Wise to the words

An Ideal World(trademark pending)

2012-01-21T15:50:00.001+07:00

In an ideal world all English teachers would be CELTA/TEFL/TESOL certified and hold four year teaching degrees. They would all speak perfect American or British English, and be from the USA, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, South Africa, Barsoom, East Anglia or whatever we designate as a nation of Native-English speakers.
Wouldn't those conditions be wonderful?
Who would the conditions be ideal for?
For government officials anxious to score points and make quotas, perhaps. Unlikely they help students anymore than the current system in South Korea has benefited anyone … not teachers, not school owners, not recruiters, and not the students in need of teachers.
Students need teachers who are knowledgeable, informed, willing to learn, active and involved. They do not need a particular accent, nor do they necessarily need a degree-trained teacher. Their teacher needs the structure that an intensive teacher-training program offers, especially one that is grounded in current practices and theory and makes use of real classroom situations. Please inform me of one English major who got that in university. Having knowledge of Mark Twain, Chaucer and Cervantes is all well and good, but it doesn't help you teach a class of 14 year-old 2nd language speakers whose world view is shaped by four hours of Warcraft every night.
It's time for governments, South Korea, Indonesia and China to wake up and smell the white board.
Students and schools don't need teachers with good papers, they need teachers who can elicit intelligent feedback, encourage interaction, and motivate good communicators. Train the teachers who are here, and hire those who wish and show an aptitude to teach. Cultivate a culture of awareness, improvement and involvement.
If a new paradigm is to be embraced let it be one based on need, common sense and sustainability.

2011-12-04T13:05:00.000+07:00

For those candidates joining our next course please contact us by
email or phone to arrange accommodation and airport pickup.

TESOL / TEFL Courses
Tefl International Indonesia, Surabaya:
All TEFL International courses meet current international standards (over 6 hours of observed teaching practice and over 100 hours of classroom time).
Our courses maximize the cultural experiences of our students and provide multi-cultural interaction and learning opportunities for those in need.

Fees for TEFL Course

•• $1,500 USD (excluding accommodation)
•• $150 - $250 USD (cost of accommodation)
Contact us by email
We had to change the price as the accommodation cost has gone up, as well as mailing costs for certificates
We kept it down for six months,but couldn't do so indefinitely.

Email: Contact us here TESOL / TEFL Courses( or request a callback )
TESOL Certificate:
Minimum Requirements. Age: 20 Years. Education: Capable of producing university-level work
Apply here
English: Fluent or near-native fluency
TEFL International’s certificate is a four week, 120 hours intensive course, teaching students how to teach English as a second language.
TEFL International has been in operation for 9 years and has 21 schools operating around the world.

Joining the TEFL course in Indonesia, Surabaya
For those candidates joining our next course please contact us by
email or phone to arrange accommodation and airport pickup.
Also indicate when you’ll be arriving so we can have accommodation prepared.
Call +62 31 7317352
Call or text +62 081 703 284 155
Call or text +62 087 851 964 031

Course dates for 2012

9 January - 3 February 2012
6 February - 2 March 2012
5 March - 30 March 2012
9 April - 4 May 2012
7 May - 1 June 2012
4 June - 29 June 2012
2 July - 27 July 2012
30 July - 24 August 2012
27 August - 21 September 2012
24 September - 19 October 2012
22 October - 16 November 2012
19 November - 14 December 2012

Please contact us with any more questions
For any further queries please contact TEFL Admin

Located right in Surabaya and near some of the most beautiful beaches and scenery in the world, our TESOL Course Indonesia center is, if not in paradise, at least next door to it. With a wide variety of social and cultural activities, water sports and other activities, vibrant nightlife, delectable Indonesian cuisine, friendly people and close proximity to an abundance of teaching opportunities, Surabaya (and surrounding areas) is sure to have what you are looking for in a learning location.

Remaining course dates for 2011

2011-12-03T08:57:00.000+07:00

For those candidates joining our next course please contact us by
email or phone to arrange accommodation and airport pickup.

TESOL / TEFL Courses
Tefl International Indonesia, Surabaya:
All TEFL International courses meet current international standards (over 6 hours of observed teaching practice and over 100 hours of classroom time).
Our courses maximize the cultural experiences of our students and provide multi-cultural interaction and learning opportunities for those in need.

Fees for TEFL Course

•• $1,500 USD (excluding accommodation)
•• $150 - $250 USD (cost of accommodation)
Contact us by email
We had to change the price as the accommodation cost has gone up, as well as mailing costs for certificates
We kept it down for six months,but couldn't do so indefinitely.

Email: Contact us here TESOL / TEFL Courses( or request a callback )
TESOL Certificate:
Minimum Requirements. Age: 20 Years. Education: Capable of producing university-level work
Apply here
English: Fluent or near-native fluency
TEFL International’s certificate is a four week, 120 hours intensive course, teaching students how to teach English as a second language.
TEFL International has been in operation for 9 years and has 21 schools operating around the world.

Joining the TEFL course in Indonesia, Surabaya
For those candidates joining our next course please contact us by
email or phone to arrange accommodation and airport pickup.
Also indicate when you’ll be arriving so we can have accommodation prepared.
Call +62 31 7317352
Call or text +62 081 703 284 155
Call or text +62 087 851 964 031

Remaining course dates for 2011

(current course)28 November - 23 December

Course dates for 2012

9 January - 3 February 2012
6 February - 2 March 2012
5 March - 30 March 2012
9 April - 4 May 2012
7 May - 1 June 2012
4 June - 29 June 2012
2 July - 27 July 2012
30 July - 24 August 2012
27 August - 21 September 2012
24 September - 19 October 2012
22 October - 16 November 2012
19 November - 14 December 2012

Please contact us with any more questions
For any further queries please contact TEFL Admin

Located right in Surabaya and near some of the most beautiful beaches and scenery in the world, our TESOL Course Indonesia center is, if not in paradise, at least next door to it. With a wide variety of social and cultural activities, water sports and other activities, vibrant nightlife, delectable Indonesian cuisine, friendly people and close proximity to an abundance of teaching opportunities, Surabaya (and surrounding areas) is sure to have what you are looking for in a learning location.

New sites

2011-08-12T02:39:00.000+07:00

Check us out at our new sites

http://tefljavacourse.com

http;//www.teflindonesia.com/apply.html

Happy birthday to friends from my childhood

2011-03-22T16:32:00.003+07:00

An achievement

Turning eighty. It’s been done before, but it seems special when the individual, or individuals in this case, represented youth and vitality for a generation. Never mind that one of them wore a rug … he was still cool. He still is cool.
Yeah, I’m writing about the SHAT and Mr. Spock.
William Shatner and Leonard Nimoy turn 80 this year.
Hokey Smokes, Bullwinkle! Can that be true?
There's a part of me that wants to write 'Phasers on maudlin' as if to distance myself from this, but that would be to diminish what was a vital ingredient of my youth.
I was six or seven when I watched my first Star Trek episode(Wolf in the Fold) and other than the few visual clues that helped me peg the episode a few years later, I didn’t remember much. Later I was hooked. I never wore ears, or a uniform but it was a big part of growing up.
I was always a Kirk fan, but no denying the Spock mystique, or the fact that Nimoy aged more gracefully than his erstwhile commanding officer.
When Star Trek the Motion Picture came out it was a month or so after my first plane ride, and I felt I could identify with Kirk boarding the (The definite article was still in use on Trek then.) Enterprise. That is my badge of geekdom.
Star Trek 2: the Wrath of Khan, brought us to the reality that these guys were aging. The next few movies seemed to be living in denial of that reality.
To see what Shatner and Nimoy have done away from Trek has been gratifying to fans of the actors and performers.
Wishing both men healthy and happy birthdays, and many more to come.
Our son Wyatt turns seven this month. Wyatt is our effort to boldly go into the future . We hope we do it with as much dignity and purpose as these two gentlemen have come to embody.

Regards,Wayne

Reading and comprehension practice

2011-03-18T20:37:00.006+07:00

Practice

Rose's sister ran up the stairs two at a time. She wasn’t aware of how fast she was moving until she was in the long corridor. Even as she raced towards the room she wondered what had happened.

Rose ate breakfast and lunch with the family. She listened attentively to her private teacher that afternoon, and ate her usual dinner with the teacher after her music lesson. She didn’t argue when it was time to go to bed.

By the time Joanne had reached the door Rose’s screams had become an almost inhuman wail. She forced herself to focus and not give into the panic she was feeling.

Joanne attempted to open the door, but found it was locked. She placed her shoulder against the cold wood and tried to force the door. The effort was futile. The heavy door wouldn’t budge an inch.

Vocabulary
Please explain the words, using five to seven words, as they are used in the passage.

corridor ________________________________________________________________________
wail ________________________________________________________________________
Attentively ________________________________________________________________________
Futile ________________________________________________________________________
Budge ________________________________________________________________________

1. What did Joanne do when she heard her sister scream?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
2. Why had she been surprised?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
3. What had happened when she reached the room?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
4. What might have been wrong?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
5. Re-write paragraph two in past perfect.
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________

Native speaker syndrome

2010-12-17T10:14:00.002+07:00

Let's call it N.S.S. (Native speaker syndrome); there is no one cause, and no viable cure. Schools that 'sell the native-speaker' are offering a product that is easier to sell, the mystique of the exotic, an assumption of proficiency (fluency combined with accuracy) and in some cases the white factor.

School owners are selling a product with a ready market. Selling non-native speakers means bucking market trends. Which businessperson is going to turn away from a sure thing to chart an unfamiliar course? Any DoS/AC/recruiter that pushes too hard against this 'current market wisdom' will find someone else warming their chair before long.

There’s a certain excitement in having a ‘stranger’ in the classroom. The exotic alien may have insight into learning. They may be a window into another culture. They may just create a stir in the market. Many businesses survive by ‘selling the sizzle instead of the steak’.

There is the thought that someone who has spoken a language their whole life will have a better grasp of grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation. The desire to get the ‘real thing’ is strong in many consumer groups. Perhaps some parents believe this will be the advantage their child needs.

The alleged bonus of the white face, the blue eyes and the ‘native’ accent sells quite a few courses, and entices the customer to cross the street. It also creates unrealistic expectations and has created its own unique problems.
NSS is a somewhat flippant attempt to deal with a situation that isn’t going to go away. As teachers and administrators we need to make schools, parents and students aware of the alternatives.

Top Ten reasons to teach overseas

2010-12-12T22:11:00.000+07:00

Spies and other lies

2010-09-08T07:17:00.002+07:00

Narrative essay
Spies and other lies

1. From ancient Babylon and Sparta, and through the ages up to the modern Persian Gulf, spies have changed history. The intrigues, plots, thefts and lies existed in Greece, Rome and China and beyond the fall of the Russia-led soviet state. Secrets have been hidden, lost, stolen and revealed. The fortunes and misfortunes of war have been influenced by the information gathered by espionage.
Military spies
2. When the formerly trustworthy colleague becomes the instrument of heart-felt betrayal, you’ve learnt you have a spy in your midst. Late at night a shadowy figure slips into an enemy camp and makes off with important documents. At least that’s the popular image of the spy at work. More likely the spy is someone within the close-confines of a military unit or the intelligence network of that nation. Generally this individual sells secrets for profit. Various armed forces have their own intelligence networks, and deal in sensitive matters such as weapons, tactics and present and future strategies. The loss of any of these could decide a battle, or a war.
Political spies
3. Politics is at least as dangerous as war. The internal and external health of a nation can rise or fall because of the right or wrong political information. Many unfortunate politicians have had their reputations and their careers destroyed by scandal. The spies may come from a foreign power, but are more likely from an opposing political party or the press. The discovery that their leaders are disreputable or easily influenced can be disheartening to a nation and affect it’s standing in the international community.
Sleepers in our midst ‘The reality of illegals’
4. Recently a group of foreign agents was discovered in the United States of America. These US-based ‘illegals’ were foreign agents posing as American, Canadian and British citizens. They had carefully-crafted false identities, elaborately-false past lives, and had fooled their business associates, their neighbours and even their children. No one is quite sure of their mission. Whether they were after military, corporate, political or financial secrets, remains as mysterious as their true identities once were. Who allowed these agents to enter, and why weren’t they discovered sooner raises questions of accountability. The confusion and paranoia created by their discovery can be as damaging as whatever actions they may have taken or planned.
Corporate Espionage
5. Nations and businesses thrive on information. ‘Knowledge is power’ is the mission statement of all but the most naïve of corporate leaders. Manufacturers of heavy equipment, aerospace, communications, medical or pharmaceutical products all have design and manufacturing secrets that help them to maintain a competitive edge or to dominate a particular market. Even fast food chains and soft drink producers have secret formulae.
6. There are organizations and individuals who make it their business to find, steal, duplicate and sell those closely-guarded secrets. The loss of this information could seriously damage, or even destroy, a company. The loss of large companies means the loss of jobs, and has wide spread repercussions in the national and global market.
7. We marvel at the covert exploits of spies in films and books, while we shake our heads at the reality of their clandestine activities. We don’t really believe in the existence of spies. They inhabit the corners of our realities, and linger in the shadows of our perceived civilized societies. Their influence doesn’t depend on our belief to be effective, but it impacts our lives at the most basic levels. Secrets exist everywhere. Their existence shapes our lives. The advantages of having those secrets can impact on us socially, financially and affect our basic safety.

Vocabulary
1. Clandestine _________________________________________
2. Confusion _________________________________________
3. Disreputable _________________________________________
4. Accountability _________________________________________
5. Unfortunate _________________________________________
6. Trustworthy _________________________________________
7. Community _________________________________________
8. Espionage _________________________________________

Comprehension for reading
True and False
1. Spies are a creation of our modern world. T/F
3. Espionage is a part of our lives T/F
2. Spying in real life is just like the movies. T/F

Please answer in full sentences, using your own words as much as possible. If you use parts from the passage please use quotation marks around that portion.

3. Roughly estimate how long humans have spied on one another.(1)
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

4. Why do spies steal military secrets? (2)
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

5. Why is espionage harmful to a nation? (2)
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
6. What were the ‘illegals’ after?(2)
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

7. Speculate on the financial and social costs of spying.(3)
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Our newest word list

2010-09-08T07:07:00.003+07:00

You can create a story or essay by using the words in the given form or by altering tense and word class.

1. Soothing
2. Humiliated
3. Rationalized
4. Perceive
5. perspiration
6. Composure
7. Simultaneously
8. Chaos
9. Humility
10. Boast

Good luck

Ramadhan has ended, Lebaran has begun

2010-09-08T06:42:00.003+07:00

A new holiday has started

Our school is now off for a week or so.
As students in Canada make their way back into classrooms, and adults recover from the long weekend, the travel and visiting of Lebaran are beginning.

The fasting has ended. I honestly don't know how people fast in this heat, especially going without water for extended periods. I'm told you get used to it. While I embrace the that we should all find our own way to live and worship, I don't see fasting ever becoming a part of my life.

I wish all a safe trip home and a great time with family and friends.

