The Fewer Things

Program Reviews

Molly
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

The Fewer Things: Thailand 2022

Having dealt with many TEFL providers, I can honestly say that TFT top them all! Jaemi provided an outstanding level of support throughout the process: from day one of our applications till the very end of our teaching contracts. Considering we were travelling during the pandemic in Thailand, we didn't once feel apprehensive or lacking in knowledge; TFT was just a phone call away whenever we needed them. Alongside this, the company put us in touch with a huge group of fellow teachers- many of whom have become friends for life even if they weren't placed together.
What's really unique about this company is their ethos surrounding teaching placements. TFT go above and beyond to make sure each preference is met, and placed all of us in some fantastic locations where we experienced Thailand's authentic beauty. Jaemi even managed to place 8 friends in the same town/province after we applied as a group- which we can't thank him enough for!

Nawwal
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

South Korea!!!!! I still cannot believe I am actually here!!!!

I had been looking at a way to move back to Asia and I reached out to the team and little did I know at the time that it was going to be a match made in heaven. Every person who I was put in contact with (Jaemi, Enzo & SJ) were extremely positive, welcoming and supportive. I reached out way back at the end of 2020, knowing full well that I wanted to be out in Korea by March 2022 and the team helped make this dream possible. They were easy to talk to, always answered my emails swiftly and in the know of every tiny detail following the changes to the intake process. I never felt stressed ( well maybe for the Epik interview, but even then SJ coached me on how to answer the questions with patience and confidence!)

Having spoken to other teachers who arrived this intake and having the horror stories that some had been through I am so greatful for this team of individuals who I felt were so supportive, helpful and who constantly checked in throughout the process and who have continued to do so since arriving almost a month ago. I am still settling in but enjoying the process so far and taking it day by day!

I cannot express enough gratitude for how easy this process was made for me by the TFT team and I would hand on heart recommend them if you are looking for a recruitment team to go through! Thank you guys for always answering my questions, even the really silly ones!

What was the most unfamiliar thing you ate?
Sannakji and raw beef!
It is not for everyone but if you guys are up for something a little crazy that actually tastes good this is something to try!
Read my full story
Ellen
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

The Fewer Things - South Korea 2021

I had taken an interest in teaching abroad a few years previous, and hadn't had the opportunity or motivation to act on that interest until I came across an advertisement for The Fewer Things.
My initial interview made me feel confident and excited, and from then I always felt supported and in contact with the team as they helped me through each process. Moving to South Korea during a pandemic wasn't an easy thing, but TFT was always ready to give guidance.
TFT makes sure that you have interviews with reputable schools and always puts your preferences first.
What I really appreciated about TFT was how much they encouraged me to follow my gut, and really think for myself and what I wanted out of this experience. It can be really overwhelming to make all these decisions, but TFT helps break down each option and give you the confidence to make the choices best for you.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
The advice I would give to anyone moving abroad is the embrace not just the country, but also the area you are moving to. Take full advantage of your situation and experience everything the way you want to. If you're someone who likes spending every evening out or someone who does their exploring at the weekend, don't hesitate to make those plans for yourself and enjoy your time.
Georgia
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

South Korea: TESOL & EPIK Placement

When I applied for this placement in January 2020, during a time when the festive season had recently been cancelled by covid and everyone's spirits were low, I never dreamed that a year later I would be ringing in 2022 in South Korea! I am not you're usual adventurer, I think I applied for this purely because of I was bored of being boring. From my first conversation with Jaemi from The Fewer Things team, I was completely convinced that I could do this. He was incredibly supportive and even now continues to be. I probably bothered him with how many emails and messages I sent, but he was always there to help. The process to get to South Korea is not an easy one, but it is completely worth it!

South Korea is an absolutely stunning country! I am based in a smaller seaside city called Donghae-si in Gangwon-do. As an avid hiker this was an ideal destination for me, as I am only a walk away from mountains and beach trails. But, I am also only a 2 hour bus journey away from Seoul. Yes moving to a foreign country is incredibly daunting, but the local people are very welcoming and even if you don't know a single word of Korean a simple 'annyeonghaseyo' will go a long way; and you'll be amazed at how fast you'll pick up Korean phrases.

