Teach English in Hoi An, Vietnam (2024)

Nestled on Vietnam's central coast, Hoi An is a vibrant city echoing with history, culture, and charm. Known for its well-preserved Ancient Town, crisscrossed by winding canals, the city is a harmonious blend of cultures over the centuries – from the indigenous Chams to Chinese, Japanese, and European traders.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hoi An's radiant yellow buildings adorned with colorful lanterns, cobbled streets, and wooden shophouses are a picturesque backdrop for any endeavor, including teaching. The Thu Bon River adds to the city's allure, with traditional boats floating by and the night markets illuminated by lanterns, showcasing the city's deep-rooted traditions.

Though smaller than cities like Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi, Hoi An has been experiencing a surge in tourism over the last decade. This has led to an increased demand for English education, making it a growing hub for ESL teachers.

Apart from its historical allure, Hoi An also boasts beautiful beaches like An Bang and Cua Dai, offering a perfect blend of cultural immersion and relaxation. The surrounding countryside, with its rice paddies and traditional villages, provides an authentic Vietnamese experience.

For those looking to teach English in a location steeped in tradition yet welcoming to modern influences, Hoi An offers a unique setting unlike any other in Vietnam.

Reasons to Teach English in Hoi An, Vietnam

Cultural Immersion: Hoi An provides a rich tapestry of Vietnamese history and culture. Teaching here allows educators to deeply immerse themselves in a setting where traditional customs and practices are still very much alive. From the monthly lantern festival to learning about the city’s ancient trading port history, there's no shortage of cultural experiences.
Smaller Classes, Closer Connections: Due to its smaller size compared to metropolises like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, many English schools in Hoi An tend to have smaller class sizes. This offers teachers the opportunity to forge closer relationships with their students and cater lessons more individually.
Laid-back Lifestyle: The pace of life in Hoi An is more relaxed than in the bustling urban centers. This can translate to a less stressful teaching environment and a better work-life balance.
Beachside Living: With some of Vietnam’s most pristine beaches a short distance away, teachers can enjoy weekend getaways or even daily sunset views after a day in the classroom. This coastal advantage provides an ideal setting for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Affordable Cost of Living: While Hoi An is a tourist hotspot, the cost of living remains relatively low. Teachers can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle, savoring local delicacies, residing in charming accommodations, and engaging in various activities without breaking the bank.
Growing Demand for English: As tourism continues to flourish, and with Hoi An becoming an increasingly popular expat destination, the demand for learning English has surged. Local businesses, in particular, are keen on hiring staff proficient in English to cater to international tourists.
Authentic Vietnamese Experience: Unlike larger cities where Western influences are more pronounced, Hoi An offers a more authentic experience. Teachers can explore local markets, indulge in traditional Vietnamese cuisine, and engage with friendly locals on a daily basis.
Opportunity for Personal Growth: Navigating the challenges and rewards of teaching in a city like Hoi An provides unparalleled personal and professional growth. The city's unique blend of tradition and modernity offers teachers a chance to adapt, learn, and evolve.
Strategic Location: Hoi An's central location in Vietnam makes it a strategic base for exploring other parts of the country during holidays or breaks. Whether it's venturing north to the imperial city of Hue or south to the bustling city of Da Nang, teachers are well-placed for travel.
Community Feel: The close-knit expat and teacher community in Hoi An means that newcomers can quickly feel at home. Sharing experiences, participating in community events, or simply bonding over the shared journey of teaching in this ancient town makes for lasting friendships and memories.

Understanding Hoi An's Education Landscape

Hoi An, while globally recognized for its picturesque streets and historical landmarks, has been evolving in terms of its educational facilities. As the demand for English proficiency grows, so does the educational landscape of the city:

Language Centers: Similar to other Vietnamese cities, Hoi An has a number of language centers catering to students of all ages. These centers often have flexible schedules, including evening and weekend classes, making them popular choices for locals who may be in school or working during traditional hours.
Public Schools: The Vietnamese government, understanding the importance of English in today's globalized world, has been proactive in integrating English lessons into the curriculum of public schools. Teachers might find themselves teaching large classes, but they'll also experience the genuine enthusiasm of young students eager to learn.
International Schools: Although not as prevalent as in larger cities, Hoi An has begun to see a rise in international schools, thanks in part to its growing expat community. These schools often follow international curriculums and have smaller class sizes with more resources available.
Private Tutoring: Given Hoi An's bustling tourism industry, there's a growing demand for private English lessons. Locals working in the tourism sector, from hotel employees to shopkeepers, are keen to improve their language skills, leading to opportunities for teachers to offer one-on-one or small group tutoring.
Community Initiatives: Hoi An's community-driven initiatives, often in collaboration with NGOs, offer programs where teachers can contribute to grassroots-level education, particularly targeting underprivileged communities.

Eligibility and Requirements to Teach English in Hoi An

While the specific requirements to teach English can vary slightly from one institution to another in Hoi An, the foundational eligibility criteria remain consistent throughout Vietnam.

However, for a brief recap:

A bachelor's degree from an accredited university.
Being a native English speaker from The United Kingdom, The United States, Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand or South Africa is required. If you are not a native English speaker you will need an English proficiency certificate (eg. IELTS).
A TEFL, TESOL, or CELTA certification is highly recommended.
While experience is preferred, many institutions in Hoi An are open to hiring first-time teachers.
A clear criminal background check is crucial.
Good health, substantiated by a basic health check.
A genuine passion for teaching and a willingness to understand and adapt to the local culture.

