Turkey is looking to join the European Union, and the push for Turkish residents to learn English has already begun. Government officials estimate that in the public schools, the demand for English teachers exceeds 30,000—so there are plenty of TEFL jobs available. Public school students begin English classes in fourth grade, and students at private schools start the language as early as kindergarten. This means most of your students will have previous exposure to the language, along with an eagerness to learn. With teaching positions available year-round and opportunities in a variety of sectors, Turkey is an ideal location to teach English and to explore a fascinating culture!

Stretching across two continents, Turkey is a fascinating land where East and West unite. In the past 10,000 years, this mesmerizing nation has been home to 20 unique civilizations, which are depicted in statues of gods and goddesses, theaters, temples, churches, mosques and palaces across the country. Turkey is divided into seven regions—each with its own unique climate, terrain and culture. The nation boasts almost 5,000 miles (8,050 km) of coastline and a variety of majestic terrain. From towering, snow-capped mountains to fertile valleys painted with wildflowers to banana plantations and cotton fields, Turkey is exotically diverse. The Turkish people are known for their generosity, traditional hospitality and close family ties.