Oxford Seminars Blog 
My Kinder Year in Korea
I was walking through the Eaton Center in downtown Toronto, Canada a few days ago when a store called Reiwatakiya caught my eye. It looked like a whimsical beauty store, and when I walked inside it, I saw – to ...
What You Can Buy for a Dollar in Japan
Teachers the world over know that the dollar store is a great place to get teaching supplies. Classrooms always need pencils, paper, and props for lessons. While Japan doesn’t use the dollar, those embarking on a teaching adventure there can still get everything they need for their classroom at the hyakuen, or 100-yen store. Chains like Daiso and ...
PyeongChang 2018: An Unforgettable Experience
During my time teaching in South Korea, I tried to make it to as many sporting events as possible. Mostly, this consisted of watching Jeonbuk Hyundai dominating the K-League or trying to comprehend what was happening while watching Kia Tigers play baseball. Over the years, there were also some bigger occasions: I managed to see Korea take on Brazil ...
Two Places Retro Gamers MUST See in Japan!
There are many paths to developing a lifelong interest in Japanese culture. When I moved to Japan in 2014 to teach English, I got to know how many of my fellow ESL teachers came to be there. Some practiced Japanese martial arts like judo or karate, while others were there for the food, the trains, or anime. For me, ...
Shop Till You Drop at a Thai Weekend Market
When I got the chance to teach English in Japan through the JET Programme, I knew I wanted to take the opportunity to travel and explore the country as much as possible. One of the biggest draws of teaching abroad for me was the idea of seeing as much of Japan – its castles, shrines, and mountainous landscapes – ...
Culture Shock! How to Plan for it and Make the Most of Your New Adventure
If you’ve been considering a career abroad, you’ve probably run into the term “Culture Shock” more than a few times. This expression gets bandied about in expat teaching circles quite a bit, but if you’re planning to move overseas for the first time, it’s important to make sure you have an in-depth understanding of this issue. That’s what I’d like ...
Teaching Life in Colombia — Is it Business as Usual? – The Teaching Abroad Pod (Episode 7)
In this episode, James and Rowan conduct a wide-ranging interview with Oxford Seminars graduate Abigail Entrican, who is now hiring business English teachers in Colombia. Learn all about stunning cities and beaches to visit, popular foods to try, the ins and outs of teaching business English, and so much more!
The ‘New’ Italian Job (and the Pineapple on Pizza Debate) – The Teaching Abroad Pod (Episode 3)
The 'New' Italian Job (and the Pineapple on Pizza Debate) - The Teaching Abroad Pod (Episode 3) In this episode James and Rowan discuss their favorite (and not-so-favorite) pizzas from around the world, and attempt to spark the great Pineapple on Pizza debate. After the break we learn about the best pastas in Italy, and how to succeed ...
Love Is in the Air – The Teaching Abroad Pod (Episode 1)
Love Is in the Air - The Teaching Abroad Pod (Episode 1) James reminisces with co-host Rowan about falling in love in Korea, while an interview with guests Becky and Mike uncovers how they found love in China. They also discuss some uncommon but amazing Korean and Chinese dishes, and incredible off-the-beaten-path travel destinations.
6 must try foods you can’t miss while teaching ESL abroad
Teaching English overseas offers a wide variety of benefits for every teacher. Whether you’re into traveling and exploring a different landscape, gaining work experience and making money, or making a difference in the lives of others, there is something for everyone. But there is another benefit that should never be overlooked: The food. Traveling and teaching English abroad is ...