Salary and Benefits for Teaching English in Hoi An

The allure of teaching in Hoi An isn't solely based on the city's charm; it also offers competitive salaries and benefits that can ensure a comfortable lifestyle.

Salary Ranges: Depending on the institution and one's experience and qualifications, an English teacher in Hoi An can expect to earn between 18 to 35 million VND per month.
Contract Bonuses: It's not uncommon for teachers to receive end-of-contract bonuses, providing added incentive to complete their term and possibly renew their contracts.
Teaching Hours: The average teaching week in Hoi An can range from 20 to 30 hours, allowing teachers ample time to explore and enjoy their surroundings.
Vacation and Holidays: Teachers often enjoy paid public holidays and might also receive paid vacation, especially if they're on a year-long contract.
Professional Development: With the growing emphasis on English education, there are opportunities for teachers to participate in workshops and training sessions to further hone their skills.

Living in Hoi An

Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a historic port city located in Central Vietnam, not far from Da Nang. Known for its preserved ancient architecture, vibrant lantern-lit streets, and tranquil riverside setting, Hoi An offers a unique and captivating lifestyle for those who choose to live there. Here are some key aspects and facts about life in Hoi An:

Historical Ambiance: The heart of Hoi An is its Old Town, an impeccably preserved historical area where buildings showcase a blend of indigenous and foreign influences, mainly Chinese and French. Cars are restricted, allowing residents and visitors to wander freely through its quaint streets.
Lantern Festival: Every month, during the full moon, Hoi An transforms into a lantern-lit wonderland. The Lantern Festival sees the Old Town illuminated exclusively by lanterns, candles, and the soft glow from traditional wooden houses – a sight that's both magical and serene.
Artisanal Crafts: The city is a hub for traditional crafts. From tailor-made clothes to handcrafted lanterns and leather goods, the local artisans in Hoi An are known for their meticulous craftsmanship.
Culinary Delights: Hoi An is home to some of Vietnam's most iconic dishes. The city's signature dish, Cao Lau noodles, is a must-try. The local markets offer a plethora of fresh produce, seafood, and local specialties.
Cost of Living: Life in Hoi An is affordable. While it might be slightly costlier than some smaller Vietnamese towns due to its touristic nature, it's still significantly cheaper than many Western cities. Local markets, street food stalls, and even restaurants offer great value for money.
Tranquil Lifestyle: Hoi An doesn't have the frenetic pace of cities like Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi. It offers a more laid-back and peaceful environment, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in Vietnamese culture at a gentle pace.
Natural Beauty: Just a short bike ride away from the main town, you'll find serene rice paddies, water coconut forests, and the pristine An Bang Beach, where residents can relax and enjoy the ocean's tranquility.
Community: Hoi An has a tight-knit community feel. With a mix of locals, expats, and long-term travelers, there's a shared appreciation for the town's beauty and heritage. Numerous cafes and communal spaces cater to this diverse group, facilitating connections and shared experiences.
Weather: Hoi An has a tropical climate. While the city is beautiful year-round, it is susceptible to flooding during the rainy season. Hence, it's advisable to be prepared and stay informed about the weather patterns if living closer to the riverbanks.
Cultural Immersion: From traditional dance performances at the local theaters to the bustling morning markets where locals go about their daily routines, Hoi An offers countless opportunities for genuine cultural immersion.

Teacher Stories

Sarah from the USA: After finishing her studies in liberal arts, Sarah yearned for an experience that would combine her love for travel and her passion for education. Hoi An, with its historic charm, became her choice. Teaching at a local language school, she fell in love with the town's serene landscapes and rich cultural history. On weekends, she'd cycle to An Bang Beach or indulge in local Vietnamese cuisine. The city’s lantern festivals became her monthly highlight, and she often remarked how the city felt like a blend of the past and the present.
Liam from the UK: Liam, a history buff, was immediately drawn to Hoi An's UNESCO World Heritage status. He started teaching English to high school students and soon became engrossed in the local way of life. Exploring the ancient town and understanding its historical significance became his favorite pastime. He also loved engaging with his students on projects that intertwined English learning with the history of Hoi An.
Thando from South Africa: With a background in environmental studies, Thando was keen to teach in a place close to nature. Hoi An's picturesque surroundings and commitment to sustainable tourism appealed to her. Beyond her regular classes, she started an environmental club where students learned English through activities that promoted sustainability and environmental awareness.
Jake from Australia: A surfer at heart, Jake chose Hoi An for its proximity to beautiful beaches. Teaching at a private institute, he balanced his work life with early morning surf sessions. Immersing himself in the local community, Jake often organized beach clean-ups, intertwining his love for surfing with teaching English and environmental advocacy.
Aisling from Ireland: Drawn to Hoi An for its artisanal crafts, Aisling, who had a flair for arts, started teaching young children in the town. She incorporated a lot of craft-based learning in her sessions. Outside the classroom, she took up short courses on lantern making and tailoring, often stating how Hoi An fueled both her teaching and her artistic passions.

Moving Towards Teaching English In Hoi An

Embarking on a journey to teach English in Hoi An is not just about imparting language skills. It's about immersing oneself in a culturally rich, historically profound, and naturally beautiful environment. The stories of teachers from different corners of the world echo a similar sentiment: Hoi An is not just a place to teach; it's a place to learn, to grow, and to be inspired. Its cobblestone streets, lantern-lit nights, and the serene Thu Bon River paint a picture that's both tranquil and invigorating. For those considering a teaching stint in Vietnam, Hoi An offers an experience that's unmatched – a chance to be an educator and a lifelong learner. As you move towards this journey, remember that in Hoi An, every day is a lesson, and every moment, a story.