 Lifestyle vs Money Where are the best places to be an English teacher? Do you want to chill out on a tropical beach after the week's teaching is done and sip on an exotic cocktail as the sun lazily drops below the horizon? Or are you looking to pay off the student loan while traveling the world and getting to know a whole new culture? Below we compare lifestyle and earning potential of popular Teflon and Tesla destinations around the world. Thailand Tropical islands, beautiful beaches, jungle treks and delicious food, Thailand seems to have it all. You won't get rich teaching here, but the cost of living is pretty cheap and the lifestyle is amazing. Highlights 16 public holidays a year Pristine beaches and tropical islands galore. Some of the best food in the world Low salary, but low cost of living Czech Republic A country steeped in history, the Czech Republic is a popular destination for many Teflon and Tesla teachers. This isn't the place to come to pay off your student loan, but it does offer a wonderful way of life. Highlights The salaries may be low, but so is the cost of living. Prague is filled with exquisite architecture. There's plenty to do year-round from cycling to snowboarding. Excellent base for exploring the wider region. Costa Rica Costa Rica is the ideal destination for those looking for a change of pace and to take it easy. As such, it is popular with those turning their backs on the red rays and starting on a new path in life. Highlights Stunning natural environment. Beautiful beaches are never far away. Late-back atmosphere. Military disbanded in favor of funding education. South Korea Some people love it. Some people hate it, but everyone agrees South Korea is a great place to make money teaching English if you're willing to work hard. Highlights Paid airfare, free accommodation and of contract bonus, high salary, over 2,000 US dollars. Saudi Arabia Teaching in Saudi Arabia is a great opportunity to learn about an often stigmatized part of the world. Salaries here are high, but there isn't much to spend them on making Saudi Arabia a great place to save money. Highlights Two-plus years teaching experience required. Paid airfare, health insurance, high salaries, over 3,000 US dollars, and opportunity to save. Vietnam Of all the countries listed here, Vietnam probably offers the best balance between earning potential and lifestyle for new teachers. Salaries are relatively high and the cost of living is low. Highlights High salary, 2,000 US dollars. Low cost of living. Beautiful beaches and lush mountains. Fascinating history and culture. High demand for English teachers. The United Arab Emirates The United Arab Emirates is a great place for those with a couple of years teaching experience and the right qualifications. The lifestyle may not be as easy going as Thailand or Vietnam, but you will still have the chance to make better money and there's certainly more to do than in Saudi Arabia. Highlights Paid airfares, end of contract bonus. High salary, over 3,000 US dollars. Two-plus years teaching experience required. Opportunity to save despite high cost of living. More entertainment options than Saudi Arabia.