7 Unexpected Experiences While Teaching English in Spain

Teaching English abroad is more than a career move — it’s a complete life upgrade. It challenges you, surprises you, and changes the way you see the world (and yourself).

No TEFL course, YouTube video, or travel blog can prepare you for everything — but here are 7 unexpected experiences while teaching abroad in Spain that you’re almost guaranteed to encounter (and love).

1. You’ll Start Seeing “Normal” Differently

We all grow up thinking the way our culture does things is just…normal. But once you live abroad, you quickly realize “normal” is completely relative.

This mindset shift — also called cultural relativism — happens naturally when you adapt to different customs, values, and daily routines. Suddenly, eating dinner at 10 p.m., greeting strangers with two kisses, or closing shops for a midday siesta feels totally natural.

💡 Pro Tip: Embrace these differences instead of comparing them to home — you’ll adapt faster and enjoy the experience more.

🔗 Related Read: Cultural Differences Living in Spain vs. the U.S.

2. You Might Meet Your Person (or Your People)

The expat community is a magnet for adventurous, like-minded people — the kind who understand the thrill (and occasional chaos) of living abroad.

Some teachers meet lifelong friends in their programs. Others meet partners they end up building a life with (take our founder, Harrison for example). Even casual friendships often feel deeper because you’re navigating a new culture together.

💡 Pro Tip: Say yes to meetups, day trips, and random invites. Your future travel buddy (or soulmate) might be in your next group WhatsApp.

3. Everyday Things Become Unexpected Adventures

At first, the “small stuff” will feel strange — like paying for groceries in coins, hanging your laundry instead of using a dryer, or telling time in 24-hour format. You might even miss certain comforts from home — like quick Target runs.

But here’s the twist: after a few months, these quirks stop feeling foreign. They become part your rhythm. And when you return home? You might find yourself reaching for the bidet or wondering why the café doesn’t serve coffee at 9pm.

💡 Pro Tip: Notice which small changes you actually love. Some expats keep these habits for life.

🔗 Related Read: Cultural Similarities Between Spain and the U.S.

4. Limited Teaching Resources

While Spain’s public schools are generally well-equipped, some teachers — especially outside major cities — find themselves improvising more than expected. The printer might be broken, the whiteboard markers dead, or the classroom freezing in January.

This isn’t as big a challenge in Spain (or most Western European countries) compared to teaching in the developing world, but it’s still one of those unexpected experiences while teaching abroad that will test your flexibility.

💡 Pro Tip: Keep a few no-material lesson ideas ready. Simple games like “20 Questions” or “Two Truths and a Lie” can save the day.

5. Your Priorities Will Shift (in the Best Way)

Many teachers say living abroad makes them more flexible, grateful, and intentional with their time. You start focusing on experiences over possessions. It’s a hard mindset to lose once you’ve got it.

In fact, plenty of long-term expats describe how daily life in Spain stops feeling “foreign” and starts feeling like home — where slower rhythms and community focused living become second nature.

6. You’ll Always Be a Little “Outside” — and That’s Okay

Even if you integrate well, you’ll always be a little bit of an outsider — and that’s not a bad thing.

As an expat, you get to witness life in your host country without all the social pressures locals might feel. People are often more forgiving of your cultural slip-ups, and you’re free to engage deeply without the same expectations.

💡 Pro Tip: Use your “outside” perspective to ask questions, learn, and build genuine relationships — without the pressure of trying to become fully a “local.”

7. You’ll Build More Confidence Than You Ever Expected

Living abroad means facing challenges — from navigating visa paperwork to figuring out grocery store etiquette. Each little win builds confidence you can’t gain by staying in your comfort zone.

By the time you return home (if you return at all), you’ll be the one your friends call when they’re scared to take a big leap — because you’ve already done it.

💡 Pro Tip: Remember this confidence boost when you’re struggling. Every challenge you overcome abroad is proof that you’re stronger than you think.

The Beauty of the Unexpected

Here’s the truth: the most unforgettable parts of teaching abroad are often the ones you never saw coming. These unexpected experiences while teaching abroad will challenge you, surprise you, and shape you in ways you’ll carry for life.

🚀 Let’s get you to Spain. RVF International has the resources, connections, and real talk you need to skip the chaos and start living your best expat life in Spain.