~ A small nation across the Rio de la Plata from Argentina, Uruguay is known for its serene beach resorts, well-educated populace, European ambiance, and culturally-rich colonial villages.
Teaching English in Uruguay
A rapidly developing and politically stable country, Uruguay continues to attract more and more tourists each year. This tiny nation’s economy has made an incredible recovery in recent years, mainly due to increased exports to North America. Because the United States is Uruguay’s largest export market, local residents are realizing the need to speak and understand English. As an EFL teacher in Uruguay, your English students will range in age and background. You might teach English to 20 to 30 students in grades K-12, or help business professionals learn the language to help sustain Uruguay’s economic success.
Uruguay TEFL Facts:
Your English Students K-12 University Adults Business professionals
Best Time to Get Hired March - August
Length of Commitment 6-12 month contracts
Typical Teaching Schedules Part time
Average Pay and Benefits $300 - $500 USD per month
Average Cost of Living $300 - $500 per month depending on lifestyle
Requirements TEFL certification (TEFL Online accepted) Native speaker or fluent in English
Uruguay Overview
Known for its European feel, Uruguay is the second smallest country in South America, yet bursting with the vitality of a nation twice its size. This politically and economically stable country attracts more visitors per capita than any other South American nation. A land of spectacular natural beauty, Uruguay features mysterious caves, impressive cliffs, lush rolling plains, and unusual, tentacle-like Ombu tree forests that create a fairytale-like atmosphere. The major cities boast modern amenities and technological advancements while small fishing towns preserve traditional history and culture. Uruguay has a notable legacy of artistic and literary traditions, combined with centuries-old architectural remains and fortresses dating back to colonial times.
The stunning and sophisticated coastal capital of Montevideo is one of the only continental capitals that integrates a loop of charming beaches into its metropolitan backdrop. More than 90 percent of the city’s residents are of European decent—a heritage that comes alive in their colorful festivals, entertaining plays and dances, and delicious cuisine. Inland, the culture of the gaucho (the South American cowboy) remains strong, with locals wearing the same authentic attire as the generations that preceded them.
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The TEFL Life Shangai, China
Capital: Montevideo
Population: 3,419,000
Language(s): Spanish
Currency: Uruguayan peso
Literacy Rate: 98%
Life Expectancy: 75 years
Uruguay was the first country in the world to establish a minimum wage for farm workers and enforce the eight-hour work day.
Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay, is nicknamed “The City of Roses.”
Yerba Mate, an herbal beverage with stimulating properties, is the national drink of Uruguay.
Uruguay won its first World Cup in 1930 against Argentina.
“Uruguay” is translated as “land of painted birds” in the Guarani language.
Uruguay lies in the temperate climate zone, so it is warm with even amounts of rainfall throughout the year. Because there are no significant mountain ranges to guard against changing weather, Uruguay is vulnerable to sudden variations in climate conditions. During the summer months (December-March), temperatures average between 63°F and 82°F (17°C to 28°C). During the winter (June-August), average temperatures range from 43°F to 57°F (6°C to 14°C). Montevideo, located on the coast, has occasional rain showers throughout the year, but enjoys an average climate similar to the rest of the country.