摘要：每个人都梦想着可以一边工作一边走遍世界，深入了解和感知每个地方的历史和文化，并与当地的人民和社区产生连接的舒适与冒险完美融合的生活方式和人生旅程，而外籍教师的职业正是完美适配。来跟随外教Jose Valcarcel体验他的多样性人生的丰富与热爱。

每个人都梦想着可以一边工作一边走遍世界，深入了解和感知每个地方的历史和文化，并与当地的人民和社区产生连接的舒适与冒险完美融合的生活方式和人生旅程，而外籍教师的职业正是完美适配。来跟随外教Jose Valcarcel体验他的多样性人生的丰富与热爱。

* 看英文版全文文意请以下方英文原稿为准

The Author：Jose Valcarcel

我叫Jose Valcarcel，是一名国际教育家和实践艺术家，在五个不同的国家拥有超过15年的艺术教学经验。作为一名终身学习者和狂热的旅行者，我相信国际教学是教育和冒险的完美结合。我的全球经历丰富了我的课堂，培养了创造力、好奇心和对文化多样性的深刻理解。

作为一名国际教育工作者，我的全球旅程是丰富多彩的，收到不同国家的文化、社区以及教室等诸多经历的影响。我一直秉持杯子是半满的乐观心态，专注于每个国家赋予的美丽、机遇和增长。虽然每个地方都有自己的不尽完美之处，但这就是生活，也是我的每段旅程如此独特的原因。

泰国是外国人最容易居住的国家之一。所谓的“文化冲击”往往很小，因为该国有着悠久的欢迎国际游客的历史。这里的学生通常表现良好，学校的文化活力多样。以充满活力的韩国、中国和印度社区为中心的特色，为教学和日常生活增添和融入了源源动力。

在课堂之外，泰国本身就是探险家的宝藏。从热带岛屿到山区村庄，这个国家提供了很多便利，你在假期里不会觉得有必要走很远。也就是说，如果旅行癖袭来，老挝、柬埔寨和越南等邻近目的地只需乘坐短途、经济实惠的航班即可到达——有时往返机票便宜到50美元！

在西班牙教书是一种很难比拟的经历。尽管西班牙幅员辽阔，但它的多样性令人难以置信，从阳光普照的海岸线和历史名城到繁华的节日和世界级的艺术，应有尽有。西班牙人对生活的热情是有感染力的——总有音乐、美食和文化可供欣赏。

然而，如果省钱是你的首要任务，西班牙（和欧洲大部分地区）可能不是最好的选择，因为工资竞争力较弱。也就是说，这里的生活方式首屈一指。对我来说，西班牙仍然是一个顶级目的地，每天都感觉像是在庆祝。

埃及是众多国际学校的所在地，但这个地方可能并不适合所有人。文化既强大又美丽，虽然人们普遍热情好客，但埃及的生活有时会感到混乱和压倒性。尽管如此，对于那些愿意接受其节奏的人来说，埃及提供了一次非常有益的经历。

目前，我自己在中国教书。我认为，受益于其技术的发展，中国是外国人最容易定居的国家之一。虽然语言障碍在这里可能更为明显，但方便实用的应用程序使日常生活出奇地顺利。

中国是国际教育的中心，提供美式、英式和IB等多种课程。工资极具竞争力，储蓄潜力是世界上最好的。除了经济利益，中国丰富的历史、令人惊叹的自然景观和多样化的气候——从沙漠到山脉到热带地区——使其成为一个迷人的探索之地。

每个目的地都标志着我生命中的一个时刻，一个充满回忆和成长的篇章。我的两个孩子出生在泰国和中国，这两个地方在我心中永远占有特殊的地位。我结交了终生的朋友，向优秀的学生学习，在为人和为师的道路上成长。

国际教学教会了我拥抱变化，寻找积极的一面，并对世界保持好奇。无论你走到哪里，总有新的东西要发现——我相信，最好的东西永远会来的。

灵活性是关键

灵活性是国际教学成功的基石。我曾与一些国际教师一起工作，他们不断将东道国与母国进行比较，对每一个差异都挑剔。这种心态适得其反。每个国家都有自己独特的生活方式，作为客人，我们无权评判或试图改变现状。相反，我们应该接受差异，适应周围的环境，并尽最大努力产生积极的影响。