Top Ten reason to TEFL

2010-08-17T12:29:00.000+07:00

Top ten reasons to Teach English

1. You can’t sit on the couch all year
2. Even The Kardashians are starting to get bored
3. There is no new Star Trek franchise
4. Somebody has to do it
5. We can’t all work in retail
6. How many times are you going to apply at McDonald's?
7. Mom and Dad need a life
8. The girl next door is not ‘playing hard to get’
9. Someone is your graduating class needs to get a job
10. If you lived here, you’d already be home

Top ten reasons to live in the tropics

1. You’ll be there when the first coconuts come off the line
2. You could get a real suntan
3. People still won’t understand you, but you won’t care
4. Seasons? Who needs ‘em!?!
5. Sand gets in some interesting places.
6. Tan lines are better than …
7. Do you like shoveling snow?
8. Because you can
9. You will believe a man can fry
10. Fresh fruit

Top ten reasons to work overseas

1. You could use a change of scenery
2. Telemarketers won’t call
3. Something to talk about to your grand kids
4. Something to talk about on your next date
5. Get a date
6. Get off the couch
7. Disneyland is the most exotic place you can imagine
8. You need to update Facebook
9. Indonesia is not just a menu selection
10. Experience three kinds of Java (coffee, the island, and coding language)

Top ten reasons to leave home

1. Mom needs to change your sheets
2. Dad wants to have that talk with you
3. Uncle Bill’s off the wagon again
4. It’s better to have a housekeeper
5. Walmart
6. Oprah’s going off the air
7. Let’s give Jay and Conan some room to sort it out
8. Your passport needs love
9. The grass is greener on the other side
10. Get tagged in some interesting photos

Top ten reasons to be a teacher

1. Respect and some money
2. Sometimes you’ll actually feel like a star
3. You can make a difference
4. What are you saving all that language for?
5. You need some experience
6. Are you experienced?
7. You have to learn grammar someday
8. We can’t all be on American Idol
9. It’s a great way to meet people
10. You’ll enjoy it

Top ten reasons to see the world

1. It’s changing
2. It’s an interesting place
3. If you stand in one place the world will not come to you
4. It’s there
5. You’ll be amazed by what you see
6. You’ll be amazed by what you hear
7. You’ll be amazed by what you feel
8. You’ll be amazed by what you taste
9. You’ll be amazed by what you smell
10. People will be amazed by you

Joining the TEFL course in Indonesia, Surabaya
For those candidates joining our next course please contact us by
email or phone to arrange accommodation and airport pickup.
Also indicate when you’ll be arriving so we can have accommodation prepared.
Call +62 31 7317352
Call or text +62 081 703 284 155
Call or text +62 087 851 964 031
admin.teflindo@gmail.com
Yours sincerely,Wayne Duplessis
Indonesia, Surabaya

Remaining course dates for 2011

5 September - 30 September 2011
3 October - 28 October 2011
31 October - 25 November 2011
28 November - 23 December 2011

Please contact us with any more questions
For any further queries please contact TEFL Admin

Located right in Surabaya and near some of the most beautiful beaches and scenery in the world, our TESOL Course Indonesia center is, if not in paradise, at least next door to it. With a wide variety of social and cultural activities, water sports and other activities, vibrant nightlife, delectable Indonesian cuisine, friendly people and close proximity to an abundance of teaching opportunities, Surabaya (and surrounding areas) is sure to have what you are looking for in a learning location.

Passages strange,inevitable and regrettable

2010-06-29T10:23:00.006+07:00

It's completely in your hands where you want to place the items in the brief list I'm about to share with you. Is it a strange, inevitable or regrettable event?

My holiday is coming to an end this week and it seemed that I should make an effort to put words to digital paper. Our holiday was largely unremarkable and for the most part,enjoyable. Wyatt graduated from Kindergarten and will move into the first grade. I will continue for a third year with Singapore National Academy. Tefl Indonesia continues as before, but is in need of agents in North America and Australia.

Heart-breaking news as Adrienne Colan passed away. Adrienne is the wife of Marvel/DC comics artist Gene Colan
I didn't know Adrienne, nor do I know Gene. I've had the pleasure of following Gene's work over the years and took a moment in 1999 to send a short letter of appreciation. Gene and Adrienne responded. The responses were usually short, but always thoughtful. Over the next few years I sent an occasional note and received an occasional reply.
For Adrienne ... Go in peace.

This time of year also marks 12 months since my younger brother Troy passed away. Before this gets too morbid, we were traveling through Central Java, stopping in Solo and Yogyakarta, and I was thinking how much Troy would have enjoyed the place. I'm posting a few pictures over at another site. Stop by and take a look.

All the best,Wayne

Happy holidays

2009-12-21T10:33:00.006+07:00

2009 is about to end.

It wasn't such a bad year.

My younger brother passed away in May.
MR. TROY ANDREW DUPLESSIS: 1964 - 2009
May 24, 2009

MR. TROY ANDREW DU PLESSIS
Of Burk’s Falls

“Pure of Heart”

Suddenly at his residence in Burk’s Falls on Sunday May 24, 2009. Troy was in his 46th year.

"Anything that is real
Cannot be destroyed
Anything that is not real
Does not exist
Therein lies the grace of God"

Goodbye to a friend, and a brother

Photo(in back) Michael,Kevin,Ruth
(in front)Wayne,Troy,Byron

Troy Andrew Duplessis was born on February 16th, 1964 and he died May 24 , 2009

I didn't get back home to say goodbye
The service was rushed(from my perspective) and there wasn't time.
His wife and son had the right to make any final arrangement they chose.
It would have been nice to see him one last time.
We were close. We had our arguments, and even a few fist-fights growing up.
We kept in contact, which - with him in various parts of Canada and me wandering around Asia - wasn't always easy.

I hope the best for his family
I miss you Troy

Family is otherwise well.

We're trying to relax over this holiday, and spending time together.
For all, keep well, keep healthy and focus on what is important and essential.

For those candidates joining our next course

2009-10-10T18:49:00.007+07:00

For those candidates joining our next course please contact us by
email or phone to arrange accommodation and airport pickup.

Also indicate when you’ll be arriving so we can have accommodation prepared.

Fill out an application form and take that next step towards learning amidst the big city buzz and excitement of Surabaya.
Indonesia, Surabaya

Historic Surabaya.
Surabaya is an ancient city, with a rich history.
It's a tale that has been written in the blood, hopes and accomplishments of the amazing people who have lived here.
From the rich tapestry of Javanese culture, to the vibrant Madurese impact, and on to the interweaving of Indian, Arabic and Chinese cultures ... Surabaya has always been a meeting place for imagination and destiny.
A major shipping center, a transit port, and an international gateway ... Indonesia's second-largest city, and the capital of East Java, has a rich history and an exciting present waiting to be discovered.
From poets to princes; from revolutionaries to teachers; Surabaya is truly the City of heroes.
A few hours from some of the most amazing beaches in the world.
Near a thriving nightlife scene and plenty of restaurants, shops
and other activities.

Tefl International Indonesia, Surabaya:
All TEFL International courses meet current international standards for a 120 hour course (including over 6 hours of observed teaching practice and over 100 hours of classroom time).
Our courses maximize the cultural experiences of our students and provide multi-cultural interaction and learning opportunities for those in need.

Fees for TEFL Course
$1,500 USD (excluding accommodation)
$120 - $250 USD (cost of accommodation)

TESOL Certificate:
Minimum Requirements.
Age: 20 Years.
Education: Capable of producing university-level work

English: Fluent or near-native fluency
TEFL International's TESOL certificate is a four-week intensive course, teaching students how to teach English as a second language.
Call +62 31 5669425
Call or text +62 081 703 284 155
Call or text +62 087 851 964 031
Email us
Yours sincerely,Wayne Duplessis

You’ll work hard, and you’ll be prepared to Teach English Abroad.

Indonesia, Surabaya - TEFL Course Schedule (TESOL Certification)

Joining the TEFL course in Indonesia, Surabaya

Also indicate when you'll be arriving so we can have accommodation prepared.

Call Tefl Indonesia and ask about getting certified

Call or text +62 081 703 284 155
Call or text +62 087 851 964 031

Contact Tefl Indonesia

Indonesia, Surabaya

TEFL Course Schedule
(TESOL Certification)

Calendar for 2011
Course dates for 2011
3 January - 28 January 2011
31 January - 25 February 2011
28 February - 25 March 2011
4 April - 29 April 2011
2 May - 27 May 2011
6 June - 1 July 2011
4 July - 29 July 2011
1 August - 26 August 2011
5 September - 30 September 2011
3 October - 28 October 2011
31 October - 25 November 2011
28 November - 23 December 2011

Please contact us with any more questions
For any further queries please contact TEFL Admin

Our Contact numbers
- Indonesia (Surabaya)

Email Tefl Indonesia

Skype
wayne.duplessis

TEFL International Indonesia
Here is the contact information:
Adryan Sutanto
Telephone: +62 081 703284155

Wayne Duplessis
Telephone: +62 087 851 964 031 (call or text)

Netty Poernomo
Course Director
Telephone: +62 31 732 0973
Fax: +62 31 732 0974

Campus Address:
TEFL International Indonesia
Raya Darmo Permai 111 KAV 15
BLOK C1 C2
Surabaya, Jawa Timur, 60241
Indonesia
Telephone: +62 31 732 0973
Fax: +62 31 732 0974

Visit our website for more details on the course,location,visa and tuition costs

SNA's Amazing Race Season 1

2009-08-01T11:52:00.001+07:00

Bullies

2009-06-14T07:34:00.007+07:00

I was just reading Clifford Meth's blog. Clifford Lawrence Meth (February 22, 1961) is an American writer and editor best known for his dark fiction.
Mr. Meth always has something to say about something, and it's often relevant

This time he was writing about his son's issues with bullies.
This is why is was relevant to me .
We've all met them. The little snots,the big jackasses and the more malicious cretins whose bullying is becoming the way to shut down comment or open, honest discussion.
We've dealt with them,been harassed by them, and may have even been them.
As a parent and as a teacher, I've tried to be aware of bullies, and to deal with them as effectively as possible. I would think I've failed as often as I've succeeded.

How do you deal with them when it's your child being picked on.
Easy answer might be to sort it out yourself, as some parents and teachers have tried to do. Then of course, you've supplanted one bully with another.

My son Wyatt is five. The other bullies are five, or six perhaps.
We were at a birthday party for Wyatt's classmates. It started as a play-fight. Things you see in schoolyards and school hallways everyday. The kids would throw their punches and let go with kicks, no one was hit,but the energy behind the actions started to escalate.
Watching it from a distance was not pleasant, but I made myself wait to see how Wyatt could deal with it. Wyatt didn't punch or kick, just waved his hands at the others and then they moved in. I half stood and then the moment passed.
There were a few more incidents, but nothing came of them.
I've certainly seen the end results of more malicious incidents at school.
For me to step in as a parent or a teacher is to make the bullied more of a target, I can only hope that the few times I pulled a really nasty little snot away, or consoled a victim,that I've done some good.

I'll leave you with this short bit of dialogue from one of my favorite films
'The Ghost and the Darkness' written by William Goldman
(this is actually from the original screenplay and Redbeard became Remington(played by Michael Douglas) in the movie)

REDBEARD
In my town, when I was little,
there was a brute, a bully who
terrorized the place.
(beat)
But he was not the problem. He
had a brother who was worse than
he. But the brother was not the
problem.
(beat)
One or the other of them was
usually in jail. The problem came
when they were both free together.
The two became different from
either alone.
(beat)
Alone they were only brutes.
Together they became lethal,
together they killed.

PATTERSON
What happened to them?

REDBEARD
(pause)
I got big.
(They move on)
(Used completely without permission,but with no realistic hope of profit)

Words for June 2009

2009-06-05T14:44:00.002+07:00

Words
We need words
Use the words

1. Belligerent
2. Judgmental
3. Caustic
4. Witty
5. Sarcastic
6. Clever
7. Surgical
8. Blunt
9. Tacit
10.Appropriate

dealing with it

2009-06-05T14:32:00.004+07:00

My brother died recently
I haven't dealt with it very well, unless you consider moping and generally being a pain in the ass dealing with it
I'm trying to stay outwardly relaxed as I don't want my wife to worry about my health.
Troy was the third person in my family to die of a heart attack. Although my heart rate, various EKGs and blood pressure that's 120/80 would seem to indicate I'm a pretty healthy guy. Unfortunately for my wife I am not a healthy pretty guy.
Focus
Now I'm trying to take time. Get my head on straight and focus on getting our course going strong
Wish me luck

Wyatt at SNA

2009-05-31T13:36:00.001+07:00

Wyatt's dance

Challenger's Folly

2009-04-09T05:28:00.001+07:00

Here's a Cloze Passage for you

Use the words to complete the sentences below. Use the correct form of the word.
Exaggerate Humourous Horrible Valuable Immediately
Ancient Surprise Sensible Marvelous Fantasy

On November 20th, 1887 the Society for World Exploration and Discovery met in Huddersfield, Northern England.
“We really enjoyed your story. It was a ___________________ bit of foolishness,” Dr. McCoy chuckled.
“It wasn’t a story, and it isn’t foolish.” Professor Challenger almost shouted.
“Come now, Sir. Surely you’ve ____________________ your travels.” The older man insisted.
Challenger had shown the Society members sketches and plaster casts of creatures that could have been characters in a _______________. He had presented unicorns, gryphons and ogres, and to everyone’s ________________ he had told them his story was true.
He then shocked the crowd of scientists, archaeologists, paleontologists and professors by holding up an _________________ and very _____________ map, then setting it on fire.
“This has stopped being _________________,” an elderly professor roared.
“Garbage,” Challenger shouted “This map is nonsense.”
Challenger’s actions had created excitement and anger. He was shouted at, and told to be __________________.
“I’m not the one talking nonsense, as you’ll see later this evening,” Challenger said softly.
Later that evening the older man said, “you will never prove such a ridiculous story.”
Challenger smiled. He got up, walked behind a chair and _________________ opened a large wooden box. From the box he pulled a ______________- looking skull.
“Is that the skull of an ogre?” Dr. McCoy asked.
“Yes. I do believe it is,” said Challenger – clearly he was feeling proud of himself.

Wise to the words ...once again

2009-03-27T15:57:00.003+07:00

It's been a few months

A new list

1) Contact
2) Change
3) Blot
4) Thirst
5) Fiction
6) Science
7) Search
8) Envelope
9) Web
10) Dribble

Re-inventing yourself

2009-02-26T04:29:00.002+07:00

Videos of February 2009 course
Here's a few videos of the course that finishes this week

http://www.metacafe.com/tags/tefl_indo/

http://www.youtube.com/user/duplez61

All the best,Wayne

New Word List

2009-02-12T03:30:00.002+07:00

Here's our new list of words.
Create what you wish

1. Marvelous
2. Dreadful
3. Secret
4. Myth
5. Pact
6. Vow
7. Understanding
8. Faith
9. Honest
10. Love

All the best,Wayne

New course

2009-02-08T18:15:00.003+07:00

Our first course began on February 2nd, 2009 with five candidates.
Five people who wanted to gain their certificate and teach English.

You can do it as well.

Joining Tefl Indonesia’s course

2009-01-24T11:20:00.006+07:00

Joining Tefl Indonesia’s February course

February course revving up

Next Course begins March 3rd,2009

Indonesia, Surabaya

TEFL Course Schedule

(TESOL Certification)

02 March - 27 March 2009
06 April - 01 May 2009
04 May - 29 May 2009
01 June - 26 June 2009
06 July -31 July 2009
03 August - 28 August 2009
07 September - 02 October 2009
05 October - 30 October 2009
02 November - 27 November 2009
30 November - 25 December 2009

Located right in Surabaya and near some of the most beautiful beaches and scenery in the world, our TESOL Course Indonesia center is, if not in paradise, at least next door to it. With a wide variety of social and cultural activities, water sports and other activities, vibrant nightlife, delectable Indonesian cuisine, friendly people and close proximity to an abundance of teaching opportunities, Surabaya (and surrounding areas) is sure to have what you are looking for in a learning location.

For more information on the course, our history and Indonesia

For our March course contact us now

For any further queries please contact TEFL Admin

Our Contact numbers - Indonesia (Surabaya)
Email	Netty Wayne admin.teflindo@gmail.com
MSN ID	duper@hotmail.com
Yahoo ID	duplez@yahoo.com
Phone	+62 31 5669425 / (tel ~txt)+62 31 70391074

Skype	wayneduplessis
Postal	TEFL International Indonesia Raya Darmo Permai III/A-9 Surabaya, Jawa Timur, 60221 Indonesia In Canada please contact recruit in Canada

Words for the New Year

2009-01-01T09:48:00.003+07:00

Here's the newest list
Words
Write something with the words below.
Use the words as you will. Use them as verbs,nouns,adverbs or adjectives. Use the past,present or future. Use the simple,perfect or continuous.
Use the language. Write in English. The point is to use the words, use the language, and use your creativity. Don't misuse the word,just be imaginative.
Email me at duplessis.wayne@gmail.com

1. Flash
2. Integrity
3. Thought
4. Clasp
5. Belt
6. Case
7. Spoon
8. Chemical
9. Rain
10.Mixture

I hope to make myself understood

2008-12-30T03:22:00.000+07:00

My hopes for the New Year

This year I hope to make myself understood.

I hope to be more clear with what I say and what I intentionally communicate. I hope to better understand things I’m unintentionally communicating. I hope to communicate better with my wife, my children and my students.

For all of you, I hope life is good

All the best,Wayne

I hope to make myself understood

2008-12-29T14:55:00.002+07:00

I hope to make myself understood

This year I hope to make myself understood.

