. Thanks again for stopping by!