灵活性也适用于构建连接。交朋友——无论是与同事还是当地人——都是至关重要的。你的新朋友可能不会分享你的风格或生活方式，但他们可以帮助你创建一个重要的社交网络，让你的体验更加丰富和愉快。

采用探险家的心态

作为一名国际教师，探索你的东道国应该是一个优先事项。保持好奇心，学习语言，即使只是几个短语——一个简单的“谢谢”或“你好”可以在你的互动中产生重大影响。多年来，我遇到了一些老师，他们在国外呆了很多年，但从未走出过自己的舒适区。他们离开时没有真正体验该国的文化，这是一个遗憾的错失。花时间探索你的社区周边，欣赏生活中的细节，沉浸在周围的美景中。

成为一名团队合作者

如果你和一个不是老师的伴侣一起出国，考虑一下他们的职业前景。虽然对于一个没有工作的伴侣来说，第一年的调整可能是可控的，但从长远来看，这往往是不可持续的。选择双方都能在职业和个人方面蓬勃发展的目的地，以保持平衡和充实的生活方式。

与家乡保持联系

无论你走多远，与你的家乡保持联系都是至关重要的。每年回家一两次可以让你脚跟站得更稳，保持与家人和朋友的关系。虽然这通常是一个财务问题，但优先考虑这些旅行可以防止未来心中的遗憾，并让你专注于真正重要的事情。

培养幽默感

在国外生活和工作也伴随着一些挫折。无论是文化误解还是官僚主义的繁文缛节，微笑着面对这些挑战都会让一切变得不同。良好的幽默感可以将潜在的挫折转化为成长和韧性的时刻。问问自己：值得难过吗？如果答案是否定的，那么深呼吸，微笑，继续前进。

持续保持爱好

追求运动、电影或游戏等爱好不仅是放松的好方法，也是结识新朋友的绝佳机会。参与你喜欢的活动可以帮助你在工作之外建立联系，拓宽你的社交圈，丰富你在新国家的经历。

避免外籍圈子泡沫

许多国际教师不努力与当地人见面。虽然寻求熟悉社区的舒适是可以理解的，但走出外籍人士泡沫可以带来真正真实的体验。尝试当地早餐，加入自行车团体，或参加社区活动。像当地人一样生活可以让你在更深层次上与文化联系，并获得新的视角。

活在当下，心存感恩

在一个新的国家呆了几个月后，很容易陷入日常的按部就班，而忽略了周围环境的不凡特质。在充满挑战的时刻，提醒自己你正在拥有独一无二的经历。你过着许多人只能梦想的生活，认真对待这种探索新文化和创造终生难忘的回忆的特权。

尽管面临各种挑战，但我不会用国际教师的生活方式去换取其他任何东西。每一天都为成长、发现和连接提供了新的机会。伴随正能量的心态，每一天的教学和每一个朝家迈的脚步都是一次令人难以置信的冒险。拥抱旅程，珍惜经历，充分享受这非凡的生活。

My name is Jose Valcarcel, and I am an international educator and practicing artist with over 15 years of experience teaching art in five different countries. As a lifelong learner and avid traveler, I believe that teaching internationally is the perfect blend of education and adventure. My global experiences enrich my classroom, fostering creativity, curiosity, and a deep appreciation for cultural diversity.

My journey as an international educator has been wonderfully diverse, shaped by experiences across cultures, communities, and classrooms. I’ve always been someone who sees the glass as half full—choosing to focus on the beauty, opportunity, and growth each country has to offer. While every place comes with its own pros and cons, that’s what makes life, and this journey, so unique.

Thailand is one of the easiest countries to live in as a foreigner. The so-called “cultural shock” is often minimal, as the country has a long history of welcoming international visitors. Students here are generally well-behaved, and the cultural diversity in schools—featuring vibrant Korean, Chinese, and Indian communities—adds a dynamic mix to both teaching and daily life.

Beyond the classroom, Thailand itself is a treasure for explorers. From tropical islands to mountainous villages, the country has so much to offer that you won’t feel the need to travel far during holidays. That said, if wanderlust strikes, neighboring destinations like Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam are just a short, affordable flight away—sometimes as cheap as $50 for a return ticket!

Teaching in Spain is an experience that’s hard to match. Despite its size, Spain is incredibly diverse, offering everything from sun-soaked coastlines and historic cities to bustling festivals and world-class art. Spaniards have a zest for life that’s infectious—there’s always music, food, and culture to enjoy.

