XploreAsia

Program Reviews

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Gabrielle
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Perfect Trip

This was hands down the best experience I could have hoped for! I learned a lot and had fun while doing it. The staff were absolutely amazing.

What was your funniest moment?
Honestly it’s hard to pick just one moment. I had a lot of fun chatting with everyone.
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Angel
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

XploreAsia TESOL

This program was pretty great! The first week was orientation. It prepared everyone for any kind of culture shock and it gave us enough time to get settled before the TESOL course goes into full swing. The staff and everyone involved made it a great experience, we learned hangul, went in a tour to visit a few locations and many more experiences. Once TESOL officially started, we got hands on training, worked in a classroom setting, and taught classes with students. I couldn't ask for a better way to prepare me for my future!

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Find something you are comfortable with, whether it is a type of food or a location, but don't stay in that comfort zone. Use your comfort zone as something to go back to, not the place you reside in. That way you can explore the unknown with confidence.
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Thirzq
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Being in South Korea during TESOL

I really liked the experience, it was highly professional, the staff was always helpful and I really liked the course. The housing were clean and appropriate and all facilities were nearby. Doing the course there provided me with the opportunity to experience a study life, which I really enjoyed. I really appreciated having had the introduction week with various visits like the Hanguk museum or getting dresses up in Nobelmens/Ladies clothes and visiting the palace. The fact that we had cultural and language classes was a huge plus, to get more immersed with the culture. Overall an amazing experience which I can highly recommend!

What was your funniest moment?
The moment when I saw a man with a catstroller, taking his two kitties for a walk😁
Pros
  • Safety
  • Course
  • Helpfulness
Cons
  • Overwhelming at first
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Alexandra
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Cannot recommend them enough!!

I had a great experience with Xplore Asia. They made my transition into Korea very smooth and seamless. The support provided to me while I was in the States and even once I landed in the country they have made this move very stress-free! The accommodations they provided me when I landed for my TESOL course were very nice! The homeowner of the guest house was very available and ready to help with any issues. I highly recommend them to anyone starting their teaching journey in a different country!

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Tendai
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

I wanted my time with with XploreAsia to be longer😭😅

From the beginning of my inquiry to join the program, I've been treated with the highest level of professionalism from the team. SJ, Shannon, Enzo, and Carla, have all made my experience much smoother. The program plus the means to get to South Korea may seem costly at first. However, as my father would say - "cheap is expensive". You honestly see the value of what you paid for. A real life experience of what it means to teach. Sadly due to my visa taking long, i missed out on the orientation week but from what I heard, my peers had a blast.

What was the most nerve-racking moment and how did you overcome it?
Having to teach young learners as part of my Practicum for the tesol course. I over came this by honestly speaking words of Affirmation to myself, prayer, and letting God take the lead.
Pros
  • Carla's teaching methods were perfect. They allowed us tonstay engaged and provide the work in very simple format for students to understand
  • Email responses were very quick. Whenever you'd need some clarity or exrea info. XploreAsia would always be there to help.
  • When you are stuck the team is available to help you to get out of any sticky situation.
Cons
  • None
  • The only con is having to leave these amazing people.
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Dominique
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Thank you, XploreAsia!

I am very happy with the assistance and support the XploreAsia team expressed and provided me with every step of the way. I never would have secured such a life-changing experience if it weren’t for them! I’m gaining new strengths, skills, and insights daily, and I couldn’t be more grateful. The team is patient, understanding, and encouraging. Thank you for inspiring me to abandon my comfort zone and thrive without regrets. I cherish my new reality and its role in bettering me. I’m proud of myself for braving the unknown with an open mind, inquisitiveness, and curiosity.

Claire
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Best Decision I've Ever Made

I loved every second of my experience in Thailand and it wouldn't have been possible without Xplore Asia. Before even arriving in Thailand, people are there to support you every step of the way. Once I got to Thailand the support got even better. You have a week-long orientation where you get to meet other teachers, learn about the culture, and get support with your teaching placement, accommodation, and travel. Once you are at your placement, they are always checking in as well. 10/10 recommend!

