What inspired you to work for XploreAsia?
I loved the idea that I would get to help people follow their dreams. Some have been waiting for ages. Especially since Covid-19, more people are realizing that life is too short. Your time is now, and you have the power to make the change. XploreAsia gives people the chance to do just that. I love seeing people leave their comfort zone and realizing it was all worth it.
Why do you do what you do?
I do what I do because I want more people to experience the joys of travel. I believe travel opens your eyes, heart, and mind to another world. It teaches you about other cultures, as well as about yourself. I do what I do because I believe everyone should embrace change and seek new challenges. This is the only way we grow.
Tsunoshima Bridge, Yamaguchi, Japan
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part is when I have my catch up calls with teachers. It's so rewarding! To think that 6 months ago they were sitting in their home office back in their parent's house in a ZOOM call with me talking about how they'd love to see the world. Then, a few months later, they are chatting to me from their new apartments in Thailand, Vietnam, or South Korea. It's amazing.
What are some current projects you are working on?
These days, I'm reaching out to current teachers in the field to get raw footage of their everyday routing. I'll be posting these to show future teachers what a day in the life looks like in various countries. Another thing is updating all our social media profiles. A lot has changed and XploreAsia keeps expanding. It's hard to keep up.
What advice would you tell your pre-travel self?
This is a REALLY tough one. I try not to have regrets, but I would probably tell myself not to wait for others to make plans for me. I used to be a bit of a follower. I'd always just listen and wait for someone else to plan the big things, then just jump on the bandwagon.
I'd always say, "I want to go to the Philippines." or "I want to go to Cambodia." But because no one planned it, I never went. It never occurred to me to just book the ticket and go! In the end, I went to both alone. It was so liberating. Just buy that ticket! With or without an army.
Why should someone choose XploreAsia over competitors?
That's an easy one. XploreAsia is such a good investment. I don't think there is any other company that offers in-country accreditation, personalized visa support, placement, regular check-ins and organized meet-ups. XploreAsia offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to change your life and live the life you've always wanted.
Paris, France (2022)
What makes XploreAsia easy to market to potential participants?
What makes us easy to market is the fact that every single one of our staff genuinely cares about the teachers coming in. They all give 200% to their job and never hesitate to go the extra mile. It's very easy to promote a company where the people you work with are authentic and care about what they do.
What is your organization's mission and how do you continue to work toward it?
XploreAsia's mission is not only to encourage people to travel abroad, but also to educate local communities in Asia. We strive to motivate young learners in Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar, South Korea, and Japan and show them that their dreams are closer than they think. Our goal is to bridge the gap between cultures and work harmoniously together.
What do you hope participants take away from your programs?
I hope participants gain the confidence to be themselves and teach English using their own individual strengths. I hope our program gives participants a sense of belonging. XploreAsia is all about connecting people and helping build networks. I have no doubt that they will leave feeling fulfilled and part of an ever-growing family.
How do you help support participants?
I help participants by answering all their questions before even signing up. I explain the process, ease their minds when it comes to logistics, then get them registered. If they have any concerns during the sign up process, I'm just an e-mail away. I also update the social media - this is a great way for new teachers to get a sneak peek into what current intakes are doing.
Thailand with my Brother
Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?
One of my favorite comedians, Trevor Noah said "Travel is the antidote to ignorance." This is so true. I believe that travel takes us out of our comfort zone and inspires us to see, taste, and try new things. Yes, it comes with challenges, but it also allows us to engage with different people, to embrace adventures and to have new, meaningful experiences.
Travel exposes us to different cultures and teaches us about humanity. It enriches the mind and educates us far beyond any textbook or travel guide. It teaches you about the world as well as yourself.
What advice do you have for individuals thinking about going abroad?
My advice would be to stop procrastinating and go for it. Too many people say, "One day," but that day never comes. It never seems like the right time. I encourage people to have their moment now and leave their comfort zone, even if it is just for 6 months. Experience something new and do it for yourself.
Akihabara, Tokyo, Japan
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel is when travel enriches your life in one way or another. This is usually achieved by learning new things about the world and yourself. Meaningful travel leaves you feeling fulfilled.
It allows you to grow and deepens your understanding of how other cultures see the world. It allows you to develop a stronger connection with yourself as well as others. Meaningful travel allows travelers to visit destinations and support local people and businesses in honest work while immersing themselves.
What does ethical global engagement mean to you?
Ethical Global Engagement refers to one's need to experience the world from all angles. While doing so, we soon understand the reality of global inequality. Understanding inequality should ignite the urge to learn about the social and political ties that connect us to each other - even across oceans.
How is your company handling Covid protocols? What should participants know about your Covid readiness? How are you assisting participants with navigating the new travel landscape?
As of now, 90% of our programs are up and running again as usual. While most of our schools require teachers to be fully vaccinated, they no longer need to take a PRC test when entering the country. XploreAsia has done their best to keep participants up to date with the latest Covid updates and protocols.
