The gigantic landmass that dominates southeastern Asia, China is the fourth largest country in the world. It is home to the globe’s largest population and its most-spoken language, Mandarin. An ancient nation with a long and powerful history dating back thousands of years, China is striving rapidly to rise into modern times. Luckily for those interested in teaching abroad, a big part of the country’s push into the global market is its quest for English.
The TEFL program is located in Shanghai, the nation’s largest and most westernized city. The training center is very modern with computer rooms, Internet connection, multimedia centers, and cafeterias. Nearby are a variety of restaurants, convenience stores, and shopping malls.
A bustling cosmopolitan city, Shanghai is characterized by a fast-paced lifestyle, contemporary urban living, and an entertaining nightlife. When the neon lights appear against the skyline at dusk, the city comes to life. Whatever type of bar you like, you will find it—and 25 others just like it—downtown. Alternatives to the bar scene also abound, as you can attend a professional dance performance, join an all-night game of Mahjong, or grab a few friends, a small keg of beer, and head into a private soundproofed room for a fun-filled evening at a karaoke lounge.
During the day, visitors to Shanghai can hit the city’s abundant shopping options, from street markets to upscale designer stores. Explore the offerings in Chinese tea, feng shui accessories, street market kitsch, or fine fabric clothing. Other possible activities include taking a Huangpu river cruise, visiting the Shanghai art museum, or grabbing a bite to eat at one of the city’s fine eateries.
Teaching positions are plentiful in China, where native English speakers are in great demand nationwide. Shanghai is an excellent city to start your adventure in China. It offers many comforts to foreigners and is a good place to get acquainted with Chinese culture. The TEFL course in Shanghai will prepare you to get a job in the city, or to head off for one of the many English teaching positions available across the country.
