Gotoco FUNDED TEFL Adventures (Bali, Thailand, Colombia, Europe, SE Asia!)

Gotoco FUNDED TEFL Adventures (Bali, Thailand, Colombia, Europe, SE Asia!) Reviews

Brooke
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

What an experience!

My two week teaching placement in Thailand was an incredibly rewarding and memorable experience. I had the opportunity to teach both school children and university students, immerse myself in Thai culture, and develop my confidence and independence. This programme was well organised and the coordinators were supportive, professional, and always available to help when needed.

One of the highlights was seeing students engage with lessons and gain confidence in their English skills, particularly when lessons included interactive games and activities. I also enjoyed the cultural experiences, including visiting temples, exploring local communities, and spending time with fellow participants.

Although it took a couple of days to adjust to a new environment, the support from the team and the friendships I made helped me settle in quickly. Overall, the experience exceeded my expectations and gave me valuable skills that I can take forward into my future career. I would highly recommend this programme to anyone looking to gain teaching experience, experience a new culture, and challenge themselves in a supportive environment. I would definitely do this again!

Keyleigh
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

An experience I will cherish for life!

Going to Thailand with GOTOCO was nothing short of the experience of a lifetime! Immersing myself in the teaching experience abroad has done wonders for my self confidence and improving my public speaking skills. Thailand is such a beautiful country from the people, to the landscape and of course the food, the programme allows you to fully experience it all in locations many travellers overlook.

The people you meet on the GOTOCO cohort and the English majors we taught alongside, are some of the kindest people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting, and for that I cannot recommend the programme enough!

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Pack lots of jungle spray for the mozzies!
Pros
  • People you meet are incredible!
  • Food!!! :)
  • Thai culture/people, such a beautiful country!
What other participants should know
  • That it was over so soon!
Gabriella
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Life Changing Experience In Vietnam

Participating in this programme was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had! From making lifelong friends and exploring Vietnam’s amazing culture to trying their local foods. One of my favourite parts about the whole experience was teaching the children; their excitement, confidence and smiles made every lesson so rewarding.

The programme was incredibly well organised and the staff were supportive throughout the whole experience. I would recommend this experience to anyone looking for an unforgettable adventure that combines travel, cultural immersion, and a meaningful teaching experience that you will never forget.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
My advice would be to keep an open mind, not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, and make the most of every opportunity, as the experience goes by faster than you would expect.
Pros
  • Amazing Teaching Experience
  • Food and Culture
  • Gain friends for life
What other participants should know
  • HOT!
  • The programme goes by very quickly.
Kelley
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

A love affair with Thailand aka the country of love

I arrived in Thailand feeling shipwrecked—disconnected, drained, and living life on autopilot. Saying yes to Gotoco felt like a risk, but it became the best decision I’ve made.

From the ancient temples of Ayutthaya to the warmth of Kamphaeng Phet, Thailand unlocked something in me and opened me up in the most beautiful way. I was moved to tears by the culture, the history, the spirituality. Rajabhat University welcomed us like family—pure love, honour, and joy. Teaching there was electric. The English camps were high‑energy, transformative, and deeply bonding. Watching children learn and trainee teachers grow right before my eyes was monumental.

Bangkok was the perfect finale—rooftop dinners, Muay Thai, cooking classes, riverside views that reminded me how breathtaking nature can be. Thailand is known as the land of smiles, but I can confirm it is the land of love.

Gotoco and Further Afield didn’t just give me an adventure; they helped me reconnect with parts of myself I thought were gone. I felt alive again—joyful, present, and re‑engaged with life. The memories are etched on my heart forever.

If you’re hesitating, don’t. Say yes. Apply. Take the leap. The only regret you’ll have is not going.

What was your funniest moment?
We were instructed not to go running at night, and if we saw dogs, not to run, as guess what they like running. Our roommate went out for a run one evening, encountered a pack of dogs, and ran for her life. Big mistake- only by diving into a bush and the chivalry of a campus security guard did she manage to make it out unscathed! Be warned, the dogs out there run the streets, and they are a different type of mafia...
Pros
  • Deep cultural and spiritual immersion
  • Genuine community, warmth and belonging
  • Personal reawakening and powerful reset
What other participants should know
  • Navigating unconscious bias and entitlement from some of the group
  • Group dynamics ingroup/outgroup and lack of authenticity
  • Psychologically unsafe spaces
Karol Morillo Profile Picture
Karol
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