We spent our holiday traveling around java, and visiting theme parks

I will post photos here and on Facebook of Tanjung Kodok,BNS and ...

All the best,Wayne

holidays

2008-12-16T06:02:00.003+07:00

We're on holiday.
That should be good,but it has a downside.
I'm crap with free-time.
We decided to head to Tanjung Kodok.
Anyone of you out there with the barest grasp of Indonesian knows that Kodok is frog. Here was this Villa surrounded by clay frogs.
Ah, but the story doesn't begin there.
We were to meet the other parents and assorted kidlets at Linda's house. We arrived dutifully at 8:00am. Stupid us.
After assorted fits and starts we got going at 9:30am.
The car was packed with gear,luggage and small things that made horrendous noise.
After a two-hour drive we arrived at the villa. It was very nice, very modern, and for the first 10 minutes it was clean and looked like it might be a relaxing couple of days.
Ha
First day we visited the zoo
Less a zoo than a strange park that animals live in.
I will post pictures
That afternoon we stopped at a restaurant and I ordered the Gule Kambing(goat Chowder) ...one of my favourites. It wasn't the bits of bone, it wasn't the fat, it wasn't even the rawhide presented as edible, it was the chili that made me push this away away after two valiant attempts to eat it. This dish is one of the more subtly-flavoured experiences you can have here. The tender meat, the play of various spices, the rich aroma. To place this crap before anyone is a insult to food, goats, diners and Indonesia.
That afternoon I took some photos around the rocky beach.
I was congratulating Emily and myself on how well behaved Wyatt was in comparison to the hellions that are his classmates.
The next day was Wyatt's.
Now I want to preface this ...Wyatt is a well-behaved, but active kid. He's usually a good-traveler.
It started simply enough. We had breakfast at the hotel. Good.
Wyatt acted up a little. After a few calming words from dad he sat still, or as still as any four year old sits.I got the lecture on how loud my voice is. It is.
We headed from the park.
Wyatt and I both had swim suits under our clothes and were prepared to quick change as soon as water appeared. When Wyatt learned swimming was later he voiced his concerns. Man, and they thought I was loud.
This went on at every attraction. Bumper cars(once he was in, he was fine),helicoptor ride,small roller-oaster, atv bikes,go Karts after the rides ended, the noise began again.
Finally we got to the swimming.
We survived.
We made it back to Surabaya.
I took Wyatt to the bathroom.
Wyatt proceeded to pee, before his pants were off - wetting pants and shoes, meaning happy dad needed to use most of the handtowels to clean him up.
We ate. Heading home Wyatt started to screech. Every head in the restaurant turned.
Wow. Can't wait for the next vacation.

This January ... start the new year with a new direction

2008-12-16T02:02:00.002+07:00

Joining our January course

Dear Candidates

For those candidates who will be joining our
January course;please confirm (by phone or email) your
bookings,pay your deposits - if you haven’t already done so -
and confirm whether you’ll be needing accommodation.

For those joining our February course; please confirm the
above no later than mid-January.

Note that these dates correspond to a Monday to Friday schedule.

Thank you for your time, patience and interest

Apply here
Contact us about making a deposit

Yours sincerely,Wayne Duplessis

The term is almost over

2008-11-29T13:59:00.005+07:00

What's been happening at Singapore National Academy?
Our school term and the first semester is drawing to a close.
Exams are completed and have been marked. They'll be a few disappointments, and a few sighs of relief. In general the results are what was expected.
One more week remains. The week will begin with hand backs, and a couple of final projects. There will be one small holiday assignment for each class.
We still don't know how we'll spend the holiday.
.................................----
I'd love to get to Flores or Komodo, but perhaps we'll settle for a trip to Yogjakarta.
-------------------------------------
Tefl Indonesia's January course is still open
Contact us for details
Tefl International in Indonesia

Have a great holiday
Be safe

Wise to the words for November 2008

2008-11-08T07:45:00.003+07:00

Here's a new list of words
1. Hope
2. Relief
3. Consideration
4. Responsibility
5. Concern
6. Culmination
7. Distance
8. Formula
9. Economy
10.Realistic

Congratulations on a wonderful choice for President

2008-11-08T07:42:00.000+07:00

Hello All

Congratulations on a wonderful choice for President.

The world joins you in an admixture of joy and relief.

Such is the measure of hope that President Obama has inspired that here in East Java we've just had an election for governor where only 54% voted -due to apathy, and disgust over corruption - while Obama's path to the Presidency has been closely observed.

Fairly, or unfairly, the world's hopes ride on his slender shoulders.

All the best, Wayne

Videos

2008-11-06T23:06:00.002+07:00

Hello There

I haven't posted for some time
Here are a few videos for you amusement

myself, teachers and staff in Jinzhou,Liaoning,China

Chinese New Year

My son Wyatt

Wyatt Rocks

Family in Jinzhou

Family

Wyatt's Graduation from playgroup

Graduation

All the best,Wayne

Joining Tefl Indonesia's November course

2008-10-12T04:52:00.001+07:00

Joining our November course

September 19th, 2008

Friday, October 10, 2008

Dear Candidates

For those candidates who will be joining our
next course;please confirm (by phone or email) your
bookings,pay your deposits - if you haven’t already done so -
and confirm whether you’ll be needing accommodation.

For those joining any upcoming course; please confirm the
above no later than mid-month.

The November session will begin on the 3rd and continue until the 28th.

Note that these dates correspond to a Monday to Friday schedule.
Thank again for your time and patience.

Yours sincerely, Wayne Duplessis

Thank you for your time, patience and interest

http://www.teflindonesia.com

Yours sincerely,Wayne Duplessis

An unfinished story #2

2008-10-09T14:08:00.003+07:00

A short unfinished story using the numbered words.
It's a class assignment for grade four.
See what you can do with it.
Continue the story.
Use the words and create a new story.
Use the words and write sentences.

1) Courageous
2) Fearless
3) Fierce
4) Dream
5) Pirate
6) Octopus
7) Triplets
8) Groan
9) Whine
10) Scream
11) Interrupt
12) Problem
13) Complain
14) Narrative
15) Rhythm
16) Introduction
17) Giggle
18) Order
19) Island
20) Angrily
21) a bit past her prime
22) relative safety

Red sails and wooden teeth

“Heave ho,” the mate shouted. The crew began lifting the heavy ropes that had just been untied from the harbour moorings. People on the dock waved. Some faces were sad and some were smiling. The crew was too busy to notice.

A wooden vessel, proudly flying the Union Jack, Excelsior was a bit past her prime and the deck groaned as if in protest to the many feet that crossed it.

Captain Nathan Fletcher stood quietly, resting his large hands on the ship’s railing. His face was serious and his eyes stared past the crowd at something only he could see. He was used to problems both on and off the ship. He didn’t like them, but he was prepared to deal with them. This was certainly not his first trip, but the news of pirate attacks made the potential for danger that much greater.

Fletcher was as fearless as any man who’d faced storms, sharks, at least one octopus, and more than his share of difficulties. This ship was under his command and he’d see her and her crew safely home, as he had countless times.

Excelsior had a new crew on this voyage and a few of the old crew were not on board. Ship’s crew was always a varied group of seasoned sailors, raw recruits and men with few other options. This trip featured a ship’s doctor - whose glass eye spent as much time in a glass as it did in it’s scarred socket, triplets-identical down to their footwear -when they wore any, and a giant who whistled. His cheerful whistle almost made people forget his size.

Excelsior’s captain had heard them complain about the food, and the work they had to do. Later he’d listened, taking care not to interrupt, as his first mate delivered a chilling narrative of a typical voyage. He watched the men ‘s faces as they struggled to appear courageous in front of their friends and shipmates.

Fletcher took his morning walk, as he did everyday in good weather.. Moving quietly around the ship he observed, and was observed by, the crew. A few weeks into the voyage a rhythm could be seen in the crew’s routine. Tasks were done carefully and efficiently, and there wasn’t too much time wasted.

Late that night a mournful sound could be heard. Men edged uneasily to the side of the ship. Sounds of Sorrow became shrieks of stark terror. The crew fell back from the rail as if scalded. Some falling, stumbling over their friends as they scrambled for the relative safety of the deck’s center.

An unfinished tale #1

2008-10-09T12:28:00.004+07:00

A short unfinished story using the numbered words.
It's a class assignment for grade five.
See what you can do with it.
Continue the story.
Use the words and create a new story.
Use the words and write sentences.

1) Polite
2) Knife
3) Pleasant
4) Tablecloth
5) Unhappily
6) Business
7) Thick
8) Hurried
9) Scrambling
10) Chiefly
11) Kindness
12) Sympathize
13) Handkerchief
14) Streaming
15) Odd
16) Cooking
17) Eating
18) Smiling
19) Stopping
20) Trying
21) Counting
22) Lying
23) Hitting
24) Working
25) Preparing
26) Driving
27) Using
28) Reading
29) Swimming
30) Raining
31) … could cut the tension with a knife
32) … in concert with

Café Collision

Raining outside and stormy inside. Linda and Marcus had been making polite conversation for about twenty minutes, but you could cut the tension with a knife. Linda seemed outwardly pleasant even as she folded the edges of the tablecloth in an attempt to control her anger. Their relationship had ended unhappily, and this lunch had been a hurried attempt to finish any outstanding business between them. Her temper was something he never understood. It was also the thing he seemed to provoke most often.

She was trying to control herself. He could almost hear her counting to ten. They needed to focus on getting everything sorted and divided.

Marcus couldn’t really care what she did with house, but was here chiefly because he was trying to sympathize with a woman he still cared for, but couldn’t bear being in the same room with.

Kindness was proving costly. Linda had arrived with a thick bundle of bills that Marcus was thumbing through. He felt like grabbing his coat and scrambling for the door, but instead was working though this latest batch of paperwork from a marriage that had produced little else.

An invoice for cooking classes they had taken on their honeymoon. A memory of driving up the coast that clear spring day skittered in and sat on it’s haunches, unannounced, unwanted, and unashamedly mocked his attempts to remain detached. As he sat reading tears began rolling down his cheeks.

Seven years. Seven years had been reduced to photocopies, faxes and emails. The tears were streaming down his face in concert with the rain coursing down the misted windows.

Linda reached over and dabbed his cheeks with a handkerchief. He touched her hand without thinking. She smiled and drew her hand away.

“Are you okay?” she asked.

“Perhaps it’s too late to say I had something in my eye?” he managed a smile.
“You could, but you’d be lying. That would be new for you.” She smiled.
Of all the things he hadn’t done in the marriage, at least this one he could be proud of.

November Course

2008-09-20T09:52:00.002+07:00

Dear Candidates

For those candidates who will be joining our November course;
please confirm (by phone or email) your bookings,pay your deposits -if you haven't already done so - and confirm whether you'll be needing accommodation.

For those joining our December course; please confirm the above no later than mid-November.

Thank you for your time, patience and interest

Yours sincerely,Wayne Duplessis

duplessis.wayne @gmail com
duplez @yahoo com
Please eliminate the spaces.
Note my primitive attempt to de-spam,un-spam, perform a spam-ectomy.

Wise to the word ... September 20,2008

2008-09-20T09:07:00.004+07:00

The boy who stole my heart.

He wore an orange hat
The boy who stole my heart.
I never had the opportunity to learn his name.
Perhaps it's just as well.
How could he ever
Have lived up to the fantasies
Of my day dreams?
No. This way he will always be
The boy who stole my heart.

He'll never call me baby
The boy who stole my heart.
We have no past
No present
No future
Except in the fantasies
Of my day dreams
Where he will always be
The boy who stole my heart.

He's blown me a thousand kisses
The boy who stole my heart.
And on countless nights I have inhaled
His sweet aroma,
As he slept beside me
In the privacy of the fantasies
Of my day dreams
Where he will always be
The boy who stole my heart.

Well, he never was mine
The boy who stole my heart.
I fell crashing down to Earth
When I learnt he loved another.
Now I only strive
To keep alive the fantasies
Of my day dreams
Where he will always be
The boy who stole my heart.

A new selection from Ide Chiahemen Wise

September is here

2008-09-20T00:43:00.000+07:00

September is here
September 19th, 2008

September has come to Surabaya.

Not the bracing chill of autumn,but the pressing heat of the late dry season.

I miss seasons.

I was just remembering how beautiful autumn could be. I look forward to rediscovering the colors and smells of a September morning. I’ve told Emily, the kids and my students about the long walks.

How difficult to communicate the long moments spent admiring the golds, reds and greens and browns. To feel the last warmth of the year on your face.

To stare unashamedly into clear autumn skies. To breathe deep of the cooling breeze. To taste greedily of the clean air.

How to explain looking up at the sky and knowing that this brief, transitory experience has to be embraced and then tucked safely away as winter’s approach is heralded in the ever-darkening skies.

A list of words 08/09/08

2008-09-08T22:54:00.002+07:00

Here's a new list of words

1. Hat
2. Baby
3. Strive
4. Disappoint
5. Orange
6. Blow
7. Past
8. Opportunity
9. Inhale
10. Crash

Enjoy
Create

Midnight flight

2008-09-08T22:43:00.002+07:00

Midnight flight:
In the small hours of the night
She creeps out of bed.
For too long she has lain
Still as a corpse
Not daring to disturb
Her once quick-witted lover
Lying by her side.

Determined not to sleep
What else was there to do
But shuffle through the memories
Of the past three years?
Things hadn’t always been this way.
It wasn’t so difficult to recall the days
When the promise of love had been young.

Before the flames of anger
Began to burn her hopes down.
Growing red and hot.
Spewing fumes that choked and hurt.
Days when she dared voice
Her dreams and fears.
Before she learnt to bite her tongue.

Well, every marriage must endure
The usual wear and tear
But should that include
The odd punch, slap and kick?
Her mother thought so.
Even begged her to stay.
Talk of shame and family dishonour
Kept her shackled to her house of pain.

Oh she had tried to be a good daughter
And wife
But nothing it seems
Could soothe her itch to be free.
Nothing could suppress
The nagging voice inside asking
‘What about me?’

And what about her?
As she begins her flight
So commences her quest to find the answer.
The clip clap of her footsteps
Echo through the dark night.
She won’t turn back now.
The finish line’s in sight.

by Ide Wise

Why join our TESOL Course in Indonesia?

2008-07-21T06:40:00.008+07:00

Why join our TESOL Course in Indonesia?

A weird and wonderful mix of ambition,hope,uncertainty and raw determination.

TEFL Trainees

Why join our TESOL Course Indonesia?

With a wide variety of social and cultural activities, water sports and other activities, vibrant nightlife, delectable Indonesian cuisine, friendly people and close proximity to an abundance of teaching opportunities, Surabaya (and surrounding areas) is sure to have what you are looking for in a learning location.

Where
• Historic Surabaya.
• Close proximity to some of the most amazing beaches in the world.
• Near a thriving nightlife scene and plenty of restaurants, shops and other activities.
Why
• Live in one of the most exciting cities in the world, and be central to a lot of places like Bali, Jakarta and Kalimantan (Borneo).
• Administered by highly trained staff with extensive knowledge of Surabaya and surrounding areas.
• Immerse yourself in an inviting, friendly culture while gaining the experience and knowledge that will enable you to live and work abroad for years to come.
Empower yourself to live, travel and work in the land of amazing grace and beauty.
Who
• Your fellow students come from many countries on many continents.
• Your teacher trainers are some of the most experienced and well trained in the industry.
• Your support staff is extremely helpful, courteous and will assist you with whatever you need.
• The locals are peaceful, friendly people who generally like spending time with foreigners.
How
• Fill out an application form and take that next step towards learning amidst the big city buzz and excitement of Surabaya.
How Much (Fees for TEFL Course?)
• $1,590 (including accommodation)
• $1,490 (excluding accommodation)
Join the TESOL Course Surabaya. You’ll work hard, and you’ll be prepared to Teach English Abroad.
So why wait, get this TEFL Certification now.
Note:Local circumstances and extras may change without notice
This TEFL International Course conducted by a separate company working as a subcontractor of TEFL International and is not a non-profit organization.

Sendang Biru(Blue Lagoon) … East Java,Indonesia

Your certificate is internationally recognized.

Tefl in China …local teacher training in Zhuhai,China

Faq’s

Visas: Visas are required by all foreigners entering Indonesia although, and can be acquired upon entry.

Once you arrive in Indonesia immigration forms will be available at the airport. For $25 USD you will receive a one month tourist visas. Longer visas have to be obtained outside the country. Visas are available from Indonesian embassies and consulates in most countries.

