Hi Everyone,
I currently live in Abu Dhabi and was offered a position in KZ, which I will pursue once I complete my contract here. I would like to know a few things as I am considering visiting before I move there:
1. How is the housing? I know TeachAway states that your housing, bill and internet are paid. However, I would like to know some details about the size and efficiency of the housing because I would consider shipping my furniture to KZ when I move (I am saving up the money to do so).
2. How is life where you live? How are the locals? What is the accessibility to the outside world such as traveling...etc? How are the locals? Do they like westerners?
3. How long have you been there and if you had it all to do again, what would you do differently? What are you glad you did?
4. How is the salary when compared to USD? I know it will be different contingent upon experience, but I would like to know if it is comparable to other teaching salaries around the world. Will I be able to afford to travel when we have vacation time?
5. Finally, is the school calendar stable? Our school calendar here changed in the beginning of the year and our breaks were shortened. That is one of the few things that disturbs me about being in Abu Dhabi. This is extremely important to me.
I know education isn't perfect anywhere and people often complain about the differences in educations systems, but that's not important to me. What is important is that I can travel to a place that has a rich culture and learn from the people. I noticed that the contracts are one year, which I feel is very feasible.
Thanks in advanced for any assistance you can provide.