Hi everyone, would really appreciate any input. Im about to delve into the tefl world but im stuck at economic/lifestyle crossroads: i realise that korea seems to have the best money and somewhat western look and values , but it sounds hard, merciless and lacking in charachter. On the other hand their is thailand and indonesia: meagre salary but full of charachter and adventure and supposedly less cut-throat.
Could you tell me if i have it right, your experiences and any advice you could give me.( oh yeah im a 22 year old irish male with degree and will have tefl cert) Any input no matter how small would be appreciated, im trying to collect as many opinions and suggestions as possible to make the most informed decision.

Really depends on yourself and the main reason you are going to Asia to teach ESL. If you are going to save money then probably Korea or China would be the best choices, where the pay is reasonably and you can live very cheaply if you chose to.

If you plan to go somewhere more modern, then Japan or Taiwan would probably suit this. And if you are looking for adventure then like you said there is SE Asia, where you could try teaching voluntarily in Cambodia!

Should also consider temperature, as the weather between S.Korea and Northern China, is quite different from somewhere like Thailand!

Unless you're in the top 1% of TEFL you won't make big money. You'll have enough to live on reasonably well (depending how frugal you are) but it won't be a lot. So I'd recommend forgetting the money side of things and going for where you're going to have a great time and a worthwhile experience.

If I were in your position I'd read up a lot on the different countries you're looking at and sooner or later one will start to appeal more; it already sounds like you're moving towards Thailand and Indonesia for a start!

I've had experience teaching Koreans, and they were OK. But they were a bit rude and sometimes plays truant. On the other hand, my students from Indonesia are pretty hardworking and fun. They listen carefully to what I say and study their lessons.
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I suppose it is a bit late for you to benefit from my response, but hopefully it can be useful to others who may read it.

Having lived in Korea and visited Thailand and China for extended periods, I found that each country has its definite advantages and disadvantages.

While it's true, for example, that small business owners in Korea (including private language academy owners) are always looking out for their bottom line, I wouldn't agree that the country is "merciless and lacking in character." Korea is full of character from the booming metropolises of Seoul and Busan, to the inland mountain ranges and coastal beaches. It is currently the strongest and healthiest ESL market offering some of the best teaching contracts, a vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes to explore. Jeju Island off the southern tip of the peninsula, for example, is called the Hawaii of Asia and boasts tropical beaches, tumbling waterfalls and volcanic lava tubes to explore. In my opinion how you perceive a country culturally mostly depends on your own attitude going in. People who are open minded and want to dive wholeheartedly into another culture will find many things to enjoy, while those who lament losing what they know may suffer more from culture shock. For more information about teaching in Korea please visit the Country Information section of our website at http://www.oxfordseminars.com/esl-country-information/countryataglance.php?c=Korea.

China is a great option for first time teachers and non-BA candidates. It has a rich cultural backdrop and offers a variety of teaching possibilities. Completing one experience in China would be beneficial for pursuing other positions elsewhere in the future. Contracts typically include a reasonable salary (generous in light of the low cost of living), accommodations and partial assistance toward flights (at end of contract). For more information about China you can visit http://www.oxfordseminars.com/esl-country-information/countryataglance.php?c=China.

The beaches of Thailand are stunningly beautiful for sunbathing, swimming and snorkeling and the cities abound with the magnificent architecture of ancient temples. In Thailand, most of the ESL jobs offered to English teachers are in the metropolis of Bangkok and there is a huge community of teachers and other expats enjoying what the city has to offer. The pay scale in Thailand is definitely lower than that of Korea, however, and those wanting to save considerable amounts of money may have to look elsewhere. For more information about Thailand please visit our website at http://www.oxfordseminars.com/esl-country-information/countryataglance.php?c=Thailand.

Enjoy your teaching adventure, wherever it may take you!