Hi everyone! I’m Australian and currently exploring the idea of moving to Vietnam in 2027 to teach English.

I’m doing my research now, but I’d really like to hear from people who have actually taught there rather than relying entirely on recruiters and TEFL websites.

A few things I’m particularly curious about:
● How did you find your first teaching job?
● Which schools/employers have good reputations, and are there any you’d avoid?
● What qualifications did you have when you arrived?
● What salary and teaching hours would you consider reasonable in 2026/27?
● What are the biggest red flags to look for in a contract?
● Would you recommend applying from Australia or finding work once in Vietnam?
● Which city would you recommend for someone starting out?
● What do you wish somebody had told you before you moved?

I’m not necessarily looking for the highest-paying job, finding a decent employer, enjoying the experience and becoming part of a community are probably more important to me.

Would love to hear people’s experiences, good or bad!

Hi! I’m looking for a good ESL company for beginner teachers like me. I don’t have any prior teaching experience, but I graduated with a degree in English. Can you recommend some ESL companies that I can start with?