TravelGrad

My experience moving to Japan with the support of TravelGrad and their partner, Xplore Asia, has been mostly positive. They provided assistance with the application process for my teaching position and arranged my housing, which helped make the transition smoother. They were responsive to questions, including practical matters like setting up utilities upon my arrival. When I was exploring the idea of moving to Japan, TravelGrad was friendly and informative during initial phone calls, offering advice on choosing a country and teaching options. While their support was helpful, there were occasional moments where more detailed guidance would have been appreciated, particularly regarding cultural or professional expectations in Japan. These came naturally once I had arrived, so it wasn’t a large problem. Overall, I feel fortunate with my placement and have built strong friendships, which have significantly enriched my experience. Living here has sparked a newfound appreciation for 御持て成し (omotenashi), the Japanese concept of hospitality and mindfulness. That said, the adjustment has been a whirlwind, and it’s worth noting that personal growth and lifestyle changes come as much from adapting to a new environment as they do from external support. There’s only so much that can be expected, but with that said, TravelGrad gets you where you want to go.

Photos

I cannot speak highly enough about TravelGrad. They have made what is usually a very daunting and complicated process, seamless. Any query or doubt that I had prior to coming to China was answered, and the staff went above and beyond to ensure there was no unnecessary panic or stress before making what has been one of the most life-changing decisions I've made to date and I couldn't be more grateful to them for that. The team at TravelGrad are like no other. What they offer is unique in that they offer 24/7 support and guidance that doesn't stop when you set foot off the plane. The team regularly check in to ensure of your wellbeing and go out of their way to help where possible. This alone has made settling in a whole lot easier. TravelGrad is not simply a company, but has become family out here in China. The people I have met through TravelGrad have quickly become some of my closest friends and to have that comfort so far from home has been invaluable. Although I have only been here for a little over 4 months, what I have experienced within such a short period of time has been incredible. I can't wait to discover what's next, the opportunities are endless and it's all thanks to TravelGrad for making it possible. Personally I believe, when it comes to teaching abroad, you needn't look further than TravelGrad.

I truly value the support from TravelGrad. They’ve consistently been accessible and responsive. Whether it was navigating challenges during our first month as new teachers or addressing unexpected issues, their availability and assistance have made the entire travel experience so much smoother. It’s also very comforting to know they’re just a text away for any concerns or issues that we may have.

I have no bad words to say about TravelGrad! They are the most helpful and caring agents you could ask for. They made my experience with the China teaching Experience so easy and stress-free! It’s my second year with TravelGrad and I would always recommend them for anyone wanting to teach abroad. You feel very looked after, which is the best thing you could ask for, in the very daunting process of moving countries.

I always knew I wanted to teach abroad but didn’t have the faintest clue how to start. I was introduced to travel grad through a friend and their website was very easy to understand so I applied then got a phone interview from Andrew who told me more about the Thailand placement and I decided that was the best one for me as I didn’t want a long commitment! Andrew was always on hand to answer any questions and concerns and made the whole process a lot easier! I’m loving teaching in Thailand so much I’ve even extended for a second semester! If you want to teach abroad but don’t know where to start then start with travelgrad!!

Since the beginning Travelgrad have been so supportive, Andrew did everything to ensure that I arrived in China smoothly and on time. It's been a blast since I arrived and I can safely say I will be here for longer than originally planned. After arriving in China, contact with Travelgrad didn't end either. Andrew has been in touch multiple time to ensure that everything is going well since getting to China.

Travel Grad have helped me journey to the other side of the world and helped me achieve exactly what I wanted. Even after the 2020 pandemic struck and caused a delay in my application , Travel Grad continued to support me throughout and ensured I would be able to travel when it was safe and when it worked best for me. I never felt rushed in my application and always felt like so could tell Travel Grad any issues I had. They were always understanding, patient, and kind throughout my entire application. They are an excellent team and I’m very grateful for their help.

Photos

Overall experience has been outstanding so far and I do not regret the decision to move abroad one bit. TravelgradUK definitely helped me with the process and getting everything set up before moving out to China It all still seems pretty surreal but so far, the job has been great, the location is amazing and the people I have met out here are so nice and friendly Everyone came alone but what made the process easier was that we all went and applied via TravelGrad and before arrival, we were all added into sociable group chats on WhatsApp where we could interact and get to know each other beforehand This for sure made the move a lot easier. 10/10 recommend TravelGrad for anyone looking at making a move to teach abroad!

I had an exceptional experience with Travelgrad while pursuing my dream of teaching abroad in China. Their dedicated team went above and beyond to ensure a smooth process. From the initial inquiry to the moment I landed in China, Travelgrad provided unwavering support. Their knowledgeable staff guided me through the entire process, offering valuable insights into visa requirements, cultural nuances, and logistical details. Their attention to detail eased any concerns I had about moving to a new country. What sets Travelgrad apart is their personalised approach. They took the time to understand my needs and concerns. The assistance in securing a teaching position was particularly impressive. They connected me with their reputable Chinese counterparts. Throughout my adventure, Travelgrad remained a reliable companion. Their commitment was evident in the prompt responses to my queries and proactive communication. The pre-departure orientation they provided proved invaluable, preparing me for the cultural transition and making me feel more confident about the exciting journey ahead. Thanks to Travelgrad, my experience teaching in China surpassed my expectations. I wholeheartedly recommend this travel company to anyone seeking not only a company that facilitates the logistics but also invests in the personal and professional growth of their aspiring teachers.

