Teaching English abroad is an excellent method to save money while exploring new cultures. A few years ago, I connected with Kaleena Quarles via Couchsurfing.com when I relocated to California. She graciously hosted me until I secured my own place. A few months later, she left for Korea to teach English, and I've been following her exciting journey ever since. Kaleena shares her insights on teaching in Korea and how she saved for her current round-the-world trip!
Name: Kaleena Quarles
Age: 29
Hometown: Ukiah, California
Country count: 31
Blog/Website: kaleenaskaleidoscope.com
1. What sparked your interest in travel?
I was fortunate to grow up in a family that cherished vacations. We visited places like Hawaii and the Caribbean, and even spent a month exploring Europe. My first extensive backpacking experience happened at 22 when I spent three months in South America. From then on, travel became my obsession; I constantly sought ways to save and fit in more adventures.
Kaleena taught English in both Thailand and Korea to finance her RTW journey. (Photography by Kaleena Quarles)
2. Why did you choose to teach English in Korea? What was your experience like?
Teaching English in Korea was a dream come true; I wanted to live abroad and find a job that enabled me to save significantly in a short period. I managed to save $28,000 in two years while still enjoying vacations and indulging in amazing food. My time in Korea had its ups and downs; I faced a tough job and cultural challenges, but I also discovered things I loved, especially the food, and have no regrets.
For anyone considering teaching English in Korea, I say go for it! Just be sure to research the school beforehand. Speak with current employees, inquire about vacation and salary, and trust your instincts before signing a contract. Some academies are fantastic, but others may take advantage of foreign teachers. You can check out Dave's ESL for job openings or join relevant Facebook groups for recommendations.
3. What's your latest adventure?
After leaving Korea in February, I embarked on a solo round-the-world trip. After visiting the U.S., I traveled through Southeast Asia, where I volunteered with elephants, trained in Muay Thai, taught English, and earned my Advanced Scuba certification while exploring shipwrecks. My journey took me to Australia and New Zealand, where I cuddled koalas and worked on a farm, all while soaking in stunning views. Currently, I'm residing in New Zealand for a couple of months before continuing my travels, with plans to visit at least three more continents this year!
4. How do you finance your adventures?
I saved diligently during my two years in Korea, ending up with around $20,000 after expenses for my round-the-world trip. While traveling, I extended my budget by volunteering for accommodations, taking short-term teaching and farm jobs, and staying with friends I met along the way. I spent only two nights in paid accommodations during my three weeks in Australia thanks to the kindness of friends!
Kaleena paused in Bali, Indonesia, as part of her ongoing round-the-world adventure. (Photo by Kaleena Quarles.)
5. What stands out as a travel highlight for you?
My time in Thailand was a highlight from last year. I had the chance to teach English to some fantastic high school students, which deepened my understanding of Thai culture. I also volunteered at an elephant rehabilitation park and trained in Muay Thai in the northern jungles. It was a remarkable and unforgettable experience!
6. What was your biggest challenge while traveling, and how did you handle it?
Choosing just one challenge is tough… Was it the food poisoning that felt like a scene from a horror movie? The relentless sand fly bites that left me looking like a monster? The jellyfish stings that nearly shut my eyes? Or the foot infection that almost cost me my leg? Traveling can be full of surprises, but the best way to cope is with humor. Sometimes, laughter is the best medicine, and it always makes for a good story!
7. What advice do you have for aspiring travelers? How can they overcome fear?
Initially, when I met other female solo travelers, I thought they were brave to travel alone. I didn't jump into solo travel right away; I started with smaller trips with friends and gradually built up to larger ones. My advice is to begin with what feels comfortable and slowly push your boundaries. It's all part of the learning journey, but the key is to just take that leap!
Kaleena enjoyed a safari in the Namibia Desert before heading to Greece for volunteer work. (Photo by Kaleena Quarles)
8. What's a common myth about solo travel?
Many believe that traveling alone is unsafe, lonely, or more challenging than traveling with someone, but I can assure you that none of that is true! Always take precautions while traveling, whether alone or with others. Making friends on the road is incredibly simple, as it often makes you more approachable and sparks curiosity from others. Plus, solo travel means you can create your own itinerary without compromise. Feel like sleeping in and lounging by the pool all day? Go for it!
9. What are three essentials you always pack?
- Swimsuit: I'm a water enthusiast and always hope for swimming opportunities or at least access to a hot tub!
- Camera: I never leave without a way to capture my adventures, whether it's my DSLR, GoPro, or iPhone.
- Sunblock: I want to protect my skin from aging and sun damage.
10. What's next on your travel itinerary?
I'm off to Africa! With no plans and a one-way ticket to Cape Town, South Africa, it's bound to be an incredible adventure! Follow Kaleena's journey at kaleenaskaleidoscope.com!
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Interested in teaching English abroad?
For information on teaching English in Korea and other countries, check out my post about working abroad!
Curious about the REAL cost of long-term travel?
Explore the detailed breakdown of expenses from my seven-month Latin America trip HERE!
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COMING UP:
Exploring Peru's Sacred Valley
Summer is peak travel time for Machu Picchu and Peru. Next week, I'll share a comprehensive guide, including logistics, for five must-visit spots in the beautiful Sacred Valley. Take your time and enjoy the area before rushing to Machu Picchu!
Peru's Sacred Valley: Inca ruins of Sacsaywamán (left) and Salinas Salt Pools (right)
TRAVEL TUESDAY INTERVIEW:
A Family of Four's Year-Long Journey
In the next Travel Tuesday Interview, I chat with Cath McGuinness about how her family spent almost a year traveling around the globe! Sign up below for more inspiring interviews!
