Disco de Gloria Estefan: “Abriendo Puertas”

I read this book on the recommendation of a friend who lived abroad. Unfortunately, it did not apply in most cases to the 20 countries in which I traveled and tried to find work, not only because I'm American and this book is aimed at UK natives, but because of the brevity of info offered.

Americans and Canadians have a more difficult time finding work simply because of EU citizenship requirements, though it is also true that English taught with an American accent is more desirable. The latter, however, does not mean Americans will be better paid or even employed.

Many times, schools fill positions with natives who studied English abroad, even if their command of the language is quite poor. British natives are often preferred over Canadians or Americans simply because they have no work or residence permit issues if you're in the EU. Americans, at best, can find tutoring jobs through placing an ad in local newspapers (and it helps to write the ad in the local language to attract students) and will not be paid as well...in fact, half the rate in many cases of a native speaking substandard English.

In the majority of cases, some previous teaching experience, credentials and certificates are required in order to be considered for a position. In addition, some knowledge of the local language is extremely useful, often required. This book does not stress this. Standards have changed in the world, and those wishing to find a job simply because they know how to speak English is not enough. Buying and reading this book, however helpful it is in small ways, is also not enough.

As with anything, there are exceptions to the rule. My best friend from California was placed in Poland, well-paid and provided housing for 2 years without any experience, certification or previous interview; last year he taught in Turkey during his vacation under nearly the same conditions. Another woman who contacted me for advice found a job in Romania quite easily and is having a great time. Sometimes it's about connections, sometimes about luck.

If you're American, Teaching English Overseas by Jeff Mohamed is more relevant. Then, take a TEFL course, get a copy of Living Abroad Magazine, check the availability of jobs in local papers of the country(ies) you choose and have an agency place you keeping your options flexible to the many beautiful countries worldwide (South America, Asia, Africa, Eastern Europe). That's more practical and realistic.

I have an earlier edition--the third edition, published in 1997. I have read it cover to cover several times in preparation for my first teaching assignment abroad. It is very well-organized, starting with information on TEFL training courses all over the world, then providing information on how to prepare for your trip--how to get through international paperwork, suggestions on what to pack and which grammar books to try, tips on how to mentally prepare yourself, and finally it presents an overview of the demand for English teachers and the availability and quality of jobs in dozens of countries. Not only informative and well-organized, but also well-written; it is a delight to read.

It's amazing what happens when artists (re-)connect with things that are really valuable and meaningful to them. With "Mi Tierra" Gloria got back to the Cuban side of her Hispanic heritage and produced a milestone album. With "Abriendo Puertas" she mines the huge wealth of Colombian music to produce a gem.

Open-minded Estefan fans are in for a treat. The songs are based on different local styles, as the liner notes usefully explain. There's an amazing variety of rhythms - all irresistible. The melodies are catchy and Gloria delivers them with her customary warmth and assurance.

You don't need to understand the words in Spanish to enjoy this joyful music, but it's a real bonus if you do. It's notionally a seasonal album but unlike so many this one goes beyond the cliched trappings (chestnuts roasting, jingle bells etc.) and really connects with what the festive season is really be about - reconciliation, new beginnings, generosity, shared memories and good times together.

"Abriendo Puertas" is perfect for any day of the year when body and soul need a little refreshment. GLORIOUS!!

Abriendo Puertas is the second of Gloria's three Spanish CDs, but the last I became familiar with. At first I was disappointed as it seemed less "serious" and "cutting edge" than Mi Tierra or Alma Caribena, but increased familiarity has revealed its considerable charms.

This is a holiday (Christmas and New Years) related album, but not really a Christmas album as such. All the songs are based on Latin dance rhythms and represent the kind of high spirited festival music that is popular at that time of year. This is as much composer/arranger/instrumentalist Kike Santander's album as Gloria's-- he has written 10 relentlessly upbeat, wonderfully arranged songs, inventive and polished to perfection. The details of the songs are quite wonderful, and Gloria's singing is ideal for this idiom.

This is really a great album to put you in a good mood, as well as for appreciating top of the line musicanship. The Gold Star award for the songs must go to "Felicidad", which is just that, and the impossibly infectious "Tres Deseos", (try and play it just once!).

All together, Gloria Estefan's 3 Spanish CD's are a real achievement, and prove that her real talent is in her Latin heritage, and not in the rather ordinary English language albums she is more famous for.

This book has some good information, but it's like carrying a phone book, and a lot of the info is addresses. There's too much stuff here. A good guidebook for teaching overseas is 'The World is a Class'. Everything written is to the point, and it's a lot easier to carry.