I went to South Korea in 2022-23 and am currently in China, teaching English. I had no previous experience with teaching until moving across the world and going for it. Lots of my experiences haven't been part of any plan, just little decisions one after the other. I'm enjoying my life, possibilities and opportunities as well as now having the luxury of time to figure out what I want to do. From late nights turning into early mornings partying, to tasting new and delicious foods, learning languages and cultures, meeting new people from all over the world. Heartwarmth and heartbreak, bittersweetness. Moving abroad makes me feel like I'm really alive and living, rather than being a zombie in the same little village I've always known in the uk. I'm very grateful for travel grad for making these precious experiences and memories possible.

TravelGrad and Andrew in particular were with you right from the start and contactable literally 24/7 for any questions (I don’t think the guy sleeps). They were particularly helpful with the visa application process which was broken down into steps that were easy to follow and made a world of difference taking the stress out of applying and knowing you had everything sorted for when you touch down.

At first, I was hesistant about the concept of teaching abroad, but after talking to the staff at TravelGrad and going through my options, I knew I had to take the opportunity. They were extremely helpful throughout the whole process, and were able to answer any questions I had or aid with any issues I had.

After a solid semester abroad I knew I wasn’t wanting to settle or stay in the UK for much longer than I needed to post graduation, I spoke to the guys at Travel Grad and they were incredibly helpful and understanding. Throughout the whole process Andrew was so insightful and covered literally everything I possibly could’ve needed to know about working abroad. I was originally wanting to go to Japan however he convinced me Thailand was the place for me. Could not thank Andrew and the others at travel grad for the experience I’ve had, and am incredibly sad at the thought of returning back to the UK. Couldn’t recommend travel grad enough to any future grads who are unsure about what they want to do/need time to think or get out of the UK - they have been so supportive and friendly, always there through the good and bad moments! Thank you guys!

Photos

I'm a recent graduate currently teaching English in China (Zhejiang, Ningbo). I found out about the opportunity to teach abroad through a job posting on a graduate jobs website and had a conversation on the phone with Andrew of TravelGrad just two days after I had applied. During the preparation process, TravelGrad offered comprehensive guidance through every step. Whether it was notifying me of certain deadlines, simplifying the visa application process, offering general advice etc. TravelGrad was always there to help. Andrew of TravelGrad was in touch with me every single week during the process and was available to speak to me every single day of the week. TravelGrad also created a group where applicants were able to talk to each other before they landed in China. Overall, I'd describe my experience with TravelGrad as overwhelmingly positive and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend them to anyone looking to teach abroad.

Photos

TravelGrad/Andrew was such a help throughout the whole process and made it so achievable for me to teach abroad, which has always been a dream of mine. He was helpful and responded quickly. I was happy that I was able to meet a ton of other teachers at orientation. It helped make the entire experience less daunting knowing I wouldn't be alone. I also go to make some great friends! It has been so fun teaching Thai students and learning more about Thai culture. One of my favorite parts has been eating out nearly every night because of how cheap it is. The food is amazing here! I would recommend TravelGrad to anyone interested in teaching abroad but doesn't want to do it alone. Thailand is also a great choice because the people here are so friendly and welcoming.

I was hesitant to do this whole experience, at first. I was nervous about completely uplifting my life and moving halfway around the world to a place I knew little about. What was comforting to know, was having a supportive company to help and be there. TravelGrad put me in contact with their partner company in China and they helped with everything to get started. They helped me get a school, find an apartment, and helped with all the visa applications and paperwork once in China as well. Once the school year started, they were there with training and guidance to make the experience and job as good as can be. I have learned a lot about myself through this experience. It’s a scary thing but worth it. The kids make it worth it.

During the preparation process, TravelGrad offered guidance along every step of the way. Whether it was reminding me of deadlines, offering general advice, simplifying the visa application process, etc. TravelGrad was always there. Andrew of TravelGrad in touch with me every single week during the application process and was available for contact every single day of the week. TravelGrad also created a group where applicants were able to get to know each other before they landed in China. Overall, I'd describe my experience with TravelGrad as overwhelmingly positive and wouldn't hesitate to recommend them to anyone looking to teach abroad!

I successfully arrived in Shenzhen in October 2022 with Travelgrad. At the time China had strict Covid entry regulations but Travelgrad were very helpful and supportive, as well as realistic about the situation. They kept in regular contact and made the whole process as straightforward as possible. Although it wasn’t easy, I felt very well informed and supported throughout it all. Travelgrad also made sure I was put in contact with other teachers arriving in Shenzhen at the same time so I have settled in well. I am glad I went to Shenzhen with Travelgrad and would recommend them. Pros & Cons: Great Communication, Straightforward process. Cons: None

The travelgrad program helped me go to and teach in China. They were super helpful throughout the entire process, answering any and all question, no matter how silly they seemed. They made the whole process super easy, and continued their support the whole time whilst I was in China. They took on board exactly whereabouts in China I wanted to live in, and what age groups I wanted to teach, and set me up with the perfect school. And when I wanted to move to the other side of the country for a year, they were super accommodating and helped find a great school for me to move to. I also met some of my closest friends through this program. Everyone you meet is so nice and I've definitely made some lifelong friends through this program. I'm so appreciative to travelgrad, and everyone who was there for me both before and during my time in China. Pros & Cons: Pros: Easy process, Super helpful throughout, Made great, lifelong friends. Cons: None

Travelgrad work tirelessly around the clock to make sure you feel safe, supported and comfortable. The team alleviates all stress allowing you to sit back and enjoy the travelling experience. They provide information as well as opportunities to continue your travels around the globe. When you are with travel grad you feel as if you have been adopted into a new family, where you meet all the like minded outgoing people you have been searching for. I cannot reccomend and thank this company enough !!! Pros and Cons: Pros: Support, Meeting people, Stress free. Cons: Nothing

Photos