International Schools: Time off
Holidays
International school schedules generally follow the Western education
system, with school in session Monday through Friday, approximately
180 days a year and summers off. That said, international schools
often have longer holidays during the school year and a shorter
summer break, allowing for a more well-rounded vacation plan! Most
schools have a week off in autumn break, three weeks off at Christmas,
a week off in the winter (February time frame), another week off
during spring, and then two months off for summer. During school holidays teachers usually use their
excess income to explore neighboring cities and countries, often
together. ESL schools either go year round, with periodic breaks throughout the year, or they follow a summer-off schedule similar to international schools.
Weekends
Teachers abroad often use their weekends to relax, travel around the
country, or explore their local area. Inside a teacher's host city,
a typical weekend could include many of the same activities available
in Western countries. For movie lovers, larger cities probably have
English speaking theaters, while in smaller cities people often
gather at someone's home for a movie night. Parties and game nights
are also popular, as is shopping for unique local treasures.
For other social activities, most cities have many different clubs
teachers can join. You can find an American or International Women's Association
in many countries, and this organization hosts cultural and charitable events
for female expatriates living in the city. For a more laid back
group, the Hash
House Harriers is a running/social group in which many expats
participate in most major cities around the world, even in English speaking countries. Check them out, but leave your inhibitions at home!
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