5 Tips for English Teachers Adjusting to Life in Taipei

 5 Tips for English Teachers Adjusting to Life in Taipei

Taipei, the bustling capital city of Taiwan, is a popular destination for English teachers looking to broaden their horizons and gain international teaching experience. While Taipei is known for being Western-friendly, adjusting to life in a new country can be challenging. As an experienced English teacher who has worked in Taipei and other cities in Taiwan, I have put together a list of five tips to help English teachers adjust to life in Taipei.

  1. Be Independent:

    One of the biggest challenges of living in Taipei is getting used to people not helping you. Taiwanese people in Taipei are known to be somewhat stoic and reserved, even in situations where you might expect someone to offer assistance. As an English teacher, it's essential to be more independent and not rely on others for help. Take the time to learn the language and navigate your way around the city on your own.


  2. Have a Purpose: 

    Taipei is a fantastic city with lots to see and do, but it's also easy to get caught up in aimlessly wandering around the city without any real purpose. It's crucial to have a focused idea of what you want to do and where you want to go. Take the time to explore the city, but make sure you have a goal in mind.




  3. Find Like-Minded People: 

    It's essential to find people who share your goals and aspirations. As an English teacher, you'll spend a lot of time at work, so it's crucial to find someone who can listen to your problems and offer support. Find someone who has the same goals as you and become running buddies to accomplish what you need to do while you're in Taipei.


  4. Don't Let Stares Bother you

    Foreigners who teach English in Taiwan might find themselves getting stared at by locals, especially in areas where there aren't many foreigners. But it's important to remember that this is not necessarily an act of hostility or rudeness. Taiwanese people are generally very friendly and curious about other cultures, and seeing a foreigner in their midst can be a novelty. So if you're a foreigner teaching English in Taiwan, don't let the stares get to you. Instead, embrace them as a sign of interest and curiosity, and use them as an opportunity to connect with the local community and learn more about Taiwanese culture.

  1. Take Time for Yourself - Teaching English in Taipei can be a demanding job, and it's easy to get caught up in work and forget to take care of yourself. It's crucial to have some downtime and do something that makes you happy.

Whether it's hiking in the mountains, visiting a hot spring, or trying out a new restaurant, taking a break from work can help you recharge and avoid burnout. Taipei can be overwhelming, but there are plenty of relaxing and enjoyable activities that you can do to unwind and clear your mind.

In conclusion, moving to a new city can be challenging, but with the right mindset and a few adjustments, you can make Taipei your new home. As an English teacher, it's essential to be independent, have a clear goal, find like-minded people, and take time for yourself. These tips can help you not only adjust to life in Taipei but also thrive in this vibrant and exciting city.

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