ESL Jobs Forum

[teacher]

I am a Canadian female looking into teaching positions in Egypt. I am hoping someone can provide me with personal feedback on being an expatriate living in Egypt, specifically being a female.
Thanks for any info you can provide me.

[IWearHighWaters]

Egypt sounds interesting but must be hotter than a mother scratcher down there. Kinda dangerous to I imagine. I'd be interested to hear from others teaching there as well.

Fran

[Chanci]

Hi Ladies

Well firstly, Cairo is a culture shock - thats the reality end of story. If u dont know anyone who speaks Arabic or if u dont speak Arabic u are going to find yourselves in a somewhat difficult situation. On the other hand u can try and set your boundaries, dont get stressed out (which will happen), dont drive unless you understand a circle is a square and you have witnessed and been subjected to the Cairo Kiss (thats just drive, hit the car in front and carry on) every vehicle has a few bumps, you can stay in the best area overlooking the Nile and ppl will still throw their trash on the stairs. Teaching is a challenge and only the strong survive. I taught in Cairo for three years, and Sharm El Sheik for 2. School terms are 9 months and u get 3 months holidays, I was lucky, I taught the King of Saudi Arabia's children for 3 full months in Cairo. Glad I tried, conquered but NO not for me. If you go with someone it will definately be much easier. By the way, I visited the Pyramids 8 times, not by choice - even the employees said to me "Ms, please u come only to the Pyramids?" Enjoy and if I can help in any other way let me know. Take Care.
Regards
Chantal
PS Hot is an understatement, imagine wearing 6 winter coats, boots and the sun beating down - now u have it!

[walterharris]

Hi! I am thinking about coming to Egypt to teach. Are there any teachers in Egypt who could pass some helpful advice on to me? Right now I am teaching in China.

Thanks