Page 11 of My Spanish Love Affair

Although my roommates seem content to take a more relaxed approach to their travels, I need a plan. Something solid to anchor this fresh start.

Teaching English has been in the back of my mind since the moment I booked my flight. I’d spent some time researching it, making sure I ticked all of the essential criteria. It seems like a practical way to settle in Spain while also doing something meaningful; plus, it means I’ll have work experience that I can put on my CV when I return home.

After some late-night googling (and encouragement from Sofía at the hostel), I’ve booked a meeting with a large Teaching English as a Foreign Language agency. Now, as I walk toward their office, a combination of nerves and excitement twists in my stomach.

The office of the TEFL agency is nestled in a narrow street not far from Puerta del Sol. The polished brass sign on the door readsGlobal Connections, and as I push it open, the soft chime of a bell announces my arrival.

Inside, the space is bright and welcoming, with shelves full of books lining the walls and a cheerful receptionist who greets me with a warm smile.

“Olivia Bennett?” she asks, glancing at her schedule.

“Yes, that’s me.”

“Great! Please have a seat. Carlos will be with you shortly.”

I sit in a plush chair by the window, fiddling nervously with the strap of my bag. I run my fingers through my blonde hair, trying to calm my nerves.

I don’t have to wait too long before a man who looks to be in his early forties emerges from a nearby office. He has neatly combed dark hair and glasses perched on his nose, and an overall easy demeanor.

“Olivia?” he says, extending a hand. I nod. “I’m Carlos Díaz. Nice to meet you.”

“Nice to meet you too,” I reply, shaking his hand and following him into the office.

Carlos’ office is tidy, with framed certificates on the wall and a large desk stacked neatly with papers. He gestures for me to sit across from him and offers me a glass of water.

“So,” he begins, folding his hands on the desk, “you’re interested in teaching English here in Spain?”

“Yes,” I say, trying to sound confident despite the nervous flutter in my stomach. “I completed my online TEFL certification, and I’m really keen to get started.”

Carlos nods approvingly. “That’s great to hear,” he smiles. “There’s always demand for English teachers, especially from native speakers like yourself. But I have to be honest with you: Madrid is a competitive market. It’s saturated with teachers who have a lot of experience.”

“Ah.”

“Listen; if you don’t have any flexibility whatsoever, then I’m not saying it’s impossible. But I am saying that if you’re open to exploring other options - other cities - then you’ll have better luck finding a good deal.”

“Outside Madrid?” I say. “Like where?”

I’m not necessarily fixed on Madrid, per se; I just haven’t really thought about going anywhere else.

“Well,” he says, adjusting his glasses, “where would you like to go? There’s demand all over Spain, but it’s the smaller cities and towns that are often looking for teachers.”

“I guess I haven’t really thought about it,” I say with a shrug. “I just assumed I’d be here, but I’m open to moving… well, anywhere.”

“Well, for instance, we currently have a few openings in Valencia. It’s a beautiful city. Smaller than Madrid, for sure, but it has a lot to offer. Lots of culture, a more relaxed pace of life - and beaches. Many, many beaches.”

“Valencia,” I repeat, testing the name on my tongue.

“Have you heard of it?” Carlos asks.

“Not really,” I answer honestly. “I saw it as one of the flight options, but I’ve never really looked into it.”

“Well, look - there are a few openings in the city. It’s not a bad place to live. In fact, come to think of it, there’s one job in particular that might be particularly attractive to you…”

Carlos opens one of the draws to his desk and begins thumbing through the many files.

“It’s a small school. Their English teacher is going on maternity leave, so there’s an immediate vacancy. The job comes witha stable contract, and the best part is that they help with accommodations. They have an arrangement for a very affordable apartment near the school.”

Now thatdoessound good.

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