Cheryl: I’ve been here for 5 years now and have recruited over 1000 people to Prague who have earned their TEFL Certificate and then gone on to teach in numerous countries. Many teachers have ended up staying in Prague to begin their teaching careers. I’ve talked to dozens of teachers about their experience here and many comment on how Prague is a good first step for teaching because of the demand for teachers and low cost of living. Furnished apartments are easy to find, there is a large expat community so you’ll never get homesick, and the Czech people are quite welcoming, fun and outgoing.

Upon first meeting Czechs they can seem a little cold and distant, but once you get to know them a little they thaw and their warmth really starts to show through. They’ll often take you under their wing and make sure you are okay and have everything you need as well as introducing you to Czech culture. It is very common for teachers to be invited home for dinner, to summer cottages or on weekend trips with their students. Sometimes teachers hold their conversation classes in the local pubs over a cold frothy pivo (beer).

So, where exactly is the Czech Republic? It’s located in the center of Europe and bordered by Germany, Austria, Poland, and Slovakia, all of which can be reached within a few hours by car. Prague’s convenient location allows you to visit other major European cities in just a weekend. Berlin, Paris, Vienna, Munich, Warsaw, Budapest, and the German, Austrian and Italian Alps are all reachable in a weekend. It’s even possible to fly to London very cheaply these days. Prague itself is situated on the River Vltava and features a unique mixture of gothic, baroque and renaissance architecture. You can easily lose yourself on dark, winding cobblestone alleys that intertwine between the castle, cathedrals, galleries, museums, cafes and pubs. During your adventure be sure to try the world famous Pilsner Urquell beer (pivo) on your way to Charles Bridge.