However, if saving money is your top priority, Spain (and much of Europe) may not be the best option, as salaries are less competitive. That said, the lifestyle here is second to none. For me, Spain remains a top destination where every day feels like a celebration.

Egypt is home to a wide range of international schools, but it’s a place that may not be for everyone. The culture is as powerful as it is beautiful, and while the people are generally warm and welcoming, life in Egypt can sometimes feel chaotic and overwhelming. Still, for those willing to embrace its rhythm, Egypt offers a deeply rewarding experience.

Currently, I find myself teaching in China, and I’ve come to believe that it’s one of the easiest countries for foreigners to settle into—thanks to technology. While the language barrier can be more noticeable here, the availability of convenient apps makes daily life surprisingly smooth.

China is a hub for international education, offering a variety of curricula such as American, British, and IB programs. Salaries are highly competitive, and the saving potential is among the best in the world. Beyond financial benefits, China’s rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and diverse climates—from deserts to mountains and tropical regions—make it a fascinating place to explore.

Every destination has marked a moment in my life, a chapter filled with memories and growth. My two children were born in Thailand and China, two places that will always hold a special place in my heart. I’ve made lifelong friends, learned from incredible students, and grown as both an educator and a person.

Teaching internationally has taught me to embrace change, seek out the positives, and stay curious about the world. Wherever you go, there’s always something new to discover—and the best, I believe, is always yet to come.

Flexibility is Key

Flexibility is the cornerstone of success in international teaching. I’ve worked alongside educators who constantly compared their host country to their home nation, finding fault with every difference. Such a mindset is counterproductive. Each country has its own unique way of life, and as guests, it’s not our place to judge or attempt to change things. Instead, we should embrace the differences, adapt to our surroundings, and do our best to make a positive impact.

Flexibility also applies to building connections. Making friends—whether with colleagues or locals—is essential. Your new friends might not share your style or approach to life, but they can help create a vital social network, making your experience more enriching and enjoyable.

Adopt an Explorer’s Mindset

As an international teacher, exploring your host country should be a priority. Be curious. Learn the language, even if it’s just a few phrases—a simple “thank you” or “hello” can make a significant difference in your interactions. Over the years, I’ve met teachers who spent years abroad without ever stepping beyond their comfort zones. They left without truly experiencing the culture around them, which is a missed opportunity. Take the time to discover your neighborhood, appreciate the small details, and soak in the beauty of your surroundings.

Be a Team Player

If you’re moving abroad with a partner who isn’t a teacher, consider their career prospects. While the first year of adjustment may be manageable for a non-working partner, it’s often unsustainable in the long term. Choose destinations where both of you can thrive professionally and personally to maintain a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.

Stay Connected to Your Roots

No matter how far you roam, maintaining a connection to your roots is essential. Visiting home once or twice a year can ground you and preserve relationships with family and friends. While it’s often a matter of finances, prioritizing these trips can prevent future regrets and keep you anchored in what truly matters.

Cultivate a Sense of Humor

Living and working abroad comes with its share of frustrations. Whether it’s cultural misunderstandings or bureaucratic red tape, facing these challenges with a smile can make all the difference. A good sense of humor can turn potential setbacks into moments of growth and resilience. Ask yourself: Is it worth getting upset? If the answer is no, then take a breath, smile, and move on.

Keep Doing Your Hobbies

Pursuing hobbies like sports, cinema, or gaming is not just a great way to relax but also an excellent opportunity to meet new people. Engaging in activities you love can help you build connections outside of work, broadening your social circle and enriching your experience in a new country.

Avoid the Expat Bubble

A lot of international teachers do not make any effort to meet local people. While it’s understandable to seek the comfort of a familiar community, stepping outside the expat bubble can lead to truly authentic experiences. Try a local breakfast, join a cycling group, or attend community events. Living like a local allows you to connect with the culture on a deeper level and gain new perspectives.

Stay Present and Grateful

After a few months in a new country, it’s easy to slip into routine and overlook the extraordinary nature of your surroundings. During challenging moments, remind yourself of the uniqueness of your experience. You’re living a life many can only dream of. Reflect on the privilege of exploring new cultures and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Despite its challenges, I wouldn’t trade the life of an international teacher for anything else. Every day offers new opportunities for growth, discovery, and connection. With the right mindset, each teaching day and every step back home can be an incredible adventure. Embrace the journey, cherish the experiences, and make the most of this remarkable life.

来源：顶思TopSchools