Where to Teach English in 2025: 5 Best Digital Nomad Locations
In 2025, working from anywhere is no longer unusual - all you need is reliable internet and a quiet space for your video calls.
No wonder, the urge to travel and teach English abroad is becoming the first choice for many teachers. But with so many places to choose, the questions are many. One of them is: How do you choose the perfect destination? And which places are TEFL teacher-friendly?
How to Choose Your Perfect Digital Nomad Destination
It is not just about the pretty pictures you see on social media. You have to consider practical things that will affect your daily life and work:
- Cost of Living
You want to pick a place where your income covers your needs comfortably. Think about rent, food, transport, and internet bills. A lower cost of living means you can save more or enjoy a better quality of life. There are several websites that can help you compare living expenses worldwide.
- Things to Do
When you are not teaching, what would you love to explore? Maybe it is hiking, art galleries, coffee shops, or history. Choose a place where your free time can be filled with experiences you truly enjoy.
- Ease of Travel
Some places are well-connected with budget airlines, buses, and trains- making it easier (and cheaper) to travel around. Also, check if the country has a reliable transport system so you can travel the world teaching English easily.
- Weather
Think about what kind of weather helps you stay productive and happy. Some people love warm beaches. Others enjoy the cool mountain air. Do not forget to check how the seasons work in your chosen destination!
- Digital Nomad Community
Being around other digital nomads can keep you inspired and motivated. You can find co-working spaces, events, or even Facebook groups in many cities. Having a supportive community makes settling in much easier.
5 Popular Digital Nomad Destinations in 2025
Now that you know what to look for, here are five excellent places for TEFL teachers in 2025:
1. Portugal
Portugal has become a digital nomad favorite for good reasons. Imagine teaching with a view of colorful buildings climbing up hillsides, or taking breaks to walk along the Atlantic coast. Lisbon and Porto offer beautiful surroundings with cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and nearby beaches.
Portugal has invested heavily in digital infrastructure. Most cafés and public spaces offer free WiFi, and high-speed home internet is affordable. The country also has many coworking spaces designed specifically for remote workers. While not as cheap as some Asian destinations, Portugal remains more affordable than many Western European countries.
There is a high demand for business English lessons since many Portuguese companies require English for international trade. The time zone works perfectly for teaching European students and can also accommodate some Asian or American students during certain hours.
2. Greece
Greece combines ancient history with island beauty, making it an inspiring place to live and work. Athens offers living surrounded by ancient wonders like the Acropolis. For a more relaxed pace, Crete provides island living with beautiful beaches and mountain villages. Both options give you access to the Mediterranean lifestyle, with outdoor cafés, fresh food, and warm hospitality.
Greece has improved its internet infrastructure significantly in recent years. Major cities and tourist areas now offer reliable connections fast enough for video teaching. The country has also created special digital nomad hubs with dedicated workspace options. Greece continues to be one of the more affordable destinations in Europe.
Tourism is a major industry in Greece, creating demand for English skills. Many Greek students also prepare for international English exams. Teaching online from Greece puts you in a convenient time zone for European clients while enjoying a high quality of life.
3. Malta
This tiny Mediterranean island nation packs a big punch for digital nomads seeking sunshine and English-speaking surroundings. Malta offers a unique blend of cultures, with influences from Italy, North Africa, and its British colonial past. The island features stunning blue waters, historic fortresses, and charming fishing villages. Despite its small size, Malta has distinct areas ranging from busy urban centers to quieter rural spots.
As a tech-forward nation, Malta boasts excellent internet infrastructure. The country has embraced digital innovation and offers multiple coworking spaces and digital nomad-friendly cafés. While more expensive than some Mediterranean options, Malta remains reasonable by European standards.
English is an official language in Malta alongside Maltese, making daily life easy for English speakers. This bilingual environment means you will feel at home quickly while still enjoying a different culture. The strong tourist economy also creates opportunities for in-person teaching to supplement your online work.
4. Colombia
Once known for its troubled past, Medellín in Colombia has transformed into a digital nomad hotspot with perfect weather and warm culture. Nicknamed the 'City of Eternal Spring,' Medellín offers comfortable temperatures year-round. The city sits in a valley surrounded by green mountains. Modern infrastructure blends with Colombian culture, creating a vibrant living experience with parks, art spaces, and outdoor cafés.
Colombia has invested heavily in becoming a tech hub. Medellín offers fast internet connections and numerous coworking spaces. The city even has a special innovation district called Ruta N that attracts digital professionals from around the world.
English skills are highly valued in Colombia's growing economy. Many local businesses and individuals seek English tutoring. The time zone works well for teaching North American students, and the low cost of living means you can work fewer hours while maintaining a good lifestyle.
5. South Africa
At Africa's southern tip, Cape Town offers dramatic landscapes and a unique cultural mix. Few cities in the world can match Cape Town's natural beauty. Table Mountain creates a stunning backdrop to a city where urban life meets ocean views and wine country. The area offers diverse neighborhoods, from beachside communities to historic districts filled with colorful buildings.
Major cities like Cape Town offer reliable connections and a growing number of coworking spaces. The creative scene attracts digital professionals from various fields. While prices have risen in recent years, South Africa remains affordable compared to Western countries.
English is one of South Africa's eleven official languages and is widely spoken in business and education. The time zone works well for teaching European students in the evening and Asian students in the morning. This flexibility helps you create a balanced schedule.
Bottom Line
Teaching and traveling with TEFL certification brings you closer to some of the most beautiful, affordable, and exciting places on the planet. Each destination offers a mix of advantages, from affordable living to beautiful surroundings to convenient time zones. By considering the factors we have discussed and researching your top choices carefully, you can find the perfect base for your digital nomad journey.