More than a teaching programme; a life-changing few weeks in Thailand

GOTOCO was so much more than a teaching programme for me — it was a real chance to grow, both personally and professionally. From the very first day the support was fantastic: clear communication before departure, hands-on guidance throughout, and follow-up afterwards. I gained genuine classroom experience, made lasting friendships with other participants and locals, and immersed myself in a completely new culture. The coordinators were professional and truly caring, and the activities they organised brought everyone together. Most of all, it helped me discover a real passion for supporting students who struggle, especially those with learning difficulties. I came away with a TEFL qualification, more confidence and stronger communication skills, and a much clearer sense of where I want to go next. I'd recommend it to anyone thinking about it.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Go in with an open mind and a spirit of adventure. Say yes to the activities, take time to get to know the local community, and don't worry if teaching feels daunting at first — the training and support are excellent and you'll grow into it quickly. Bring light clothing for the heat, and make the most of every moment, because the time goes by so fast.
Pros
  • Outstanding support before, during and after the programme
  • Real hands-on teaching experience plus a recognised TEFL qualification
  • Wonderful cultural immersion and lasting friendships with participants and locals
What other participants should know
  • The days can be full-on, so it's worth pacing yourself in the heat
  • Two weeks flies by — I'd happily have stayed longer
sam
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Gotoco Thailand TEFL programe

I had a fantastic time taking part in this program, the guidance and structure provided by Morgan and George was extremely helpful and beneficial.
By being able to experience a new culture including trying new foods, visiting temples historic sites and national parks i feel that i have a deeper understanding of Thai culture.
Teaching English was extremely rewarding and meeting the university students and children at the English camps was also a great experience.
I would recommend this program to anyone looking to travel the world, have new experiences, gain personal and professional skills and meet new people.

gemma davidson Profile Picture
gemma
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Amazing teaching experience Thailand

Wow what an amazing experience from start to finish I had the best time and made memories to last a lifetime you will not be disappointed if you complete this programme. The teaching was so rewarding and the children so polite and friendly, the staff could not fo enough gor you, we were treated so well and packed in so much fun and cultural experiences into the trip , also the food was amazing and our hosts Morgan and George took us to some hidden gems. From river boat trips, to waterfalls, temples and ruins, bike rides, night markets, karaoke, bathing with the elephants , it was all amazing.

What was the most surprising thing you saw or did?
Amazing set of activities and excursions planned for us
Pros
  • Teaching
  • Excursions
  • Food
What other participants should know
  • None
Gerson
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Gotoco review

I had an amazing experience volunteering with Gotoco in Vietnam and would highly recommend it to anyone looking to travel, experience a new culture, and make a positive impact.

The coordinators were fantastic throughout the entire trip. They were organised, approachable, and always happy to help, which made the experience stress-free and enjoyable.

One of the best parts was getting to know the local culture. It was fascinating to see both the similarities and differences between life in Vietnam and the West. The local people were incredibly welcoming and genuinely interested in learning about our own cultures, which made the cultural exchange feel meaningful.

Teaching English was a rewarding experience, and meeting both the other volunteers and the local students created memories I’ll never forget. The food was also incredible, and it was fun learning to use chopsticks properly while trying so many delicious dishes.

Overall, it was an unforgettable experience filled with amazing people, new friendships, and memories that will stay with me for a lifetime. I would definitely recommend Gotoco to anyone considering volunteering abroad.

What would you improve about this program?
I would to have the first week of teaching and the last week of exploring
Pros
  • Culture and people
  • Making new friendships
What other participants should know
  • Too hot sometimes
  • Schools cancelling lessons
Mark McGrath Profile Picture
Mark
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Vietnam with Gotoco

Amazing experience from Day 1, the support team were incredible, my colleagues were a great bunch and I couldn't have wished for a better group to share my experience and Da Nang was beautiful and it's people friendly and welcoming. The teaching experience was so fulfilling especially my time at the university with the interaction with the students a magical experience. I would definitely recommend and if there are any free spaces, I would be happy to do it again. I have told numerous friends of my time with Gotoco and shared links so expect more applications!

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Let go of any nervousness or anxiety, this will be an awesome experience. Guaranteed!
Pros
  • Food
  • People
  • Experience
What other participants should know
  • It's very hot
Leisha
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

An Unforgettable Experience in Vietnam

Overall, I had an amazing time in Vietnam. It was a fantastic opportunity to experience a new culture, gain valuable classroom experience, and work alongside inspiring local teachers and students. The highlight for me was building genuine connections with the students, watching their confidence grow, and making lasting friendships throughout the programme. It was an unforgettable experience both personally and professionally.

This programme confirmed that teaching is the right career path for me. It helped me develop practical teaching skills, build confidence in the classroom, and sparked an interest in teaching abroad in the future. It has had a really positive impact on my career direction.

I would definitely recommend this programme to anyone looking to gain teaching experience while exploring a new country. It offers a great balance of professional development, personal growth, and fun, with plenty of unforgettable memories along the way.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Here's a concise and friendly response:

Be open-minded, flexible, and willing to step outside your comfort zone (it really is where the best experiences happen). Take time to get to know the local teachers and students, embrace the culture, and don't worry if everything doesn't go exactly to plan. Pack light, stay hydrated, and make the most of every opportunity, as the experience goes by much faster than you expect!
Pros
  • Gained valuable hands-on teaching experience in a supportive environment
  • Experienced Vietnamese culture while building relationships with local teachers, students, and fellow volunteers.
  • Increased confidence, adaptability, and communication skills through real classroom experience.
What other participants should know
  • The weather and heat took some time to adjust to.
  • Lesson planning time could occasionally feel limited.
  • The programme goes by very quickly, you'll likely wish you had more time!