Health risks: We will keep you updated as to any outstanding health issues.

Time: GMT/UTC plus eight hours (the whole of Indonesia is set to Beijing time).

Electricity: 220V, 50 AC; plugs can be three-pronged angled, three-pronged round, two flat pins or two narrow round pins.

Weights & measures: Metric

Banking
Indonesia uses Rupiah for currency. (see exchange rate)Credit cards are becoming more common in Indonesia, but cash remains the preferred form of payment. You can access funds from your home accounts using Cirrus and Visa Plus ATM cards in the bank machines of larger local banks.
You can transfer money from just about any bank in Indonesia to your own bank at home. You can get a money order or electronically transfer up to 100% of your salary.
Opening an account is very easy. Once you have your Kitas(Work Visa) and registration card, you can open your account.
All you need are the proper documents, which include an employment statement provided by the school , passport, residence card, and a copy of your contract.

Banks include:

BCA Bank Central Asia

HSBC(Hong Kong bank)

Citi Bank

and many more

If you don’t have an account Western Union is widely available here.

Communications

If you don’t have your own computer Internet cafes(Warnets) are readily available.

Generally clean- with a variety of services, from printing to scanning, available.

International calls can be made easily from your home or from a Wartel(a telephone center)that has facilities for local,national and international calls.

Faxes can usually be sent from a wartel,if not your school should have this facility.

Shopping

Shopping is one of the major pastimes in Indonesia. If you are an enthusiastic shopper, you will fit right in. You can shop at street stalls, some of the largest open markets in the world, big department stores, and small specialty shops. Whether your looking to shop in an air-conditioned supermarket or mall, or looking to rough it in a more traditional market, you’ll find electronics, t-shirts, handicrafts or souvenirs. There are better bargains to be had in the markets, especially with custom-made goods, leather items, knit shirts, and tennis shoes, and knock offs. Don’t be afraid to haggle.

Clothes

Teachers always have ideas about what to bring to Indonesia. Shoes were most frequently mentioned - in the form of sturdy walking shoes, wide-sized shoes, and warm boots. For some overall advice, if you are happy with the shoes you have, bring enough to last your sojourn. Don’t count on finding the same thing in Indonesia (especially good quality for reasonable prices). The only exception is athletic shoes; sometimes these are cheaper in Indonesia.

With regard to all clothing, “Western large sizes” can be difficult to find, especially for women, and extra large sizes are non-existent. Women may have difficulty finding larger sizes undergarments. However, if you would like custom-made clothing at affordable prices, Indonesia is a great place to obtain them.

Food

Indonesia has restaurants. By and large, they sell Indonesian food, but there are alternatives as well. Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Korean and Western foods are available, but relatively expensive. American fast food chains are here. Some hotels and restaurants offer American, French, and Italian food. Vegetarian restaurants are few and far between, though they do exist. Most Chinese food contains meat and/or seafood or is cooked with meat broth, but the amounts used are small and it’s easy to ask for no meat.

"Generally, people acquire a taste for Indonesian food; if not, they eat Chinese,Korean,Japanese or fast food and fantasize about what’s not available.” Bottled water is cheap and many people have it delivered to their homes.
If you plan to cook Western food in Indonesia,herbs and spices are now more available than ever before. Red and black pepper, garlic powder, ginger, and cinnamon are easily obtainable. Many Western items are available as special imports, but they are expensive. A couple of local places even stock fixings for Tacos. If you are used to limiting your intake of salt, sugar, or saturated fats, you will find it more difficult in Indonesia. Both Indonesian and Chinese food can be quite tasty, and oily, and fatty and salty. In moderate amounts it may even be healthy.

If you are vegetarian you should bring yeast extract tablets with you if you use them, or any form of vitamin tablets. Fruit is not that expensive. Vegetables are cheaper. Being unhealthy is the most expensive.

Fast food is readily available. Pizza Hut, McDonalds,Wendy’s,KFC, A&W and Doner Kebab are the big names

Personal Items

Most of the necessities are available in some form, including many locally-made versions of North American brands.
Also, if you are fond of using name brand, over-the-counter medications (e.g., Tylenol, Benadryl, Rolaids), bring them with you. Those remedies for diarrhea and hacking coughs are especially useful. Contact Lenses: Bausch and Lomb, Coopervision, and local brands of contact lenses are available. Disposable contact lenses can also be found. Alcon (Flexcare, Preflex) and Bausch and Lomb products are available at some pharmacies, but usually though the optical stores. These products usually run 150-200% of U.S. prices.

Chinese brands of enzyme tablets are available, but their imported counterparts are expensive. Other product lines tend to be more widely avail able and less expensive. Many teachers have been quoted as saying, “Oh, I wish I had brought … with me.” This is usually in reference to board games, computers, greeting cards, novels, and craft materials (e.g., knitting, and cross-stitch).

Some instructors bring enough personal items to last a few months and have the rest shipped to them. However, mail can be slow and sometimes gets lost.

Teaching Materials

If you have personal materials that you are able to bring with you, do so. While there are bookstores in Indonesia with sections, they are usually quite expensive, since the majority of these items are imported. Especially useful are game ideas as well as activities that can be transferred across any subject area and level of ability. Most schools have such games as Scrabble and Word Up available for use in the classroom, but quantities are limited and tend to get used often.

Postal Services

Indonesian mail service is less than good, and rates can be more expensive than North American postal service rates. Airmail to North America usually takes four to ten days, but delays are not uncommon. Surface mail can take as long as two or three months.

Registered mail and express mail services EMS, as well as private services (e.g., DHL, Federal Express) are also available. It is best to have mail sent to your institute address rather than your home address.

Cost Of Living

Shopping:
Rice 1 kilo 15,000 RUPIAH
Pasta packet imported 12,000 RUPIAH
Orange Juice 1 lt. 16,000 RUPIAH
Coffee jar instant 30,000 RUPIAH
Tea box of bags 30,000 RUPIAH
Can of Coke 3-5,000 RUPIAH
Beer 3-10,000 RUPIAH
Chicken fillets 1 kilo 20,000 RUPIAH
Sliced ham 8 slices 60,000 RUPIAH
Sliced bread half loaf 4,000 RUPIAH
Baguette 9,000 RUPIAH
Pastry 10-15,000 RUPIAH
Instant noodles 2-5,000 RUPIAH
Chocolate bar (western) 10,000 RUPIAH+

Transport:
MiniBus 2,000 RUPIAH
Taxi 4,000 RUPIAH+ 1,000 RUPIAH per Km
Minimum charges(pickup on street) 5,000 RUPIAH (Telephone request) 10,000 RUPIAH
Train to Jakarta 60,000RUPIAH (single)

Train to Yojyakarta 30,000 RUPIAH (single)

Train to Banyuwanyi (near Bali) 50,000 RUPIAH (single)
Flight to Jakarta 500,000 RUPIAH (one-way)

Flight to Bali 500,000 RUPIAH (one-way)

Eating Out:
Local Lunch Box (rice, meat and two veg) 5,000-10,000 RUPIAH
McDonalds (burger, large fries and coke) 20,000 Rp
Chinese Restaurant (3 dishes + rice for 2) 30,000 – 50,000 RUPIAH
KFC 30,000 RUPIAH+

Drinking:
Beer (depending on brand and venue) 15,000-40,000 RUPIAH

In the supermarket

Bottled Local Beer 10,000-15,000 RUPIAH
Canned Local Beer 8,000-13,000 RUPIAH
Orange Juice 30-40 RUPIAH

Recreation

Most of Indonesia’s sightseeing attractions are accessible to the dedicated traveler. Singapore, Malaysia, or Hong Kong are not out of reach.

There are many open air theaters and cultural sites where individual performers and groups appear, especially in Jakarta. Indonesia has an active traditional theatrical and musical community.

Home Entertainment

Television
A few good local stations. Trans TV is a local favorite as it has two English-language movies every night. Cable isn’t needed for local channels. A cheap rabbit ears device is enough. Cable is available for those who need ESPN, Star movies/sports, HBO or Discovery channel.

Radio

There is at least one English language radio station.

Swimming Pools

Swimming is popular in Indonesia. There are a lot of public pools and most fitness clubs and hotels have nice facilities.

Hiking

Indonesia is such a mountainous country that hiking is always an option. There are a number of trails and passes that you can explore. Early morning is the best time.

Fitness Clubs

There are some private health and sports clubs.

Atlas, Tresor, Celebrity Fitness

Books, newspapers magazines and videos

Bookstores

Gramedia, Trimedia and Gunung Agung all have English language sections. Sogo supermarket has a fairly swank bookstore.
Bring a couple of novels and swap with friends.

Newspapers and Magazines

Time, Newsweek, the Economist, GQ, Esquire, Premiere and a few other magazines are available in Indonesia for the English only speaker. Don’t expect to find Playboy or Penthouse here.

A daily newspaper, The Jakarta Post, published in Jarkata but distributed daily in Surabaya…

Movies
Movie going is made easy in Indonesia by the 21 Chain of Cinemas.

Videos

You can rent a wide selection of new and old movies on VCD or DVD. In some stores you will find a large sampling of Chinese,Hong Kong, and Indonesian. The bulk of the selection, old or new, is American.

Nightlife

Lots of bars, discos and cafés and restaurants are available.

Dining Out
There are also a number of nightclubs, discos, café, bars and karaoke clubs in downtown Surabaya and the surrounding areas.
Leisure time in the various cities can be spent in a number of ways. You could go native and take to the shopping streets; bowling is another very popular pastime; there are bars and discos to dance and drink the night away in and there are restaurants of every denomination. The more up-market western bars and restaurants can be expensive and dining in these on a regular basis would be a strain on your purse strings to say the least. However, there are other western eateries in which one can eat at affordable prices, such as 80RUPIAH per head inclusive of beer.

Generally beers are quite steep in nightclubs at a cost of around 30-40,000 RUPIAH and wine is very expensive and can cost as much as 60RUPIAH per glass. However, eating in local restaurants and drinking Bintang beer is very affordable and living in this way you’ll find that your wages will go a long way. A large lunch or dinner in a local mid-range restaurant will cost from 20-30,000 RUPIAH per person including beer or a soft drink.

Coffee Shops

Coffee shops and cafés are a major hangout for Indonesians. You’ll find these by exploring, or by asking older students,staff or teachers.

Religious Services

A number of different religions are represented in Indonesia.Five are officially recognized; Islam, Hinduism,Buddhism, Catholicism and Christianity are the two most common. Yes those last two are considered quite distinct here. Mosques,temples and churches abound and some services are available in English.

Safety

Applicants for teaching/or study positions in Indonesia are advised to contact their Embassy. The Embassy should have an information service for people considering an extended visit to a foreign country.

Getting around

Public transportation is inexpensive. Indonesia is accessible, and has a fair amount of cheap taxis and buses. Transportation within Indonesia is cheap and convenient. Nearly all areas within Indonesia are connected by a network of air service, trains, boats, ferries and buses.

Indonesian Lessons
There are a number of schools and there are private lessons available. Ask around.

Martial Arts
Do you want to study Silat, Tae Kwon Do, Wushu, Kung Fu or Tai Chi. View it as alternative fitness or cultural enrichment. Take a chance.

Embassies

Applicants for teaching positions in Indonesia are encouraged to contact their Embassy, which has an information service for people considering an extended visit to a foreign country.

Medical Care

You’ll always here stories about how bad doctors are, even at home. Indonesian medical care and dental care is clean, prompt, courteous and not at all expensive

Tefl Indonesia is the Indonesian Branch of TEFL International
We offer an intensive TESOL training program
The course runs one month (120 hours). It’s four weeks long, Monday to Friday and starts at 9:00am ending most nights at 5:00pm
It includes classroom inputs on Grammar, phonology, structure, writing, lesson planning, choosing materials, language awareness and evaluating students. It also includes in class teaching practice. These practices are observed and evaluated and trainees are expected to reach a level of competence at the end of the course.
Detailed course information
http://www.teflindonesia.com/course.shtml

* Fill out an Application Form and take that next step towards learning amidst the big city buzz and excitement of Surabaya.

How much are the fees for a TESOL Course?

* $1,590 (including accommodation)
* $1,490 (excluding accommodation)

As far as currency conversion …check out http://www.xecurrency.com
It’s bank rates are fairly accurate and you can get a daily update on currency fluctuations.

Course Information

LOCATION AND COURSE INFORMATION Surabaya,EastJava Indonesia

Final Payment

The balance of your course fees can be paid by credit card (but only Mastercard and Visa), cash or traveler’s checks in USD. All accounts must be settled by the first day of the course. Please note – if you choose to pay cash in Indonesian Rupiah, the associated exchange rate to USD will be determined by the Course Director as advised by the exchange rate offered at www.xe.com/ucc.

Visa and Passport Information

All visitors to Indonesia are required to carry a passport valid for at least six months after arrival date. Visitors to Indonesia from the United Kingdom, North America, Australia and New Zealand can stay in Indonesia for a maximum of 30 days on a tourist visa. This can not be extended without leaving the country. Citizens from all other countries should contact their local consulate to obtain current travel regulations.

For more information on obtaining visas please visit.

*As this information is subject to change at any time, we advise everyone to contact your local consulate for current travel regulations prior to planning your trip.

Working in Indonesia

If you are planning on seeking work in Indonesia, please bring along your original diploma and transcripts from College, Technical School or High School, as well as a copy of your birth certificate.

There is great demand for qualified TEFL teachers throughout the world. TEFL International provides the following services in this area:

Contact information and details of schools in the region of your choice

Contact information and details of selected schools worldwide

Details of selected vacancies available worldwide

Details of the most popular web sites of TEFL vacancies and information

Internet access for job searches and on-line applications

Sessions covering CV preparation, advice about applications and interviews and all available information about teaching conditions in the trainees preferred destinations.

TEFL International has been very successful in assisting our course graduates locate teaching job opportunities and vacancies.

Getting to Surabaya

There is an international airport in Surabaya welcoming direct flights from Europe, Singapore and Hong Kong, although more available and inexpensive flights go to Jakarta. From Jakarta, many airlines run inexpensive flights directly to Surabaya, offering breathtaking views of Indonesia’s landscape. These flights cost less than 50 USD one way. Buses and trains do run from Jakarta to Surabaya, and the twelve-hour ride will cost approximately 10 USD. The train station is just outside of the center of Surabaya. A taxi can take you to the school.

Transportation upon arrival

Your accommodation is available starting on the Thursday before the course begins through the Monday following the final week. We hope you will plan to arrive in Surabaya by Saturday at the latest, as this will give you a chance to relax and get accustomed to your surroundings before the course begins.

On Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday prior to the course start date, between 8am and 8pm, we provide transportation from Surabaya airport to your local accommodation. If you are traveling to Surabaya by bus during these days, call us prior to boarding the bus () and we will pick you up at your scheduled arrival time at the bus station. For those arriving at any other time please contact us for further details.

Why join our TESOL Course in Surabaya, Indonesia?

With a wide variety of social and cultural activities, water sports and other activities, vibrant nightlife, delectable Indonesian cuisine, friendly people and close proximity to an abundance of teaching opportunities, Surabaya(and surrounding areas) is sure to have what you are looking for in a learning location.

i Tefl Training in Indonesia

i About Tefl Indonesia

i Photos1

i Photos of Madura

i Photo Gallery ... pics from a few of TEFL Indo's courses

i Apply
Click here to fill out an application

i Photos2

i Photos3

i Videos of the course

i FAQ about getting Certified

i Links

i Living in Indonesia:

Contents of the TEFL course

i Nightlife

Where

View
Find us on Google Maps
Located right in Surabaya and near some of the most beautiful beaches and scenery in the world, our TESOL Course Indonesia center is, if not in paradise, at least next door to it.

Indonesia, Surabaya

Historic Surabaya.
Surabaya is an ancient city, with a rich history.
It's a tale that has been written in the blood, hopes and accomplishments of the amazing people who have lived here.
From the rich tapestry of Javanese culture, to the vibrant Madurese impact, and on to the interweaving of Indian, Arabic and Chinese cultures ... Surabaya has always been a meeting place for imagination and destiny.
A major shipping center, a transit port, and an international gateway ... Indonesia's second-largest city, and the capital of East Java, has a rich history and an exciting present waiting to be discovered.
From poets to princes; from revolutionaries to teachers; Surabaya is truly the City of heroes.
A few hours from some of the most amazing beaches in the world.
Near a thriving nightlife scene and plenty of restaurants, shops
and other activities.

