Some of the benefits the schools can offer include:
• free Spanish classes;
• help in finding an apartment;
• assistance in travel arrangements;
• assistance in the process of getting a work visa (when needed).

Teaching Job

The greatest demand for EFL teachers in Ecuador is present in the three largest cities of the country: Quito, Guayaquil and Cuenca. So you should first look for a position in the institutes in these cities. There are also volunteer opportunities in the jungle villages in the eastern Amazon provinces of Napo, Sucumbios, or Pastaza. Here you will get housing and food in return for you work.

Opportunities to teach English inlcude:
- public schools;
- private language schools;
- colleges;
- personal tutoring.

Other Points to Consider

• Don’t expect to get paid for the time you spend on lesson preparation, since you are unlikely to get compensation for this.
• If you are not applying to the international language schools, where you have to sign a contract presupposing 2 years of work, you will be, most likely, asked a verbal 6 months or more commitment. The contract will usually not be signed.
• Consider the opportunity of teaching English to businessmen and women in the evenings or on weekends. This may also give you a chance to travel a little around the country.
• Since Ecuador is a patriarchal society, female teachers, especially non-Latino with light-coloured hair, can be subjects to verbal mockery or suspicious attitude from the students.
• Petty crimes are quite a common thing in Ecuador, so one needs to be always alert. For example, in public transport it is necessary to keep an eye on your bags, or avoiding dark streets in the evening is highly recommended.
• The healthcare is cheap and the service is good, esp. in bigger cities. Nevertheless, taking health insurance would be a good idea in case of a serious injury.
• Since the educational process is not strictly controlled by the educational authorities, it is up to you how to organize your class effectively. Take advantage of this and try to show high professionalism and dedication, then the rewards will be plentiful.