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Thailand has such an amazing energy and culture from the food to the people. Everyone is so welcoming and truly wants you to love their country that they are so proud of. My advice would be to embrace that culture and energy fully. Eat where the locals eat. Visit the local markets and temples. Learn how to make the local food. Take a Muay Thai class (this was my favorite thing I did). Just explore the city or town you end up in and you will find amazing experiences and gain the best memories.
Pros
  • Amazing support from Xplore Asia at all times
  • The culture and energy of Thailand
  • Getting to learn and grow as a teacher and person
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Bryan
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Explore Asia

9.5/10

Overall very good program that helps one prepare to move abroad every step of the way!
I'm very happy to finally be in Japan doing what I do as a teacher here in Japan. I teach middle school and everyday is a great challenge and thanks to this program I was able to move here and help shape young minds.
Only thing that I would so is help give advice to those who are new to living in a foreign country especially those going to countries without ac. As summers can be rough if you aren't used to it.

What was your funniest moment?
My students are very hilarious and when they start making jokes in English I can't help but to laugh 😂
Pros
  • Good placement
  • Good support
  • Good communication
Cons
  • Low pay
  • No travel expense help
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Fikile
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

My amazing 14 months in Thailand.

My program started end of May 2023 and l really was nervous because it was my first time going to be away from home for such a long time ,however with the constant support of XA they made it less worrying. I left South Africa already placed at a school in a fishing village which was my requirement to not be placed in a big city. Throughout my placement XA ensured that l was taken care of in terms of my visa applications and my accommodation needs.

I really struggled with the teaching part , there were many days l would feel like quitting however talking and sharing with the other foreign teachers helped a lot because l understood their own challenges also and made me realize l was not alone. At the end of my 6 months in October l decided l wanted to go back home as l was missing my family however after spending 2 weeks travelling and exploring Thailand l decided to give the program another shot , that was the best decision ever. XA then assisted me with the second placement , now in city and the experience there has been nothing but life changing , l have found my voice , my confidence in teaching is strong. I have developed strong bonds with other foreign and local teachers.

In the 14 months of being here in Thailand l have truly grown as an individual and in my passion of teaching. I get to travel during long weekend and explore this beautiful country and mingle with people and understand their culture better. This for me has been the best year of my life.

What was the most nerve-racking moment and how did you overcome it?
The most nerve-wracking moment for me as a new teacher in Thailand was the first day of class ,facing a room full of students with potential language barriers and cultural differences. Overcoming this meant l had to prepare in advance for my lessons ,be flexible and open to new teaching methods.
Pros
  • Travelling Opportunities , teaching in Thailand has given me the chance to explore different locations during weekends and holidays as well as easy access to other Southeast Asian countries.
  • Cultural immersion
  • Welcoming community
Cons
  • Language barrier
  • Separation from family
  • Cultural differences
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Jordan
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Once in a Lifetime Opportunity

I can't possibly recommend Xplore Asia enough for all of their support every single step of the way. I spent longer than most preparing and the Xplore Asia Programs team was patient, informative, and always answered any questions I had regarding paperwork in a timely manner. If you want to go abroad, this is the organization to use! If you are considering this opportunity, stop wondering and do it! It is truly one of the greatest decisions I've ever made, and it is an amazing thing to live where most people vacation. It is a joy to teach so many wonderful students and work alongside an amazing local and international staff.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Don't spend too much time worrying about what your experience will be like and just live in the moment. Once you arrive, things will become clearer with each passing day. Soon after, you'll be a pro. However, don't think it is all "fun" - you ARE here to work, after all. Be sure to be open to exploring on the weekends, but also plan time to relax and unwind! Its all about balance, and you'll have an amazing time making new friends and getting to know your students.
Pros
  • Living where others vacation
  • Ability to learn a new language and/or culture
  • Once in a lifetime opportunity most people only dream of
Cons
  • Many difficult days with poorly-behaved students
  • Not a lot of vacation time
  • Constant language barrier and being stared at in public