Becky Young, a spirited and adventurous individual from Colorado, has always dreamed of exploring the world while making a meaningful impact. With a passion for education, culture, and travel, her dream took shape when she decided to leave the United States for a year-long adventure to teach English in Thailand and Vietnam. What began as an exciting new chapter of her life would soon become an unforgettable journey of self-discovery, growth, and exploration.
The Decision to Leave the USA
Becky had always been captivated by the idea of travel. Still, it wasn’t until she discovered the TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) program that she found the perfect way to combine her love for adventure with her passion for teaching. After years of working in various jobs, Becky decided it was time to leave her comfort zone in Colorado and set off on a journey that would allow her to experience new cultures while also gaining valuable teaching experience.
Becky enrolled in The TEFL Institute’s course to prepare herself, which would grant her the certification to teach English abroad. The TEFL Institute offers accredited online programs that provide aspiring teachers with the tools and knowledge necessary to thrive in international classrooms. After months of studying and preparing, Becky received her certification and was ready to embark on her exciting new journey.
Teaching English in Thailand: A New Beginning
Becky’s first destination on her adventure was Thailand, a country known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. After arriving in Bangkok, she settled into her new role as an English teacher at a local school in the city’s heart. For the next few months, she spent her days teaching eager students, ages ranging from young children to teenagers, all while immersing herself in the beauty of Thai culture.
Her time in Thailand was nothing short of magical. She quickly fell in love with the warm hospitality of the Thai people, the bustling markets, the delicious street food, and the serene temples that dotted the landscape. Becky’s classes were filled with laughter and learning as she used her creativity to engage her students. The language barrier was often a challenge, but it only fueled her determination to find ways to connect with her students. Becky felt incredibly fulfilled knowing she was helping her students develop their English skills, opening doors for them to a brighter future.
Aside from her work at the school, Becky also took every opportunity to explore Thailand’s stunning natural beauty. She visited ancient temples in Chiang Mai, enjoyed the sandy beaches of Phuket, and even ventured up to the northern hill tribes to experience rural Thai life. Each adventure allowed her to understand the country’s history, traditions, and way of life, enriching her experience as a teacher and traveller.
Expanding Horizons in Vietnam
After spending several months teaching in Thailand, Becky decided to continue her adventure by moving to Vietnam, another country known for its rich culture and history. She found work at a language school in Hanoi, where she continued her role as an English teacher. The transition from Thailand to Vietnam was seamless, as Becky had already gained valuable teaching experience and was eager to take on new challenges.
In Vietnam, Becky found a different rhythm to life. Hanoi’s chaotic yet charming streets, filled with motorbikes and vendors, offered a unique contrast to the calmness of Thai cities. Becky quickly adapted to the pace of life in Vietnam, and once again, she was immersed in the vibrant local culture. Her students in Vietnam were just as enthusiastic as those in Thailand, and she enjoyed working with them to improve their speaking and writing skills.
One of the highlights of Becky’s time in Vietnam was her ability to travel to new places during her weekends off. She visited Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where she kayaked among towering limestone islands. She also explored the ancient town of Hoi An, known for its lantern-lit streets and rich history. Becky’s teaching journey in Vietnam became a perfect balance of work and play as she continued to experience the beauty and diversity of Southeast Asia.
Teaching English Online: A Supplementary Income Stream
While living and working in Southeast Asia, Becky earned additional income by teaching English online. This opportunity allowed her to teach students worldwide, further expanding her teaching experience and supporting her travels. She earned around $20 for every 40-minute session, and this side income significantly funded her travels and adventures.
Becky taught English online to students from countries like China, South Korea, and Japan, where English proficiency is highly sought after. This gave her a unique perspective on how English education is valued and approached in different parts of the world. Online teaching was flexible, allowing her to schedule classes around her other responsibilities and work from almost anywhere—a coffee shop in Hanoi or a beach in Thailand.
The extra income from teaching online also enabled Becky to save money for her next big adventure—travelling around South America for four months. By the time she finished her teaching contract in Vietnam, Becky had built enough savings to fund her travels across the continent. Her online teaching job became a way to support her lifestyle and an invaluable tool for learning about global education systems and connecting with students from different backgrounds.
A New Adventure in South America
After wrapping up her time in Southeast Asia, Becky flew to South America, ready to take on a new continent and continue her travels. Over four months, she explored some of the most iconic destinations in South America, including Brazil, Argentina, Chile, and Peru.
In Brazil, Becky enjoyed the vibrant energy of Rio de Janeiro, where she danced samba on the streets and soaked in the lively atmosphere of the famous Copacabana Beach. In Argentina, she marvelled at the beauty of Patagonia’s glaciers and hiked through the stunning landscapes of Tierra del Fuego. She visited the mystical Inca ruins of Machu Picchu in Peru, learning about ancient civilizations and their connection to the land.
Throughout her travels, Becky continued teaching English online, ensuring that she had a steady source of income while on the move. Her time in South America was a dream come true—a culmination of all the experiences she had gained from teaching abroad, travelling to different countries, and expanding her horizons.
Personal Growth and Reflections
Becky’s journey across Thailand, Vietnam, and South America allowed her to fulfil her dream of teaching abroad and led to significant personal growth. She learned to adapt to new cultures, face challenges head-on, and thrive in unfamiliar environments. Her experiences deepened her understanding of the world and shaped her into a more confident, independent, and open-minded individual.
Through teaching, Becky found fulfilment in making a tangible impact on the lives of others. She helped her students develop valuable skills that would open doors for them in the future. Through travel, she found inspiration in the diverse cultures, languages, and landscapes she encountered.
Today, Becky’s story inspires others considering a similar path—whether teaching English abroad, traveling the world, or pursuing a career combining passion and adventure. By obtaining a TEFL certificate and embracing the challenges and rewards of teaching in foreign countries, Becky created a life full of rich experiences, lifelong memories, and the joy of helping others.
Becky Young’s journey is a testament to the power of following one’s dreams, taking risks, and embracing the unknown. From Colorado to Thailand, Vietnam, and beyond, her adventure has shown that the world is a whole of possibilities, and with the right mindset, anything is achievable.