Why
Live in one of the most exciting cities in the world,
and be central to a lot of places
like Bali, Jakarta and Kalimantan (Borneo).
Administered by highly trained staff with extensive knowledge of Surabaya and surrounding areas.
Immerse yourself in an inviting, friendly culture while gaining the experience and knowledge that will enable you to live and work abroad for years to come.
Empower yourself to live, travel and work in the land of amazing grace and beauty.

For those looking for an alternate location;
we are available to host the course in

Kuta(Bali),

Yogyakarta(Central Java) and

Jakarta(Indonesia's capital city).

Welcome to TEFL Indonesia

Top Ten Reasons to TEFL

Who
Your fellow students come from many countries on
many continents.
Your teacher trainers are some of the most
experienced and well trained in the industry.

Your support staff is extremely helpful,
courteous and will assist you with whatever you need.
The locals are peaceful, friendly people who genuinely enjoy spending time with foreigners.

How
Fill out an application form and take that next step towards learning amidst the big city buzz and excitement of Surabaya.

Tefl International Indonesia, Surabaya:
All TEFL International courses meet current international standards for a 120 hour course (including over 6 hours of observed teaching practice and over 100 hours of classroom time).
Our courses maximize the cultural experiences of our students and provide multi-cultural interaction and learning opportunities for those in need.

Fees for TEFL Course
$1,500 USD (excluding accommodation)
$120 - $250 USD (cost of accommodation)

TESOL Certificate:
Minimum Requirements.
Age: 20 Years.
Education: Capable of producing university-level work

English: Fluent or near-native fluency
TEFL International's TESOL certificate is a four-week intensive course, teaching students how to teach English as a second language.
TEFL International has been in operation since 1998 and has 21 schools operating around the world.
You do not have to have a BA to take this certificate course.

How much will I make?

First year teachers in Indonesia typically make 8,000,000 to 10,000,000 Rupiah a month.
Plus housing, airfare and year-end bonuses

Click here for job and resource links

Please note that this certificate is internationally recognized and accepted ... so you could work anywhere

This is a recent letter from a satisfied school.

"Hi Wayne, This is Eric Manning, DoS at EF Yogyakarta. We are always looking out for quality teachers here in Jogja, and I would be grateful if you could display the enclosed ad on your school noticeboard. One of your graduates, Nikita Wong recently joined the team here and I would be very interested to hear from other students of similar quality.
Thank you in advance for your assistance.
Regards
Eric Manning"

View EF Yogyakarta's employment notice here

Join the TESOL Course in Surabaya.
TEFL Certification Courses in Surabaya, Indonesia

Note:Local circumstances and extras may change without notice
This TEFL International Course conducted by a
separate company working as a subcontractor of TEFL International and is not a non-profit organization.

With contacts across the globe, we offer you the opportunity to obtain an internationally recognized Teachers Training Certificate while basking in paradise.
We are where you want to Teach English or begin your English teaching experience.
We are validated and moderated by our board of academic advisers that include many of the biggest names in the industry, and also include dozens of local language professionals in our locations around the world. So you can be assured of the highest standards from us.
Wherever and whenever you take one of our certification for Teachers Training you can be assured it will be quality.

TEFL means Teaching English as a Foreign Language, and it's a certification that is required by learning institutions to teach abroad. The current demand for teachers is huge.
Upon completion you will have the credentials required to work or Teach English Abroad as a teacher in non-native English speaking countries.
Once certified you will be well on your way to experiencing foreign cultures and languages and embarking upon your new career as an English teacher teaching abroad or home.
No previous teaching experience or specialist qualifications are required.
The only requirement is fluency in English.

Get certified and teach English.
Teach English and see the world
TEFL Certification Courses in Surabaya, Indonesia

All TEFL International courses meet current international standards

Over six(6)hours of observed teaching practice and over 100 hours of classroom time).
Our courses maximize the cultural experiences of our students and provide multi-cultural interaction and learning opportunities for those in need.

TEFL International's TESOL certificate is a four week, 120 hours intensive course, teaching students how to teach English as a second language.
TEFL International has been in operation for 9 years and has 21 schools operating around the world.

Joining the TEFL course in Indonesia, Surabaya

Also indicate when you'll be arriving so we can have accommodation prepared.

Call Tefl Indonesia and ask about getting certified

Call or text +62 081 703 284 155
Call or text +62 087 851 964 031

Contact Tefl Indonesia

Indonesia, Surabaya

TEFL Course Schedule
(TESOL Certification)

Calendar for 2011
Course dates for 2011
3 January - 28 January
31 January - 25 February
28 February - 25 March
4 April - 29 April
2 May - 27 May
6 June - 1 July
4 July - 29 July
1 August - 26 August
5 September - 30 September
3 October - 28 October
31 October - 25 November
28 November - 23 December

Please contact us with any more questions

The graduating class from March 2010

The graduating class, and their trainer, from March 2010

Tefl Indonesia

For any further queries please contact TEFL Admin

Our Contact numbers - Indonesia (Surabaya)
Email	Netty Poernomo Wayne Duplessis Admin Tefl Indo
MSN ID	duper
Yahoo ID	Email Tefl Indonesia


Skype	wayne.duplessis
	TEFL International Indonesia Here is the contact information: Adryan Sutanto Telephone: +62 081 703284155 Wayne Duplessis Telephone: +62 087 851 964 031 (call or text) Netty Poernomo Course Director Telephone: +62 31 732 0973 Fax: +62 31 732 0974 Campus Address: TEFL International Indonesia Raya Darmo Permai 111 KAV 15 BLOK C1 C2 Surabaya, Jawa Timur, 60241 Indonesia Telephone: +62 31 732 0973 Fax: +62 31 732 0974

Important Note

Regardless of your arrival day and time, we ask that you assist us in preparing for all arrivals by providing us with your travel arrangements via email. Please do so as soon as your travel plans are confirmed and at least one week prior to your scheduled arrival time. Help us help you by providing this information!

Early Arrivals

If you wish to arrive in Surabaya before the Thursday when your accommodation is available, TEFL International can provide assistance in finding reasonably priced and well located rooms.

Accommodation details

Accommodation in Surabaya will consist of a private room (unless otherwise requested) located either near the school or in an apartment within a five-minute walk to the school. All rooms have a private bath and are clean, comfortable and adequately furnished. All rooms are also located within easy reach of various restaurants, bars and entertainment sites.

Bedding is provided; however, you will need to bring your own towels. We provide free, weekly cleaning service during the course for all rooms, and laundry service is available at a nominal fee.

You are more than welcome to invite friends or family members to stay in your room during the course - just please let us know as soon as possible. There is a minimal extra charge per additional person per room.

Please be assured that any special requests or requirements regarding accommodation will be taken into account, and TEFL International will make every effort to oblige.

School Location and Facilities

The school building is located in the heart of Surabaya Town, offering easy access to exploring all the best beaches, entertainment and tourist sites the city has to offer. The building is spacious and comfortable, with large classrooms, whiteboards and complete resource materials.

The school phone, fax and internet facilities are available for trainee use with prior approval from the School Manager. Outgoing mail can be left at the front desk and will be posted the following morning. We simply charge you the same price that the post office charges us.

Training Schedule

The first class will take place Monday morning at 9:30 a.m., at which time we will provide a complete course schedule. Sessions generally run between 9:30 a.m. and 8.30 p.m. with regular breaks.

There will be a welcome meal provided by the school on the first day of the course.

Trainees are expected to attend all input and other sessions included on the schedule unless they are sick and require medical treatment. This is particularly important for Teaching Practice (TP) as it is very difficult to arrange alternate TP times.

Course Dress and Requirements

For all input and tutorial sessions at the training location, there are no specific dress requirements, yet we ask that you be mindful of your peers and respectful of the fact that you are a visitor in another country.

During Teaching Practice, however, there are specific dress requirements that adhere to the local working culture and basic ideas of professionalism. All trainees are expected to dress “casually smart” according to the following guidelines:

Women:

Shoulders should be covered; sleeveless shirts are acceptable, but very thin straps or tank tops are not. No low-cut necklines or very short skirts. Bare midriffs must not be visible, even when lifting arms up. Open-toed shoes are acceptable except when visiting local schools.

Men:

Long pants; no raggedy jeans. Short- or long-sleeved shirt with a collar; a tie is not required. Sandals are acceptable, yet closed shoes are preferred and required when visiting local schools. Long hair should be neatly tied back into a pony-tail.

*Note – in the event that we visit local schools for Teaching Practice, please be prepared to dress professionally. Women are to be neatly dressed with covered shoulders and knees, men in long pants and button-down shirts (ties will be provided). Only closed-toed shoes will be acceptable for both women and men. No tennis shoes or jeans, please.

Resources

Please bring a pen and a notebook for taking notes during class. All relevant course books and materials will be provided, and the school has a large resource library for reference.

Photocopying, fax, telephone and internet facilities are available for use by trainees.

Trainee Post-Course Evaluations

Each trainee will be asked to complete a written evaluation form at the end of the course, which will remain anonymous and confidential. These evaluations are aimed to give trainees the opportunity to provide feedback regarding anything to do with the course, trainers, accommodation, and so forth.

In addition, we welcome your open and honest feedback at any stage during the course, so that we can continue to improve the training course and the facilities provided at the training location. Your thoughts are truly invaluable, so please share them!

ABOUT SURABAYA

In-Town Transportation

The easiest way to make your way around surabaya is taxi. When hiring, make certain the taxi has a meter. There is a local bus network that circles the city; however, it is very slow and unreliable. Cars and motorcycles are available for hire locally.

Drinking Water

Tap water is deemed unsafe to drink in Indonesia; therefore, therefore you should only drink bottled water during your stay. Bottled water is very inexpensive and readily available in the school and throughout the city. Ice in hotels and restaurants is always purified and therefore safe.

Shopping

All types of shopping facilities exist in the city – from international supermarkets and department stores to small shops selling local handicrafts and markets selling fresh produce. No doubt you will find plenty to buy in Surabaya!

Local Weather Conditions

The average climate conditions in Surabaya are tropical throughout the year - hot and humid during the day with cool, temperate breezes at night. The local rainy season lasts from October through April. During this time, heavy tropical rains fall mainly in the late afternoon, yet the remainder of the day offers clear skies and stunning sunsets. Daily highs average 30-34ºC in the hottest months, with a nighttime low of 21ºC.

As this description is an average, we highly recommend that you check current weather conditions prior to departure to assist you in your travel preparations.

Get Acquainted!

Beautiful beaches, dramatic scenery, fascinating sights, elephant and rain forest trekking, internationally renowned cuisine, a wide variety of water sports, an intense and pulsating nightlife… Surabaya has something to please everyone! And all can be enjoyed on a very limited budget, so you should never be bored during your free time. Before your arrival, we highly recommend you purchase a descriptive guide book or do some online research to familiarize yourself and get acquainted with Surabaya and all it has to offer. For more information on Surabaya and the country of Indonesia, we recommend the following sites:

Lonely Planet Online www.lonelyplanet.com/destinations/south_east_asia/Indonesia
Surabaya-Guide
Surabaya Tourism
Surabaya Indonesia Travel

Should you have any additional questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Email: n_poernomo@yahoo.com
Yahoo Chat: duplez@yahoo.com
MSN Chat:duper@hotmail.com
Telephone:62 31 731 7352 (Indonesia)

We look forward to welcoming you to Surabaya!

Join the TESOL Course Indonesia, Surabaya. You’ll work hard, and you’ll be prepared to Teach English Abroad.

http://www.teflindonesia.com

Indonesia, Surabaya - TEFL Course Schedule (TESOL Certification)

Calendar for 2011
Course dates for 2011
3 January - 28 January
31 January - 25 February
28 February - 25 March
4 April - 29 April
2 May - 27 May
6 June - 1 July
4 July - 29 July
1 August - 26 August
5 September - 30 September
3 October - 28 October
31 October - 25 November
28 November - 23 December

Please contact us with any more questions

Current effort …working towards a subsidized course and three month placement within Indonesia. Details to follow.

Please contact TEFL Indonesia with any more questions

Try Skype

http://www.skype.com

wayne.duplessis

Why join our TESOL Course Indonesia?

2008-07-20T12:48:00.011+07:00

A weird and wonderful mix of ambition,hope,uncertainty and raw determination.

TEFL Trainees

Why join our TESOL Course Indonesia?

With a wide variety of social and cultural activities, water sports and other activities, vibrant nightlife, delectable Indonesian cuisine, friendly people and close proximity to an abundance of teaching opportunities, Surabaya (and surrounding areas) is sure to have what you are looking for in a learning location.

Where
• Historic Surabaya.
• Close proximity to some of the most amazing beaches in the world.
• Near a thriving nightlife scene and plenty of restaurants, shops and other activities.
Why
• Live in one of the most exciting cities in the world, and be central to a lot of places like Bali, Jakarta and Kalimantan (Borneo).
• Administered by highly trained staff with extensive knowledge of Surabaya and surrounding areas.
• Immerse yourself in an inviting, friendly culture while gaining the experience and knowledge that will enable you to live and work abroad for years to come.
Empower yourself to live, travel and work in the land of amazing grace and beauty.
Who
• Your fellow students come from many countries on many continents.
• Your teacher trainers are some of the most experienced and well trained in the industry.
• Your support staff is extremely helpful, courteous and will assist you with whatever you need.
• The locals are peaceful, friendly people who generally like spending time with foreigners.
How
• Fill out an application form and take that next step towards learning amidst the big city buzz and excitement of Surabaya.
How Much (Fees for TEFL Course?)
• $1,590 (including accommodation)
• $1,490 (excluding accommodation)
Join the TESOL Course Surabaya. You'll work hard, and you'll be prepared to Teach English Abroad.
So why wait, get this TEFL Certification now.
Note:Local circumstances and extras may change without notice
This TEFL International Course conducted by a separate company working as a subcontractor of TEFL International and is not a non-profit organization.

Sendang Biru(Blue Lagoon) ... East Java,Indonesia

Tefl in China ...local teacher training in Zhuhai,China

Faq's

Visas: Visas are required by all foreigners entering Indonesia although, and can be acquired upon entry.

Once you arrive in Indonesia immigration forms will be available at the airport. For $25 USD you will receive a one month tourist visas. Longer visas have to be obtained outside the country. Visas are available from Indonesian embassies and consulates in most countries.

Health risks: Dengue fever, malaria and cholera are all present in Indonesia. Immunization against cholera, hepatitis A and B, and C are good ideas if you decide to live here. We will keep you updated as to any outstanding health issues.

Time: GMT/UTC plus eight hours (the whole of Indonesia is set to Beijing time).

Electricity: 220V, 50 AC; plugs can be three-pronged angled, three-pronged round, two flat pins or two narrow round pins.

Weights & measures: Metric

Banking
Indonesia uses Rupiah for currency. (see exchange rate)Credit cards are becoming more common in Indonesia, but cash remains the preferred form of payment. You can access funds from your home accounts using Cirrus and Visa Plus ATM cards in the bank machines of larger local banks.
You can transfer money from just about any bank in Indonesia to your own bank at home. You can get a money order or electronically transfer up to 100% of your salary.
Opening an account is very easy. Once you have your Kitas(Work Visa) and registration card, you can open your account.
All you need are the proper documents, which include an employment statement provided by the school , passport, residence card, and a copy of your contract.

Banks include:

BCA Bank Central Asia

HSBC(Hong Kong bank)

Citi Bank

and many more

If you don't have an account Western Union is widely available here.

Communications

If you don't have your own computer Internet cafes(Warnets) are readily available.

Generally clean- with a variety of services, from printing to scanning, available.

International calls can be made easily from your home or from a Wartel(a telephone center)that has facilities for local,national and international calls.

Faxes can usually be sent from a wartel,if not your school should have this facility.

Shopping

Shopping is one of the major pastimes in Indonesia. If you are an enthusiastic shopper, you will fit right in. You can shop at street stalls, some of the largest open markets in the world, big department stores, and small specialty shops. Whether your looking to shop in an air-conditioned supermarket or mall, or looking to rough it in a more traditional market, you'll find electronics, t-shirts, handicrafts or souvenirs. There are better bargains to be had in the markets, especially with custom-made goods, leather items, knit shirts, and tennis shoes, and knock offs. Don't be afraid to haggle.