I can't simplify how much there is to do in South Korea, it's an incredibly cultured country, personally a trip to Gyeongbokgung palace is an absolute must! If you are a foodie you will also love it here as the food is fresh and delicious! Also South Korea is a very safe country to live in, if you are a solo traveller like myself then you have nothing to worry about. My schools have been very welcoming and even based in a smaller city I am never far from a friendly face, as I have met other foreign teachers who have hopefully become friends for life. Also this placement is the most rewarding job I have ever had. If I was to sum-up my experience in one word it would be, phenomenal.

I would highly recommend teaming up with The Fewer Things to come to South Korea, as even though it wasn't an easy process to get here, I wouldn't be here at all without their continued support. I'd urge anyone to apply for this placement as South Korea is the place to be!

What was the most surprising thing you saw or did?
I come from a tiny village in the north of England, and even though I don't live under a rock and have lived in bigger cities like Leeds and Liverpool, as well as visited London, the sheer size of Seoul shocked me. It is massive and there is so much to uncover! I would never trade my seaside placement, but Seoul in itself is an experience that keeps on giving.
Justin
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Teaching in Thailand!

I had planned to go to Thailand just as the pandemic hit and my plans got cancelled with the school I was signed up with, then I came across the instagram of The Fewer Things and they had been posting pictures of some teachers flying out, so I contacted them to see how it was possible and what process I would have to go through, I was a bit worried I'd have to go through such a long process again to be let down at the last minute. But, as soon as I had my first call with Jaemi, I was so excited and pleasantly surprised at the information and knowledge I had been given. I flew out late 2020 and stayed in quarantine for 14 nights, which was a pretty crazy experience! I am so thankful for the support I received from the team and it was really reassuring that I had constant support with everything.

I was placed in a public school in Central Thailand, and absolutely loved it, it was the perfect starting point for me as I only had 20 hours teaching per week, which meant I had plenty of time to take up Muay Thai at the local gym. After my initial contract I transitioned over to an international school in Bangkok, which TFT helped me with and gave me tips on what I should be looking for. Since arriving in Thailand I have been able to travel so much, which is the main reason I came here.

TFT still are in regular contract now to check up on me and just have a general catch up, which is really nice to know since I am not even part of the programme any more! I could not recommend the team at TFT more to new travellers!

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Trust the process! It is quite daunting getting everything together and sometimes I would get worried I'd missed something, but TFT are always on hand to help and have everything in place.
Justin
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Teaching in Thailand

I had planned to go to Thailand just as the pandemic hit and my plans got cancelled with the school I was signed up with, then I came across the instagram of The Fewer Things and they had been posting pictures of some teachers flying out, so I contacted them to see how it was possible and what process I would have to go through, I was a bit worried I'd have to go through such a long process again to be let down at the last minute. But, as soon as I had my first call with Jaemi, I was so excited and pleasantly surprised at the information and knowledge I had been given. I flew out late 2020 and stayed in quarantine for 14 nights, which was a pretty crazy experience! I am so thankful for the support I received from the team and it was really reassuring that I had constant support with everything.

I was placed in a public school in Central Thailand, and absolutely loved it, it was the perfect starting point for me as I only had 20 hours teaching per week, which meant I had plenty of time to take up Muay Thai at the local gym. After my initial contract I transitioned over to an international school in Bangkok, which TFT helped me with and gave me tips on what I should be looking for. Since arriving in Thailand I have been able to travel so much, which is the main reason I came here.

TFT still are in regular contract now to check up on me and just have a general catch up, which is really nice to know since I am not even part of the programme any more! I could not recommend the team at TFT more to new travellers!

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Trust the process fully. There was so many times I had was worried or anxious that things were not going to work out. But TFT give you everything you need and are always free for a chat.
Hannah
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

An experience you will never forget!

