Why is there a demand for English teachers? 
There remains an enormous demand to learn English in Hong Kong. This is the case even though Cantonese is now the language of instruction in state schools instead of English. Demand exists throughout the private and state sectors and there are also flourishing freelance opportunities. 

How do I go about getting a job? Securing your first job is more difficult than it once was due to competition. However, once the bureaucratic process has been satisfied, there are ample teaching opportunities in this vibrant, colourful location. Although it is more difficult to secure a position here than previously, generally if you are looking for teaching work you will not have a problem. In addition to government and private schools, there are literally hundreds of small learning centres which provide English tuition through native speakers. These are your best bet if you have little or no experience and want a job. These numerous ‘English clubs’ also have large, more informal conversation type classes. Alternative sources of employment can be found via the Yellow Pages and once established, freelance opportunities are abundant within the business sector.  The NET (Native English Teacher) scheme run by the Hong Government is a great way to get employed, and the salaries and benefits are very generous, ensuring it is extremely popular.

Do I need to learn/speak the language? It is not essential to speak the language.

Where do EFL teachers live? The kind of language school described here does not offer accommodation to its teachers but NETs recruiter through the government get a generous housing allowance. Accommodation in the crowded heart of Hong Kong is astronomically expensive, unless you are prepared to stay in a hostel. Good accommodation is available more cheaply on the outlying islands such as Lamma and Lantau. Here it is possible to find pleasant flats or even houses for about £400 a month.

What is the food like? Dim sum (little steamed stuffed dumplings) is a speciality in Hong Kong and you should try some during your stay. You can try dim sum anywhere, but Hong Kong City Hall Restaurant is particularly charming, as the food is still served the traditional way on carts. Another style of Cantonese dining can be found at outdoor cooked-food stalls. These aromatic eating places serve some of the simplest and best seafood, noodle and rice dishes, typically in an alfresco atmosphere. Freshness is the keyword in Cantonese cuisine.

What will I do in the evenings, on days off or on my holidays? The Man Mo Temple is one of the most important in Hong Kong and is located near Hollywood Road. The iconic Star Ferry is one of the most popular attractions for Hong Kong tourists, and excellent harbour views can be enjoyed between Tsim Tsa Tsui and Wan Chai Ferry Pier next to the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. It even has its own Disney Amusement park. You can enjoy an exhibition in complete darkness, that has already spanned 26 countries, and over 150 cities - with over 6 million visitors and counting. You will have a chance to experience Hong Kong's unseen attractions while being led by one of the visually impaired guides. Rely on your non-visual senses and discover 5 everyday environments common to Hong Kong. Ngong Ping 360 is a 25-minute, 5.7 kilometer cable car ride from Tung Chung that takes you up to the Giant Buddha. 

Safe? Hong Kong is a safe city, serious crimes are not common. There are pickpockets but it's not a real concern even in crowded places, so as long as you take general precautions you shouldn't experience any problems.

How much does it cost to travel from the UK? Flights from around £480.

When is the best time to travel for English teaching jobs? Recruitment for teachers in Hong Kong takes place year round with the exception of Chinese New Year (January/February). The best time to look for work or to apply for positions from the UK is May/June as the summer is a very busy time for learning centres when there is no school – hence you’ll find a large increase in the demand for native speakers.

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