Clothes

Teachers always have ideas about what to bring to Indonesia. Shoes were most frequently mentioned - in the form of sturdy walking shoes, wide-sized shoes, and warm boots. For some overall advice, if you are happy with the shoes you have, bring enough to last your sojourn. Don't count on finding the same thing in Indonesia (especially good quality for reasonable prices). The only exception is athletic shoes; sometimes these are cheaper in Indonesia.

With regard to all clothing, "Western large sizes" can be difficult to find, especially for women, and extra large sizes are non-existent. Women may have difficulty finding larger sizes undergarments. However, if you would like custom-made clothing at affordable prices, Indonesia is a great place to obtain them.

Food

Indonesia has restaurants. By and large, they sell Indonesian food, but there are alternatives as well. Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Korean and Western foods are available, but relatively expensive. American fast food chains are here. Some hotels and restaurants offer American, French, and Italian food. Vegetarian restaurants are few and far between, though they do exist. Most Chinese food contains meat and/or seafood or is cooked with meat broth, but the amounts used are small and it's easy to ask for no meat.

Generally, people acquire a taste for Indonesian food; if not, they eat Chinese,Korean,Japanese or fastfood and fantasize about what's not available." Bottled water is cheap and many teachers have it delivered to their apartments. If you plan to cook Western food in Indonesia, you'll probably want to bring some herbs and spices with you. Red and black pepper, garlic powder, ginger, and cinnamon are easily obtainable. Many Western items are available as special imports, but they are expensive. If you are used to limiting your intake of salt, sugar, or saturated fats, you will find it more difficult in Indonesia. Both Indonesian and Chinese food can be quite tasty, and oily, and fatty and salty. In moderate amounts it may even be healthy.

If you are vegetarian you should bring yeast extract tablets with you if you use them, or any form of vitamin tablets. Fruit is not that expensive. Vegetables are cheaper. Being unhealthy is the most expensive.

Fast food is readily available. Pizza Hut,McDonalds,Wendy's,KFC,A&W and Doner Kebab are the big names

Personal Items

Most of the necessities are available in some form, including many locally-made versions of North American brands.
Also, if you are fond of using name brand, over-the-counter medications (e.g., Tylenol, Benadryl, Rolaids), bring them with you. Those remedies for diarrhea and hacking coughs are especially useful. Contact Lenses: Bausch and Lomb, Coopervision, and local brands of contact lenses are available. Disposable contact lenses can also be found. Alcon (Flexcare, Preflex) and Bausch and Lomb products are available at some pharmacies, but usually though the optical stores. These products usually run 150-200% of U.S. prices.

Chinese brands of enzyme tablets are available, but their imported counterparts are expensive. Other product lines tend to be more widely avail able and less expensive. Many teachers have been quoted as saying, "Oh, I wish I had brought ... with me." This is usually in reference to board games, computers, greeting cards, novels, and craft materials (e.g., knitting, and cross-stitch).

Some instructors bring enough personal items to last a few months and have the rest shipped to them. However, mail can be slow and sometimes gets lost.

Teaching Materials

If you have personal materials that you are able to bring with you, do so. While there are bookstores in Indonesia with sections, they are usually quite expensive, since the majority of these items are imported. Especially useful are game ideas as well as activities that can be transferred across any subject area and level of ability. Most schools have such games as Scrabble and Word Up available for use in the classroom, but quantities are limited and tend to get used often.

Postal Services

Indonesian mail service is less than good, and rates can be more expensive than North American postal service rates. Airmail to North America usually takes four to ten days, but delays are not uncommon. Surface mail can take as long as two or three months.

Registered mail and express mail services EMS, as well as private services (e.g., DHL, Federal Express) are also available. It is best to have mail sent to your institute address rather than your home address.

Cost Of Living

Shopping:
Rice 1 kilo 15,000 RUPIAH
Pasta packet imported 12,000 RUPIAH
Orange Juice 1 lt. 16,000 RUPIAH
Coffee jar instant 30,000 RUPIAH
Tea box of bags 30,000 RUPIAH
Can of Coke 3-5,000 RUPIAH
Beer 3-10,000 RUPIAH
Chicken fillets 1 kilo 20,000 RUPIAH
Sliced ham 8 slices 60,000 RUPIAH
Sliced bread half loaf 4,000 RUPIAH
Baguette 9,000 RUPIAH
Pastry 10-15,000 RUPIAH
Instant noodles 2-5,000 RUPIAH
Chocolate bar (western) 10,000 RUPIAH+

Transport:
MiniBus 2,000 RUPIAH
Taxi 4,000 RUPIAH+ 1,000 RUPIAH per Km
Minimum charges(pickup on street) 5,000 RUPIAH (Telephone request) 10,000 RUPIAH
Train to Jakarta 60,000RUPIAH (single)

Train to Yojyakarta 30,000 RUPIAH (single)

Train to Banyuwanyi (near Bali) 50,000 RUPIAH (single)
Flight to Jakarta 500,000 RUPIAH (one-way)

Flight to Bali 500,000 RUPIAH (one-way)

Eating Out:
Local Lunch Box (rice, meat and two veg) 5,000-10,000 RUPIAH
McDonalds (burger, large fries and coke) 20,000 Rp
Chinese Restaurant (3 dishes + rice for 2) 30,000 – 50,000 RUPIAH
KFC 30,000 RUPIAH+

Drinking:
Beer (depending on brand and venue) 15,000-40,000 RUPIAH

In the supermarket

Bottled Local Beer 10,000-15,000 RUPIAH
Canned Local Beer 8,000-13,000 RUPIAH
Orange Juice 30-40 RUPIAH

Recreation

Most of Indonesia's sightseeing attractions are accessible to the dedicated traveler. Singapore, Malaysia, or Hong Kong are not out of reach.

There are many open air theaters and cultural sites where individual performers and groups appear, especially in Jakarta. Indonesia has an active traditional theatrical and musical community.

Home Entertainment

Television
A few good local stations. Trans TV is a local favorite as it has two English-language movies every night. Cable isn't needed for local channels. A cheap rabbit ears device is enough. Cable is available for those who need ESPN, Star movies/sports, HBO or Discovery channel.

Radio

There is at least one English language radio station.

Swimming Pools

Swimming is popular in Indonesia. There are a lot of public pools and most fitness clubs and hotels have nice facilities.

Hiking

Indonesia is such a mountainous country that hiking is always an option. There are a number of trails and passes that you can explore. Early morning is the best time.

Fitness Clubs

There are some private health and sports clubs.

Atlas, Tresor, Celebrity Fitness

Books, newspapers magazines and videos

Bookstores

Gramedia, Trimedia and Gunung Agung all have English language sections. Sogo supermarket has a fairly swank bookstore.
Bring a couple of novels and swap with friends.

Newspapers and Magazines

Time, Newsweek, the Economist, GQ, Esquire, Premiere and a few other magazines are available in Indonesia for the English only speaker. Don't expect to find Playboy or Penthouse here.

A daily newspaper, The Jakarta Post, published in Jarkata but distributed daily in Surabaya...

Movies
Movie going is made easy in Indonesia by the 21 Chain of Cinemas.

Videos

You can rent a wide selection of new and old movies on VCD or DVD. In some stores you will find a large sampling of Chinese,Hong Kong, and Indonesian. The bulk of the selection, old or new, is American.

Nightlife

Lots of bars, discos and cafés and restaurants are available.

Dining Out
There are also a number of nightclubs, discos, café, bars and karaoke clubs in downtown Surabaya and the surrounding areas.
Leisure time in the various cities can be spent in a number of ways. You could go native and take to the shopping streets; bowling is another very popular pastime; there are bars and discos to dance and drink the night away in and there are restaurants of every denomination. The more up-market western bars and restaurants can be expensive and dining in these on a regular basis would be a strain on your purse strings to say the least. However, there are other western eateries in which one can eat at affordable prices, such as 80RUPIAH per head inclusive of beer.

Generally beers are quite steep in nightclubs at a cost of around 30-40,000 RUPIAH and wine is very expensive and can cost as much as 60RUPIAH per glass. However, eating in local restaurants and drinking Bintang beer is very affordable and living in this way you'll find that your wages will go a long way. A large lunch or dinner in a local mid-range restaurant will cost from 20-30,000 RUPIAH per person including beer or a soft drink.

Coffee Shops

Coffee shops and café are a major hangout for Chinese. You'll find these by exploring, or by asking older students,staff or teachers.

Religious Services

A number of different religions are represented in Indonesia.Five are officially recognized; Islam, Hinduism,Buddhism, Catholicism and Christianity are the two most common. Yes those last two are consided quite distict here. Mosques,temples and churches abound and some services are available in English.

Safety

Applicants for teaching/or study positions in Indonesia are advised to contact their Embassy. The Embassy should have an information service for people considering an extended visit to a foreign country.

Getting around

Public transportation is inexpensive. Indonesia is accessible, and has a fair amount of cheap taxis and buses. Transportation within Indonesia is cheap and convenient. Nearly all areas within Indonesia are connected by a network of air service, trains, boats, ferries and buses.

Indonesian Lessons
There are a number of schools and there are private lessons available. Ask around.

Martial Arts
Do you want to study Silat, Tae Kwon Do, Wushu, Kung Fu or Tai Chi. View it as alternative fitness or cultural enrichment. Take a chance.

Embassies

Applicants for teaching positions in Indonesia are encouraged to contact their Embassy, which has an information service for people considering an extended visit to a foreign country.

Medical Care

You'll always here stories about how bad doctors are, even at home. Indonesian medical care and dental care is clean, prompt, courteous and not at all expensive

Tefl Indonesia is the Indonesian Branch of TEFL International
We offer an intensive TESOL training program
The course runs one month (120 hours). It's four weeks long, Monday to Friday and starts at 9:00am ending most nights at 5:00pm
It includes classroom inputs on Grammar, phonology, structure, writing, lesson planning, choosing materials, language awareness and evaluating students. It also includes in class teaching practice. These practices are observed and evaluated and trainees are expected to reach a level of competence at the end of the course.
Detailed course information
http://www.teflindonesia.com/course.shtml

* Fill out an Application Form and take that next step towards learning amidst the big city buzz and excitement of Surabaya.

How much are the fees for a TESOL Course?

* $1,590 (including accommodation)
* $1,490 (excluding accommodation)

As far as currency conversion ...check out http://www.xecurrency.com
It's bank rates are fairly accurate and you can get a daily update on currency fluctuations.

Course Information

LOCATION AND COURSE INFORMATION Surabaya,EastJava Indonesia

Final Payment

The balance of your course fees can be paid by credit card (but only Mastercard and Visa), cash or traveler's checks in USD. All accounts must be settled by the first day of the course. Please note – if you choose to pay cash in Indonesian Rupiah, the associated exchange rate to USD will be determined by the Course Director as advised by the exchange rate offered at www.xe.com/ucc.

Visa and Passport Information

All visitors to Indonesia are required to carry a passport valid for at least six months after arrival date. Visitors to Indonesia from the United Kingdom, North America, Australia and New Zealand can stay in Indonesia for a maximum of 30 days on a tourist visa. This can not be extended without leaving the country. Citizens from all other countries should contact their local consulate to obtain current travel regulations.

For more information on obtaining visas please visit.

*As this information is subject to change at any time, we advise everyone to contact your local consulate for current travel regulations prior to planning your trip.

Working in Indonesia

If you are planning on seeking work in Indonesia, please bring along your original diploma and transcripts from College, Technical School or High School, as well as a copy of your birth certificate.

There is great demand for qualified TEFL teachers throughout the world. TEFL International provides the following services in this area:

Contact information and details of schools in the region of your choice

Contact information and details of selected schools worldwide

Details of selected vacancies available worldwide

Details of the most popular web sites of TEFL vacancies and information

Internet access for job searches and on-line applications

Sessions covering CV preparation, advice about applications and interviews and all available information about teaching conditions in the trainees preferred destinations.

TEFL International has been very successful in assisting our course graduates locate teaching job opportunities and vacancies.

Getting to Surabaya

There is an international airport in Surabaya welcoming direct flights from Europe, Singapore and Hong Kong, although more available and inexpensive flights go to Jakarta. From Jakarta, many airlines run inexpensive flights directly to Surabaya, offering breathtaking views of Indonesia's landscape. These flights cost less than 50 USD one way. Buses and trains do run from Jakarta to Surabaya, and the twelve-hour ride will cost approximately 10 USD. The train station is just outside of the center of Surabaya. A taxi can take you to the school.

Transportation upon arrival

Your accommodation is available starting on the Thursday before the course begins through the Monday following the final week. We hope you will plan to arrive in Surabaya by Saturday at the latest, as this will give you a chance to relax and get accustomed to your surroundings before the course begins.

On Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday prior to the course start date, between 8am and 8pm, we provide transportation from Surabaya airport to your local accommodation. If you are traveling to Surabaya by bus during these days, call us prior to boarding the bus () and we will pick you up at your scheduled arrival time at the bus station. For those arriving at any other time please contact us for further details.

Here is the contact information:

Netty Poernomo
Course Director
n_poernomo@yahoo.com
telp: 62 31 731 7352
fax:62 31 734 6323

Why join our TESOL Course in Surabaya, Indonesia?

With a wide variety of social and cultural activities, water sports and other activities, vibrant nightlife, delectable Indonesian cuisine, friendly people and close proximity to an abundance of teaching opportunities, Surabaya(and surrounding areas) is sure to have what you are looking for in a learning location.

i Tefl Training in Indonesia

i About Tefl Indonesia

i Photos1

i Photos of Madura

i Photo Gallery ... pics from a few of TEFL Indo's courses

i Apply
Click here to fill out an application

i Photos2

i Photos3

i Videos of the course

i FAQ about getting Certified

i Links

i Living in Indonesia:

Contents of the TEFL course

i Nightlife

Where

View
Find us on Google Maps
Located right in Surabaya and near some of the most beautiful beaches and scenery in the world, our TESOL Course Indonesia center is, if not in paradise, at least next door to it.

Indonesia, Surabaya

Historic Surabaya.
Surabaya is an ancient city, with a rich history.
It's a tale that has been written in the blood, hopes and accomplishments of the amazing people who have lived here.
From the rich tapestry of Javanese culture, to the vibrant Madurese impact, and on to the interweaving of Indian, Arabic and Chinese cultures ... Surabaya has always been a meeting place for imagination and destiny.
A major shipping center, a transit port, and an international gateway ... Indonesia's second-largest city, and the capital of East Java, has a rich history and an exciting present waiting to be discovered.
From poets to princes; from revolutionaries to teachers; Surabaya is truly the City of heroes.
A few hours from some of the most amazing beaches in the world.
Near a thriving nightlife scene and plenty of restaurants, shops
and other activities.

Why
Live in one of the most exciting cities in the world,
and be central to a lot of places
like Bali, Jakarta and Kalimantan (Borneo).
Administered by highly trained staff with extensive knowledge of Surabaya and surrounding areas.
Immerse yourself in an inviting, friendly culture while gaining the experience and knowledge that will enable you to live and work abroad for years to come.
Empower yourself to live, travel and work in the land of amazing grace and beauty.

For those looking for an alternate location;
we are available to host the course in

Kuta(Bali),

Yogyakarta(Central Java) and

Jakarta(Indonesia's capital city).

Welcome to TEFL Indonesia

Top Ten Reasons to TEFL

Who
Your fellow students come from many countries on
many continents.
Your teacher trainers are some of the most
experienced and well trained in the industry.

Your support staff is extremely helpful,
courteous and will assist you with whatever you need.
The locals are peaceful, friendly people who genuinely enjoy spending time with foreigners.

How
Fill out an application form and take that next step towards learning amidst the big city buzz and excitement of Surabaya.

Tefl International Indonesia, Surabaya:
All TEFL International courses meet current international standards for a 120 hour course (including over 6 hours of observed teaching practice and over 100 hours of classroom time).
Our courses maximize the cultural experiences of our students and provide multi-cultural interaction and learning opportunities for those in need.

Fees for TEFL Course
$1,500 USD (excluding accommodation)
$120 - $250 USD (cost of accommodation)

TESOL Certificate:
Minimum Requirements.
Age: 20 Years.
Education: Capable of producing university-level work

English: Fluent or near-native fluency
TEFL International's TESOL certificate is a four-week intensive course, teaching students how to teach English as a second language.
TEFL International has been in operation since 1998 and has 21 schools operating around the world.
You do not have to have a BA to take this certificate course.

