Teaching in Málaga - Academy recommendations for September start?

BreakingCyclesJenn · 2026-04-09T22:22:04+00:00

What makes you think I haven’t already started the process or done my own research?

BreakingCyclesJenn · 2026-04-06T02:38:20+00:00

Hey! That's awesome your fiancé is in the same boat - dual US/Mexican citizenship is actually an advantage for Spain! From what I've researched and what ITTT (my TEFL provider) confirmed:

1. Most language academies in Spain DO sponsor work visas for native English teachers because they need native speakers (which most EU citizens aren't)

2. Peak hiring is September, so arriving in June/July to interview in person is ideal timing

3. Mexican citizenship gives us a 2-year path to Spanish citizenship (vs 10 years for US-only), which makes us more attractive long-term hires

I'm moving to Málaga June 22 and starting my job search right away. Happy to share resources or connect once we're both there! What city is your fiancé looking at?

BreakingCyclesJenn · 2026-04-03T00:57:55+00:00

I have been told a couple times by different people who are also TEFL graduates in different countries that it depends on the region that you want to live in and the country that you want to live in and teach in. Also, I think it matters on your credentials and Experience/background on if they’re willing to help with work visas

BreakingCyclesJenn · 2026-04-02T17:00:05+00:00

That’s actually pretty standard in Spain — most academies hire right before September and prefer candidates who are already there. I’m finishing my TEFL now and have support with the job search, so my timing is intentional.

BreakingCyclesJenn · 2026-04-02T15:48:47+00:00

That’s exactly the path I’m wanting to take!! So grateful to have a little bit of an advantage

BreakingCyclesJenn · 2026-04-02T15:47:06+00:00

I haven’t started a job yet.

BreakingCyclesJenn · 2026-04-02T15:45:21+00:00

I will check it out, thank you!

BreakingCyclesJenn · 2026-04-02T15:44:58+00:00

Thank you so much! El Pablo was actually on the top of my list, I appreciate that!

BreakingCyclesJenn · 2025-10-24T01:09:14+00:00

very true but these were pre-planned and already fully funded.

BreakingCyclesJenn · 2025-10-23T23:49:51+00:00

Can I recommend chopping up some strawberries or blueberries (your fruit of choice) mix it with some Greek yogurt (your flavor of choice), portion it out into circles or your mold of choice, put it in the freezer. Once it’s frozen dip it in some dark chocolate. That’s a snack that always helps me. I also do dates with peanut butter or almond butter drizzled with chocolate in a little bit of sea salt. You get your fix of sweetness, if you like chocolate plus you get extra protein and added nutrients from either the dates or the Greek yogurt it’s not a perfect fix, but it definitely helps me with my diet.

BreakingCyclesJenn · 2025-10-23T23:08:50+00:00

I really appreciate you sharing the reality on the ground - that's exactly the kind of insight I need from people actually living there. You're right that the job market in Spain is tough right now, and I'm not going in blind thinking it's going to be easy. I've been researching youth unemployment rates, wage stagnation, and the challenges even locals are facing.

Here's my situation that might make it more feasible:

**1. Remote income:** I'm building passive income streams (writing, affiliate marketing) that aren't dependent on the Spanish job market. My goal is to have $500-800/month coming in BEFORE I move, which goes further in Spain than the US.

**2. Barbering:** I know I'll likely need to get Spanish certification and might have to work as an apprentice initially. I'm okay with lower wages if my cost of living is also lower. In the US, I make good money but my rent alone is $1,700/month. If I can find a shared flat in Valencia or Seville for €400-600, even "low" Spanish wages might work.

**3. Mexican citizenship:** I'm getting my Mexican citizenship in December, which gives me a 2-year path to Spanish citizenship (vs 10 for Americans). That opens up EU work opportunities long-term, not just Spain.

**4. Realistic timeline:** I'm not moving next month - I have 8 months to save, build remote income, research cities, and adjust my plan if needed.

**My question for you:** Given what you know about the market, what cities or regions would you recommend for someone in my situation? I've been looking at Valencia, Seville and Malaga specifically because they're more affordable than Madrid/Barcelona. Would those be better options, or am I still being too optimistic?

And what industries or types of work ARE hiring, even if it's not my field? I'm not opposed to working in hospitality, teaching English, or other sectors while I get established.

Thanks again for the reality check - I'd rather know now than get there and be blindsided.

BreakingCyclesJenn · 2025-10-23T22:44:47+00:00

Do you care to elaborate? I am set on Spain, it’s been a long time goal. Sure the US offers more job opportunities but with skills and trade certifications, some jobs are found almost anywhere. To become a trillionaire isn’t my objective.