Having previously taught ESL in Vietnam, I was searching for a similar experience! The Fewer Things was the agency for me. Although TFT is a relatively new agency, they excel in understanding the wants and needs of young graduates and will try their best to accommodate those. The support from TFT is what sets this agency apart from the others. From the initial contact and throughout, the support has been second to none. Always on hand to answer a question or query, which especially during COVID was reassuring and extremely helpful. The Fewer Things place you with a teaching company in Thailand and they can sometimes be unhelpful, but TFT are always happy to speak to them directly and resolve any issues. At first, I was hesitant to be placed in the ‘rural’, less known areas of Thailand but after arriving in my town ‘Chaiyaphum’, I’m extremely grateful. Although the bigger cities are appealing, being in Chaiyaphum meant that I’ve been able to challenge myself and have a truly Thai authentic experience. I recommend TFT to those who are looking for a good balance of work and travel, alongside meeting some friends for life!

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Know that there will be many people in the same position as you, starting this journey for the first time. If you're unsure, just go for it. There will be plenty of ups and downs but it will all be worth it in the end. You won't regret it!
Angie
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Moving to Shanghai!

I would highly recommend The Fewer Things to anybody who is looking to move to China to teach English. From the initial stages of applying The Fewer things has been nothing but supportive and knowledgeable on the process. Moving to Shanghai in the middle of a pandemic was not easy, there were many hurdles but the process was made less daunting with the help of The Fewer Things as they were always there to answer questions and guide you every step of the way.

After arriving in China The Fewer things has continued to be supportive and helpful. They check in regularly to make sure everything is going well and make sure you are adjusting to your new life. The Fewer Things has been helpful in all aspects of life here in China, from giving you advise and tips on teaching to recommending restaurants and bars! The language barrier can be difficult at times when communicating with your employers in Shanghai but The Fewer Things is always there to help. Whenever I've needed some guidance or help with anything The Fewer Things has alway been quick to help. The Fewer Things has made the transition into teaching and moving abroad very smooth!

What was the most nerve-racking moment and how did you overcome it?
Waiting for my COVID results during my 27 hour layover! I travelled with a friend so we try to not think about it and got some food and chilled in one of the airports bars.
Carla
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Guardian angel

I would have been absolutely clueless without the help from the fewer things. They have been very supportive and knowledgeable throughout the whole process. Whenever, I am unsure or need help they are always there for support and guidance. While being in China I have encountered some difficult situations with housing but this was easily resolved and sorted with the help of the fewer things.
The fewer things has made my transition from England to China very smooth. Being alone in a new country can be very daunting but knowing that the fewer things are always there is very reassuring.

What was the most nerve-racking moment and how did you overcome it?
The most nerve racking experience was when I went rock climbing over the yandang mountains! A group of us went on an adventurous weekend trip to the mountains to explore more of China.
Henry
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Supportive. Proactive. Organised.

The whole experience has been like night and day compared to another organisation I applied with. I’ve been guided throughout and all promises have been delivered on. I was even able to arrive in Korea 3 months sooner than initially expected as well. Everyone involved seems to genuinely have my best interests at heart. I now work in the heart of Seoul with great people, and I’m thankful to everyone involved. The city is vibrant, full of life and with free accommodation, it’s extremely affordable.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Make friends with foreigners not just westerners. Join a gym or find a sports team or some sort of club you’re interested in, find somewhere to get a haircut. Get the basic things organised you need to feel a part of a community and make a new home in your city.

Get online as well and meet new people. I’ve used dating apps to meet new friends who have been amazing tour guides and made my experiences in new places so much easier.

If you’re spending the majority of your time inside, you are doing it all wrong. Eat like Koreans, party like Koreans and explore as much as possible.

On my first day out of quarantine in Seoul… I went out on my own (nervous), got a little tipsy and ended making friends and having the night of my life. Amazing experiences won’t be handed to you on a plate, but you really don’t have to try too hard to go and get them.

Step outside your comfort zone and you won’t regret it. Good luck and back yourself.