How much will I make?

First year teachers in Indonesia typically make 8,000,000 to 10,000,000 Rupiah a month.
Plus housing, airfare and year-end bonuses

Click here for job and resource links

Please note that this certificate is internationally recognized and accepted ... so you could work anywhere

This is a recent letter from a satisfied school.

"Hi Wayne, This is Eric Manning, DoS at EF Yogyakarta. We are always looking out for quality teachers here in Jogja, and I would be grateful if you could display the enclosed ad on your school noticeboard. One of your graduates, Nikita Wong recently joined the team here and I would be very interested to hear from other students of similar quality.
Thank you in advance for your assistance.
Regards
Eric Manning"

http://www.teflindonesia.com/efyogya.gif
View EF Yogyakarta's employment notice here

Join the TESOL Course in Surabaya.
TEFL Certification Courses in Surabaya, Indonesia

Note:Local circumstances and extras may change without notice
This TEFL International Course conducted by a
separate company working as a subcontractor of TEFL International and is not a non-profit organization.

With contacts across the globe, we offer you the opportunity to obtain an internationally recognized Teachers Training Certificate while basking in paradise.
We are where you want to Teach English or begin your English teaching experience.
We are validated and moderated by our board of academic advisers that include many of the biggest names in the industry, and also include dozens of local language professionals in our locations around the world. So you can be assured of the highest standards from us.
Wherever and whenever you take one of our certification for Teachers Training you can be assured it will be quality.

TEFL means Teaching English as a Foreign Language, and it's a certification that is required by learning institutions to teach abroad. The current demand for teachers is huge.
Upon completion you will have the credentials required to work or Teach English Abroad as a teacher in non-native English speaking countries.
Once certified you will be well on your way to experiencing foreign cultures and languages and embarking upon your new career as an English teacher teaching abroad or home.
No previous teaching experience or specialist qualifications are required.
The only requirement is fluency in English.

Get certified and teach English.
Teach English and see the world
TEFL Certification Courses in Surabaya, Indonesia

All TEFL International courses meet current international standards

Over six(6)hours of observed teaching practice and over 100 hours of classroom time).
Our courses maximize the cultural experiences of our students and provide multi-cultural interaction and learning opportunities for those in need.

TEFL International's TESOL certificate is a four week, 120 hours intensive course, teaching students how to teach English as a second language.
TEFL International has been in operation for 9 years and has 21 schools operating around the world.

Joining the TEFL course in Indonesia, Surabaya

Also indicate when you'll be arriving so we can have accommodation prepared.

Call Tefl Indonesia and ask about getting certified

Call or text +62 081 703 284 155
Call or text +62 087 851 964 031

Contact Tefl Indonesia

Indonesia, Surabaya

TEFL Course Schedule
(TESOL Certification)

Calendar for 2011
Course dates for 2011
3 January - 28 January
31 January - 25 February
28 February - 25 March
4 April - 29 April
2 May - 27 May
6 June - 1 July
4 July - 29 July
1 August - 26 August
5 September - 30 September
3 October - 28 October
31 October - 25 November
28 November - 23 December

Please contact us with any more questions

Please contact us with any more questions

Tefl Indonesia

For any further queries please contact TEFL Admin

Our Contact numbers
- Indonesia (Surabaya)

Email

Netty Poernomo
Wayne Duplessis
Admin Tefl Indo

MSN ID

duper

Yahoo ID

Email Tefl Indonesia

Skype

wayne.duplessis

TEFL International Indonesia
Here is the contact information:
Adryan Sutanto
Telephone: +62 081 703284155

Wayne Duplessis
Telephone: +62 087 851 964 031 (call or text)

Netty Poernomo
Course Director
Telephone: +62 31 732 0973
Fax: +62 31 732 0974

Campus Address:
TEFL International Indonesia
Raya Darmo Permai 111 KAV 15
BLOK C1 C2
Surabaya, Jawa Timur, 60241
Indonesia
Telephone: +62 31 732 0973
Fax: +62 31 732 0974

Important Note

Regardless of your arrival day and time, we ask that you assist us in preparing for all arrivals by providing us with your travel arrangements via email Please do so as soon as your travel plans are confirmed and at least one week prior to your scheduled arrival time. Help us help you by providing this information!

Early Arrivals

If you wish to arrive in Surabaya before the Thursday when your accommodation is available, TEFL International can provide assistance in finding reasonably priced and well located rooms.

Accommodation details

Accommodation in Surabaya will consist of a private room (unless otherwise requested) located either near the school or in an apartment within a five-minute walk to the school. All rooms have a private bath and are clean, comfortable and adequately furnished. All rooms are also located within easy reach of various restaurants, bars and entertainment sites.

Bedding is provided; however, you will need to bring your own towels. We provide free, weekly cleaning service during the course for all rooms, and laundry service is available at a nominal fee.

You are more than welcome to invite friends or family members to stay in your room during the course - just please let us know as soon as possible. There is a minimal extra charge per additional person per room.

Please be assured that any special requests or requirements regarding accommodation will be taken into account, and TEFL International will make every effort to oblige.

School Location and Facilities

The school building is located in the heart of Surabaya Town, offering easy access to exploring all the best beaches, entertainment and tourist sites the city has to offer. The building is spacious and comfortable, with large classrooms, whiteboards and complete resource materials.

The school phone, fax and internet facilities are available for trainee use with prior approval from the School Manager. Outgoing mail can be left at the front desk and will be posted the following morning. We simply charge you the same price that the post office charges us.

Training Schedule

The first class will take place Monday morning at 9:30 a.m., at which time we will provide a complete course schedule. Sessions generally run between 9:30 a.m. and 4.30 p.m. with regular breaks.

There will be a welcome meal provided by the school on the first day of the course.

Trainees are expected to attend all input and other sessions included on the schedule unless they are sick and require medical treatment. This is particularly important for Teaching Practice (TP) as it is very difficult to arrange alternate TP times.

Course Dress and Requirements

For all input and tutorial sessions at the training location, there are no specific dress requirements, yet we ask that you be mindful of your peers and respectful of the fact that you are a visitor in another country.

During Teaching Practice, however, there are specific dress requirements that adhere to the local working culture and basic ideas of professionalism. All trainees are expected to dress "casually smart" according to the following guidelines:

Women:

Shoulders should be covered; sleeveless shirts are acceptable, but very thin straps or tank tops are not. No low-cut necklines or very short skirts. Bare midriffs must not be visible, even when lifting arms up. Open-toed shoes are acceptable except when visiting local schools.

Men:

Long pants; no raggedy jeans. Short- or long-sleeved shirt with a collar; a tie is not required. Sandals are acceptable, yet closed shoes are preferred and required when visiting local schools. Long hair should be neatly tied back into a pony-tail.

*Note – in the event that we visit local schools for Teaching Practice, please be prepared to dress professionally. Women are to be neatly dressed with covered shoulders and knees, men in long pants and button-down shirts (ties will be provided). Only closed-toed shoes will be acceptable for both women and men. No tennis shoes or jeans, please.

Resources

Please bring a pen and a notebook for taking notes during class. All relevant course books and materials will be provided, and the school has a large resource library for reference.

Photocopying, fax, telephone and internet facilities are available for use by trainees.

Trainee Post-Course Evaluations

Each trainee will be asked to complete a written evaluation form at the end of the course, which will remain anonymous and confidential. These evaluations are aimed to give trainees the opportunity to provide feedback regarding anything to do with the course, trainers, accommodation, and so forth.

In addition, we welcome your open and honest feedback at any stage during the course, so that we can continue to improve the training course and the facilities provided at the training location. Your thoughts are truly invaluable, so please share them!

ABOUT SURABAYA

In-Town Transportation

The easiest way to make your way around surabaya is taxi. When hiring, make certain the taxi has a meter.. There is a local bus network that circles the city; however, it is very slow and unreliable. Cars and motorcycles are available for hire locally.

Drinking Water

Tap water is deemed unsafe to drink in Indonesia; therefore, therefore you should only drink bottled water during your stay. Bottled water is very inexpensive and readily available in the school and throughout the city. Ice in hotels and restaurants is always purified and therefore safe.

Shopping

All types of shopping facilities exist in the city – from international supermarkets and department stores to small shops selling local handicrafts and markets selling fresh produce. No doubt you will find plenty to buy in Surabaya!

Local Weather Conditions

The average climate conditions in Surabaya are tropical throughout the year - hot and humid during the day with cool, temperate breezes at night. The local rainy season lasts from October through April. During this time, heavy tropical rains fall mainly in the late afternoon, yet the remainder of the day offers clear skies and stunning sunsets. Daily highs average 30-34ºC in the hottest months, with a nighttime low of 21ºC.

As this description is an average, we highly recommend that you check current weather conditions prior to departure to assist you in your travel preparations.

Get Acquainted!

Beautiful beaches, dramatic scenery, fascinating sights, elephant and rain forest trekking, internationally renowned cuisine, a wide variety of water sports, an intense and pulsating nightlife… Surabaya has something to please everyone! And all can be enjoyed on a very limited budget, so you should never be bored during your free time. Before your arrival, we highly recommend you purchase a descriptive guide book or do some online research to familiarize yourself and get acquainted with Surabaya and all it has to offer. For more information on Surabaya and the country of Indonesia, we recommend the following sites:

Lonely Planet Online www.lonelyplanet.com/destinations/south_east_asia/Indonesia
Surabaya-Guide
Surabaya Tourism
Surabaya Indonesia Travel

Should you have any additional questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Email: n_poernomo@yahoo.com
Yahoo Chat: duplez@yahoo.com
MSN Chat:duper@hotmail.com
Telephone:62 31 731 7352 (Indonesia)

We look forward to welcoming you to Surabaya!

Join the TESOL Course Indonesia, Surabaya. You'll work hard, and you'll be prepared to Teach English Abroad.

A new list of words

2008-05-24T12:55:00.004+07:00

Words
Write something with the words below.
Use the words as you will. Use them as verbs,nouns,adverbs or adjectives. Use the past,present or future. Use the simple,perfect or continuous.
Use the language. Write in English. The point is to use the words, use the language, and use your creativity. Don't misuse the word,just be imaginative.
Email me at duplessis.wayne@gmail.com

1. Case
2. Cup
3. Cable
4. watch
5. Finger
6. Stretch
7. Tingle
8. Notice
9. Please
10.Forage

Getting familiar with the future

2008-05-24T11:20:00.005+07:00

Looking at the future. We say that as if we can actually see the darn thing.

Tomorrow, if I may be so bold as to call the future by this familiar name, is getting closer.

Looking at jobs. Looking at getting the training-center going strong.

Looking at schools for my son.

Looking at where we’ll live in the next few years.

A link for you
http://www.teflindonesia.com/
TEFL Indonesia
Get certified and teach English. Teach English and see the world.
Travels with my Angst

Fitness and other ludicrous fantasies

2008-05-11T21:48:00.003+07:00

Fitness and other ludicrous fantasies

Saturday, May 10, 2008 2:57 PM

Staying healthy?
I'm trying to get back to some semblance of fitness.
My little guy is a bit young for organized sports, although the older son did play basketball and football in school.
Myself, the occasional hike and a light workout.
We have a rowing cycle and some dumbbells. amazingly enough, they do get used.
We were in the mountains last weekend. Still sporting a nasty bruise. A sudden rain hit and I went sliding off the side of the mountain and bounced off a couple of trees. I think the local foliage came off worse than me.

Gurus in the midst

All the best,Wayne,Emily and Wyatt

One of the most important days of my life.

2008-01-26T14:17:00.001+07:00

Bright sunlight and a bad breakfast were two elements of one of the most important days of my life.
A day with equal parts fear, anticipation and confused pride was about to begin.
Emily was already at Hospital Number Three in Changsha. Changsha is Hunan’s capital and Hospital Number Three is an appropriately modern hospital, at least by Chinese standards. Emily’s operation was scheduled for nine o’clock that morning. Any surgery is worrying, but this was a Chinese hospital, my wife and our child. Tense would hardly describe my emotions. Emily would deliver the baby by caesarian, due to her age and the estimated size of the baby. Hospital policy forbade me from being in the room during the operation. So I waited outside with our friend Nancy, our school accountant. Tense would hardly describe my emotions. A doctor came out about nine-thirty and I almost jumped out of my skin.
When he proceeded to lean against the door of the operating room and light up a cigarette I almost throttled the insensitive bastard. Walking, sitting and nervously jumping at every noise occupied the better part of the eternity that was the next quarter hour. Then a nurse came out.
“It’s a boy,” she said.
“No, a girl,” I replied.
“Boy,” she insisted.

We had been told it was going to be a girl a few months before and we were quite happy with that. We had chosen to name her after my father’s mother and had taken to calling the baby Catherine. Dutifully following the nurse down a couple of flights of stairs, and towards a small room I stood and watched as she prepared warm water for the baby’s first bath. The blanket was removed and Catherine was revealed to be “a boy!?!”
I was shocked, proud, and no more delighted by being Daddy to a boy, but I was mightily confused.
Our little boy, born at 9:48 Beijing time on 29/03/2004, weighing 3.9 kg, and measuring 58 cm was here and being cleaned and polished. He had all his toes, and fingers, brown eyes and pointed ears. My pride was somewhat checked by the fact that I now had to come up with a name.
The months of preparation gave way to the concern for Emily’s recovery and the baby’s health. Anticipation gave way to joy and responsibility, as a new child became part of our lives. Confused pride remains.

Oh yes, the boy’s name is Wyatt Alexis.

Happy New Year 2008

2008-01-02T12:55:00.003+07:00

Remember ... this was supposed to be a happy new year?

Recessions,cyclones,earthquakes,Juntas and hooligans

What happened?

We want your opinion.

Happy New Year
January 1st, 2008
@))*

That’s 2008 if you press the shift key
That’s how life goes. The little things make all the difference in the world.
So much hinges on what we do, and what we don’t do.
What are the little things you’ll be doing, or not doing, this year?
Don’t think of them as resolutions, just little things that will make a difference.

All the best,Wayne

Happy New Year 2008

2008-01-02T12:55:00.002+07:00

Happy New Year
January 1st, 2008
@))*

That’s 2008 if you press the shift key
That’s how life goes. The little things make all the difference in the world.
So much hinges on what we do, and what we don’t do.
What are the little things you’ll be doing, or not doing, this year?
Don’t think of them as resolutions, just little things that will make a difference.

All the best,Wayne

Indonesia offers between 7,000.000 Rupiah and 10,000,000 Rupiah as the monthly payment for a first year teacher.

2007-12-27T11:58:00.001+07:00

This was written as a comment to a post about changes in visa requirements around Asia.
Perhaps it may help someone looking for work.
Indonesia offers between 7,000.000 Rupiah and 10,000,000 Rupiah as the monthly payment for a first year teacher. These salaries convert to 700 USD, and just over 1,000 USD respectively.
Flights are paid, and contract completion bonuses are common.
As of yet the visa doesn't require a degree, although this could change.
There is a police check, and fingerprinting has been standard here for at least 12 years.

The schools range from private language chains, Private elementary schools, and semi-international and full international schools.
The International schools usually require a specialization, and an advanced degree
Indonesia has had it’s troubles to be sure, but is a safe country with much to offer someone choosing to live and teach here.

http://esldaily.blogspot.com/

Check out
http://www.teflindonesia.com

http://www.expat.or.id/

http://www.xe.com/ucc/

duplez@yahoo.com

All the best, Wayne

from Chiang Mai to Surabaya.

2007-11-04T11:07:00.001+07:00

I returned from Thailand(via Singapore) on Friday night.
Flew back from Singapore on ValuAir. Good service and landed safe, if a little late.
I was traveling alone, and it's always difficult being away from family.

I was in Thailand with TEFL International. We were training teachers for their TESOL (teaching English to speakers of other languages) Certificate. We were in the northern city of Chiangmai. Chiangmai is an extremely green and beautiful city. The traffic is chaotic and never seems to let up.
The hotel was nice and the area around it had a number of good restaurants. I managed to try a number of ethnic dishes, as well as a wide-selection of international food.

I was surprised how good the Internet connection was in Thailand, and hope that the Indonesian system comes up to that level soon.

We hope to have our course in Surabaya running soon.

