Located in the Persian Gulf, Bahrain is a popular TEFL destination that consists of 33 interconnected islands basking in the warm rays of the tropical sun. Unlike many of the other countries in the region, Bahrain doesn’t actually possess a huge oil wealth; rather it has established itself in the international banking world and at the centre of the refining process for the millions of barrels of oil pumped out of the Middle Eastern oil fields. Massive land reclamation projects have allowed Bahrain to expand its land mass, but have also robbed the country of its natural beaches. Those looking to relax on a sandy beach will instead have to make do with one of the artificial beaches created by many of the hotels along the shoreline. Move beyond the beach and go diving in the pale blue oceans surrounding the country, providing the opportunity to hunt for the world’s most beautiful natural pearls. Read More

Located in the Persian Gulf, Bahrain is a popular TEFL destination that consists of 33 interconnected islands basking in the warm rays of the tropical sun. Unlike many of the other countries in the region, Bahrain doesn’t actually possess a huge oil wealth; rather it has established itself in the international banking world and at the centre of the refining process for the millions of barrels of oil pumped out of the Middle Eastern oil fields. Massive land reclamation projects have allowed Bahrain to expand its land mass, but have also robbed the country of its natural beaches. Those looking to relax on a sandy beach will instead have to make do with one of the artificial beaches created by many of the hotels along the shoreline. Move beyond the beach and go diving in the pale blue oceans surrounding the country, providing the opportunity to hunt for the world’s most beautiful natural pearls.

TEFL teachers over the years have found they are able to teach and live to a comfortable standard when working in the country. It is also a place where there is no shortage of play to go with the work. The capital city, Manama, offers to keep you busy with a vibrant day and nightlife. Relax and enjoy the well-developed café culture, indulge in some shisha at one of the many hotspots to be found, or dance the night away at a club with an international DJ. Over 4,000 years of settlement means there are also plenty of archaeological delights to be uncovered for those interested in the region’s history. Lovers of architecture, meanwhile, can witness the best of modern architecture in downtown Manama, or bask in the presence of architectural gifts from another age when wandering the lanes of old Muharraq.

When you have slightly more time off from your TEFL job, you can take to the desert on horseback for a unique camping trip that you will never forget. Be startled by the sight of the ‘Tree of Life’, a lone tree growing in the heart of the desert that has survived for over 400 years. When it all gets too much, spend a day relaxing at one of Bahrain’s great Moroccan baths or spa retreats. Bahrain is somewhat of a mecca for EFL teachers in the Middle East. Its wealth generated by the oil industry and more liberal outlook than most other nations in the area help to make it a very attractive destination. Before considering working there it’s important to understand that all TEFL jobs in the country will require a bachelor’s degree and at least three years’ experience as a minimum.

Employers are looking for the best teachers they can find and the more qualified and experienced you are the better. EFL jobs can be found with language centres, schools, universities and through an organisation such as the British Council. If you don’t have a master’s degree, then teachers with just a TEFL qualification usually find the British Council jobs to be among the most lucrative they can find. Make sure that any employer provides medical insurance for you, as you don’t want to be stuck with a sky-high medical bill. In addition, many employers also provide accommodation and pay for flights, which is a huge benefit to those looking to save some money while working in Bahrain – so don’t be afraid to negotiate.