Incorporating elements of Chinese Buddhism, Indian mysticism and Middle Eastern Islam, Indonesia is a melting pot of cultures languages and religion. Although ESL teachers often overlook Indonesia in favour of Thailand and South Korea, this vast archipelago of more than 240 million people and 17,000 tropical islands offers a rich and fulfilling lifestyle for anyone wanting to experience the Orient. Popular places teach include Bali, Ubud and Jakarta.
Main Attractions
The resort island of Bali is the most popular tourist destination in Indonesia and you will inevitably visit it if you spend more than a month in the country. The island has a bit of everything; within a half hour drive, you can go from the packed beaches and heaving clubs of Kuta, into the highland paradise of Ubud, with its vegetarian restaurants and early morning Yoga sessions.
If you want to continue on the tourist trail, then the three small party islands of Gili (Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air) off the Western coast of Lombok are a great option. Alternatively, for history and culture, head to the laid back Javanese university city of Yogyakarta, where you can find the stunning temples of Perambanan and Borobudur.
Monthly Salary
Rp10,000,000 to Rp20,000,000 = $1,100 to $2,200. Indonesian law states that a contracted worker receives a basic 13-month salary, payable at Christmas or Eid al Fitr (check if this is included with your employer). Income tax is 15% for salaries between Rp50-250 million per annum.
Working Conditions
In most cases you are responsible for covering airfare. Housing is typically not provided by your employer. Paid holidays and insurance are provided with most contracts (under Indonesian law you receive 10 days of vacation per year, so check holiday allowance). Teaching tends to be 20-30 hours per week.
Visa and Education Requirements
The company employing you will sponsor your work visa. In 2010, the Indonesian Government passed a law making it obligatory for English language teachers to have a degree in English and/ or a teaching degree (a TEFL qualification is no longer acceptable). Without such a qualification it is impossible to get a work visa. This means that companies are desperate for English language teachers with the correct qualifications.
Indonesia TEFL Reviews & Testimonials
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