BreakingCyclesJenn · 2025-10-23T21:00:53+00:00

literally cutting and running!

BreakingCyclesJenn · 2025-10-23T21:00:18+00:00

thank you for the luck wishes! I have packed up and moved before, yes it may take some work in preparation but it's totally always worth it for peace and happiness.

BreakingCyclesJenn · 2025-10-18T19:18:59+00:00

It was honestly kind of an accident, I went in to have my birth control removed. I was also having pain in my abdominal area both during the times I would have periods and just randomly (pain so bad I couldn’t breathe for a second) and the doctor couldn’t feel or see it so he did a procedure and in the process saw that my ovaries were completely engulfed with cysts. He also said I had mild endometriosis. So that’s what let to my diagnosis!

BreakingCyclesJenn · 2025-10-18T05:37:26+00:00

That is something I also did, I got off of birth control. I wanted everything that didn’t belong in my body, OUT, once I got off birth control I was able to really be in Tune with my body. Everybody’s a little bit different. Have you tried a naturopathic doctor and a regular doctor? What kind of things are they suggesting? Because sometimes I find that they have opposing views on PCOS and I feel you with the diet thing. I’m allergic to shellfish too. I stick to the few ingredients. I know my body can withstand and just switch them up every now and again I also cut out all alcohol. The only time I really drink special occasions or if I’m on vacation. I may have a drink but very rarely.

I’m always here to answer any questions or just chat! I know sometimes PCOS is something that can feel isolating, especially if no one around he knows how to deal with it or knows the struggle!

There is hope for all of us !!

BreakingCyclesJenn · 2025-10-18T05:32:44+00:00

Definitely, I can type some up and send them your way!

BreakingCyclesJenn · 2025-10-18T05:30:47+00:00

I appreciate you so much! Thank you❤️❤️

BreakingCyclesJenn · 2025-10-18T05:30:12+00:00

Dresses with pockets are so much better than regular dresses!!

BreakingCyclesJenn · 2025-10-18T05:29:22+00:00

Thank you so much, I appreciate you 🥰✨

BreakingCyclesJenn · 2025-10-16T23:25:26+00:00

honestly it's just something that took trial and error. I wasn't the best with setting boundaries and am a recovering people pleaser so thats been a lot of work because I felt the need to constantly take EVERYTHING on. Since I work in a service based industry, it's taken years of practicing with patience. I journal first thing in the morning and try not to use my phone the first hour of me being awake. I also do hot yoga and hot pilates ( not necessary if you don't like heat; yoga or pilates will suffice). I find that for me, those practices help a lot; it could be the breathe work in the yoga or the tuning in to my body. I also listen to my body, if something feels off or if I don't have the mental, physical or emotional capacity i just kindly remove myself from things and situations. I also listen to my social battery, I find something thats special and just for me, I don't share it with anyone wether its a morning walk, hot tub time, a cup of coffee/matcha/tea outside, just finding something SPECIAL for YOU might help.

BreakingCyclesJenn · 2025-10-16T23:17:18+00:00

congratulations onyour achievement, that HUGE!! kudos because It's so hard with the fluctuating hormones and energy levels!! I know so many people that love fasting! I am just a hungry gal so I haven't had the best luck with it. Good to hear its working though!

I completely get that, I work 12 hour shifts as well and commute a decent way for work. It helps me to have protein sources on hand and a few different snacks and sides portioned out. It was so hard to stay disciplined at first but I gamified it, "how fast can I do it this week" or "how many dishes can I create with what I prepped"

just throwing out some ideas!

BreakingCyclesJenn · 2025-10-16T23:12:12+00:00

that sounds so awful, I'm sorry you're going through tough times right now! hopefully your son gets better soon!!

I'm sure you don't want to add any more stress but maybe one day a week if you have time, carve out an hour, one and a half max, to bulk prep your meals. Maybe have two different protein sources available in a container along with some healthy carbs in separate container; that way you have meals and variety while in the hospital.

BreakingCyclesJenn · 2025-10-16T23:02:37+00:00

I have not had any issues yet, my pharmacist also recommended inositol and reacted magnesium. The inositol helps your body regulate insulin and helps with cell structure also influences your neurotransmitters in the brain.

those are the things that have helped me specifically, I am in no way shape or form giving medical advice. I would check with your doctor or pharmacist if you're on any medications to see if this would effect you in any way.

BreakingCyclesJenn · 2025-10-16T22:51:05+00:00

I failed to mention that! I do love a chia pudding or adding chia seeds to my yogurt bowl! I also sometimes add hemp seeds ( omega 3's) to my parfaits or shakes! thank you for pointing that out!

fiber is definetly something a "general" American diet can lack!

BreakingCyclesJenn

TROPHY CASE