Some links for you
TEFL Indonesia
TEFL International
Innovative Solutions

Here in Chiangmai

2007-10-14T13:38:00.001+07:00

I haven't updated for some time
I've been busy preparing for this trip to Chiangmai
This is only my second trip to Thailand, and my first to the north
It's beautiful and the people are very friendly

I'm here to train teachers
We have a good group
They seem eager to learn and open to new ideas

I will write more

All the best,Wayne

based on #3

2007-09-25T23:22:00.001+07:00

1. Run
2. Communicate
3. Bullet
4. Style
5. Bowl
6. Grill
7. Shade
8. Spoon
9. Colour
10. Heart

Like it or not, we have a limited run at this game called life. We exist to communicate, propagate, and terminate. Our existence has ended by age, by blade, by bullet, by bacteria and by boredom. We’ve gone out in style, in sleaze, in disgrace, with remorse, with extreme prejudice, and with dignity.
This isn’t a game. We don’t dance through life. We don’t bounce through life. We don’t bowl through our existence.
Whether our life is spent in the grill of an unforgiving sun, or the shade of endless darkness, we sup at the tit of an earth goddess until we can hold our own spoon.
Whatever our origin or colour our fears, dreams and hopes are shared equally in our collective heart.

Wise to the words #3

2007-09-24T10:28:00.001+07:00

Words for the third leg

1. Run
2. Communicate
3. Bullet
4. Style
5. Bowl
6. Grill
7. Shade
8. Spoon
9. Colour
10.Heart

Have fun
Write

The Bali Scuffle

2007-09-05T14:48:00.001+07:00

The Bali Scuffle
Wise to to words
by Ben Lee Wise

The following story is a work of fiction using the 10 words previously supplied

Bali is a place of warmth and beauty. It boasts some of the most wonderful people you could wish to meet. However...

I didn't mean to punch her in the face. It was a knee jerk reaction. An involuntary act of violence with no plausable excuse. If you were to grant me half an excuse I'd try to explain how the nasal, rising intonation of her "want maasssage?" carved a vicious itch in to my ear-drums.
Her desperate persistance was enough to disrupt my rationality.
I didn't mean to kick him in the crotch. That small man with blazing red eyes who looked so horrified as the massage lady tried to sooth her wound. His ill-feeling towards my outburst was justified. As feeble as it proved his chivalry has to be applauded.
I didn't want to bite his thigh. The police man had every right to force me in to a headlock. To his credit he held on with a ferocious grip. What followed was like an aggressive, riotous, quick-step dance.
'The Tooth and Nail Shuffle' was destined to finish with a flurry. As I slammed in to the ground like a climatic clap of thunder a heavy flip-flop pounded my guts. I began slipping in to the quiet, fuzzy darkness to the distant, fading sound of applause. The last thing I recall was a stranger crouching by my side. He got closer and closer in order to be heard above the crowd and inquired "Transport?"

Ben Wise

Wise to the words ...#2

2007-09-01T23:18:00.001+07:00

Try these

1. glasses
2. human
3. branch
4. solution
5. remember
6. mop
7. parking
8. mosquito
9. Halloween
10. category

I wear glasses and I'm human. I represent, if you believe evolution, that branch of humanity that survived through some mix of dumb luck and ingenious solution.
I don't remember the process, but knowing what a mess humans can make I'd imagine a mop was needed here and there.
While we're parking in the evolutionary way station, somewhere between the dinosaur and the mosquito, and looking like Halloween versions of good and evil-failure and success, think about what category future generations will assign us.

Wise to the words #1

2007-09-01T23:15:00.001+07:00

Always finish what you start.
Never shuffle when you should be dealing.
Don’t bite off more than you can chew.
Disturb sleeping dogs only if you enjoy gaping wounds.
An itch should be scratched, but sometimes you wait.
Clap and the whole world will say, ‘sit down and be quiet’.
Soothe nerves and win patience.
Small problems cause big headaches.
Red is not a good eye-colour.
Quick isn’t a substitute for well done.

Wise to the words

2007-08-08T21:30:00.001+07:00

What the heck is this all about?
I was sitting here, as I do from time to time, and decided that this needs to be a place for words.Your words. This isn't a contest.It isn't a search for new writers. If you want to be found and posting here helps,great.
"Wise to the words' is going to be about writing. Poetry,essays,short stories,dialogs,articles or recipes.
Here are the first ten words. Use the words as you will. Use them as verbs,nouns,adverbs or adjectives. Use the past,present or future. Use the simple,perfect or continuous. Don't misuse the word,just be creative.
Email me at duplessis.wayne@gmail.com

1.Finish
2.Shuffle
3.Bite
4.Disturb
5.Itch
6.Clap
7.Soothe
8.Small
9.Red
10.Quick

A writer writes

2007-07-25T14:24:00.002+07:00

A writer writes
Many well intentioned souls label themselves as actors, novelists, writers, dancers, singers, poets, painters and inventors; and yet nary a scripted word is uttered, nor page published, nor choreographed steps taken. A single note remains unreleased, stanzas stuck in rhyme-less amber, canvas lies unsullied, and better mouse traps await their builders.

This is not to discourage dreamers.
Dream and let the dreams urge you forward. Don’t become a label with no substance.

Become the noun and live the verb.

Tim Hannigan is a writer.
Tim Hannigan writes.
Read.

Pulau Naga

Madura

More good times than bad times

2007-07-25T14:16:00.002+07:00

I still think of the old days occasionally. There were, thankfully, more good times than bad times. I realize that’s almost an Edie Brickell song.

The Old Days

There have been a few changes in mine. The November before last, I changed jobs. The December before last, Dec 14,1997, I got married. Her name is Emily. She’s beautiful. She’s quite smart. Which begs the obvious question.

She’s Chinese, and that has led to some tense moments here. I’ve not been in touch with many people … how about you?

During the riots:
We just went through some minor renovations on the house. Most of the major work had been done at the same time as the rioting.
If you can imagine watching coats of white paint being applied, plaster trowled on, and tiles replaced and buffed even as news reports of burnings, riots and lootings filled the airwaves you can begin imagine the admixture of shock, anger, fear, fits of lunatic humor, cabin fever and darn fool stubbornness that gripped this household for a few weeks.

I’ve just taken a few more hours, for a few more Rupiah.
I’m still studying Bahasa Indonesian. It’s coming along. It’s stressful, but it’s a great feeling to be able to throw a phrase together. I’m also better able to explain things to students, and that makes a world of difference.
I still avoid speaking anything but English in class, except by way of explanations, since the students are quite ready and willing to take the cue to waste on hour while you steer them back to English. Everything is a balancing act here.
Daily life, family and religion; three shows daily under one roof.

Faith and Change
Emily and the kids were Buddhist up until a few years ago. After Emily’s father died, she converted. The Christian religion here is probably closest to Baptist. Ain’t that a frightening thought. The churches here all seem to be of the charismatic variety. Which means, of course, that you’ve got your shouters, your shakers, your dancers, your prancers, your enthusiastic wavers and your quiet and composed prayers. I’m the sole practitioner of a splinter religion.
I’m the quiet, uncomfortable one.

The kids had never had a traditional Christmas dinner until this past Christmas. Emily had her first turkey dinner on our honeymoon in Singapore last year. She also saw her first Lion dance when we visited a cultural expo in Singapore.
I’ve made some changes in my life. I’ve actually attended church a few times. Emily and the kids go every Sunday. I’m trying to adjust, but I have to be honest; traditional Christianity just leaves me cold. I’ve also been able to witness the Buddhism that’s practiced here. We’ve attended a few weddings, and a few too many funerals. Emily’s Mom, who lives with us, is Buddhist.

The adjustment to such a close-knit family has been rewarding, irritating, incredible, frustrating, and ultimately highly recommended. Emily’s two sisters and her brother are also Buddhist. Indonesia’s Buddhism is probably as fetish oriented as Korean Buddhism, with its chants, incense and rituals, but its somehow encouraging, seeing any culture survive under such adverse conditions.
A full-blown Buddhist funeral is quite interesting. From the chanting, to the pacing of the maidens (no I’m not kidding), to the burning of the house, money, major appliances, cars and servants. These flammable offering are, thankfully, all paper representations. Fire is a large part of Bali’s Hindu community. The funeral processions are solemn, but I have no idea of the final stop. Unlike other tourists, I have no wish to intrude on such a personal time.
I can only imagine how these gomers would feel if a crowd showed up at ol’ Aunt Tilly’s sendoff. “Don’t mind us folks, we’re just here to soak up the culture.” “Could you lift up Aunt Tilly’s chin a bit more. Now put this wine glass …”

Hinduism has probably survived because Bali isn’t physically connected to Java. It also helps that Bali brings in the tourists. Have you visited Bali yet? I can forward some addresses for some decent places. They’re clean, and they’re cheap. We had been hoping to get to Canada last Christmas, but it appears we’ll wait until late October or early November.

We had an incident here …
We had an incident here that may have made the international news.
A couple of locals broke into a ruko (a shophouse/a private office). They were caught and handed over
to the police. The police may, or may not have, beaten them up.
A local ‘leader’ decided to organize a rescue. They stormed the station.
The police rallied their courage, and ran away. The station was set
ablaze.
The prisoner died.

I’m trying not to be a workaholic.
I find it difficult to turn away hours, but it has
become a bit much. Life here is going well. Occasionally there are
bumps. We have a good life here, but I miss family, friends and a
familiar landscape. I would love to return to Canada. There would be two
conditions though:
could I find a decent job, and could Emily find work.

Indonesia, or perhaps it’s just teaching, is stressing me out right now,
but it’s the only viable gig I have.
I’m qualified to do other things.
I’d like to write, I’d love to design, and it would be great to feel
creative again … but will it pay?

I’d love to just teach computers, or writing again.
My buddy Chris and I have been talking about a couple of scripts. I know
I can write, but I don’t know thing one about marketing a script.
The idea that keeps cropping up when you talk to people is a story about
this life.
There are eight million stories in the naked city, as the narrator said.
Maybe there are 10 or 15 really decent stories.
Other than that, it’s been pretty quiet here.

How did you spend the Holidays?
It was a green, and very wet, Christmas. Today we almost had a flood.
We actually had quite the downpour inside the house. It seems the
servants were not cleaning upstairs (why doesn’t that surprise me?)and
the resulting litter blocked the normal flow of water.
Things are dry now.
On the upside; I don’t think the floors have ever been this clean.

What’s the weather like there?
Work here is tiring?
What passes for organization here is beginning to wear on me.

Before the flood:
We had an amazing dinner at Cafe Bromo, in the Sheraton. Turkey, baked
potatoes, roast beast,Five kinds of gravy,lamb,seafood,cranberry
sauce,salads and even tea. I did not touch a single drop of alcohol. I
may have a beer tomorrow. I may not.
Emily’s mother did not join us as she had other plans.
They also had some incredible desserts. They now have a few less.
I will need more exercise.
We were entertained by a pseudo-latino quartet. They serenaded
Emily,Grace, Adryan, Grace’s boyfriend Arthur and I with some decent
guitar playing and a selection of Christmas songs and the latest from
the top 40(Indonesian top 40).
When we arrived home our nephews, Jang Jang and Chong, were here with
their parents. It is good to have kids around at Christmas. Jang is
seven and Chong is five.

I hope dinner you had a decent dinner. Whether it’s kimbap or sushi, it
doesn’t make for a very appetizing Christmas meal.
A belated Merry Christmas,Selemat Natal, Joyeaux Noel, Feliz Navidad,
and such like that.
We headed to Bali after Christmas.
I’ve been teaching 40hrs a week.
It’s about twice as much as anyone would want to attempt for any extended
period.
How are things with you?
We’re doing okay here.
Things are a bit uncertain at times.
Living in Asia is sometimes like being under a microscope.
Everything you do is examined, talked about and then embroidered.
As I’m not known for my patience with gossips at the best of times,
Asia can be stressful.
Emily’s business is going well. Work is going well.
I think about Canada as we prepare to leave for Bali.
Some perverse part of me is actually nostalgic as I read various
descriptions of snow. I think I’ll try to bake that part away in the
Balinese sun.
As a family, we have made two trips to Bali. It’s a 12 hour drive, then an hour long ferry crossing, and then another three hours. This country may look small, until you drive through it.
As Steven Wright said, “It’s a small world, but I wouldn’t want to paint it.”

We returned from Bali early Saturday morning.
It is a long drive, and because of holiday traffic and ferry delays; it
was even worse. We spent nine hours waiting for the ferry.
Bali was nice, but it’s good to be home.
How are things there?
Tomorrow it’s back to work. I’ll try to be happy, but I really need some
more time. Ah well. (big sigh)

What about these kids? Grace is 19, and Adryan is 17. Grace is in her second year at Petra Christian University, and Adryan is in his second year of high school. We had a large demo on Mayjen Sukorno today. Seems Megawati’s faction has some beef with the Dharmala group. Chris and I waited for the ILS
driver at Ciputra for an hour.
Work is okay.
I was out at Colors last night. I came home quite drunk, but relatively early.

We have also had a rise in Demam Berdarah (Dengue Fever) Two of our
neighbors went to hospital. There back home now. Suluwesi was hit pretty hard. The rains have been quite heavy this year.

I have some news. Grace has gotten married.
She tied the knot on March 28.
She is under strict orders to finish college.
I’m not crazy about it, but the guy is a decent enough sort. He treats her well.

Have you seen any good movies lately? Emily and I just saw Lost in Space. Before I left for Singapore, we saw Zorro. When I returned, we saw Mulan. Saturdays are movie days for us. We see a movie, and then we eat at the mall. Sometimes Emily(Suk Mey) goes shopping with her sisters Suk Ling(Suzy) and Suk Hwa(Ratna).
I hate shopping, so while they scurry about the stores, I go skating. The largest mall in Surabaya has an indoor skating rink. Indonesians are dangerous people to skate with. They have no sense of the world around them. People are constantly stopping in front of you, or bumping into you. Skating is sometimes fun, and sometimes frustrating.

Before I left Canada for Asia, friends and relatives were unanimous in their assertion that I would come back married. Well now they can say, “Sokor.” There’s an Indonesian word for ‘I told you so’ Sokor. When you give advice that no one takes … Soccer. When someone does something stupid, and gets hurt … Sokor. It’s a pretty good word. Of course when you make a prediction of marriage, and children and it happens … Sokor is said softly. This is basically an update. How’s work? Here, things are going well. the business is beginning to grow.
Except for a couple of riots, Surabaya, at least, has been quiet.

On Monday, Tuesday, and especially during Habibie’s visit on Wednesday, traffic was nuts. Most of the so-called rioting was done by highschool students. The action consisted of stone throwing, jumping into and out of trucks, running in the street and shouting obscenities at the passing army convoys. Basically it was a field trip for students in the Stupidity 101 program.

I was just remembering how beautiful a Canadian autumn can be. I was also thinking about Byron. My brother Byron passed away nearly three years ago. It happened while I was in Pusan, South Korea.
His birthday has come and gone again.

I look forward to rediscovering the colors and smells of a September morning. I’ve told Emily, the kids and my students about the long walks.
How difficult to communicate the long moments spent admiring the golds, reds and greens and browns. To feel the last warmth of the year on your face. To stare unashamedly into clear autumn skies.
To breathe deep of the cooling breeze. To taste greedily of the clean air. How to explain looking up at the sky and knowing that this brief, transitory experience has to be embraced and then tucked safely away as winter’s approach is heralded in the ever-darkening skies.

I’ve been keeping up on some important news from home. My brother’s wife just had a baby boy. As far as seeing my first nephew, it looks as if it won’t happen for awhile. We’re looking at October at the earliest. We could be coming as late as December.

I’ve actually gained an incredibly large family here. Our niece Yay Jen had a birthday last night. I was working late, so I missed the party. This has happened a bit too often, unfortunately. I either miss things, or show up late and overdressed. Men here generally favor Batik dress shirts. Batik is a tasteful Hawaiian shirt. Is tasteful stretching the point? I have yet to ‘go native’. When I go to a wedding, funeral or to work, I wear a tie. I do not wear sandals, and I still don’t smoke. Growing up as the only abstainer in a family of chain-smokers you can imagine what I feel about this delightful pastime.

I awoke at 4:00am with a major sinus headache. Emily spent two hours wrapping my face with hot towels. This helped a lot. We waited until 9:00am and made our way to Adi Husada. Loosely translated as Hussein’s house of apatheic sadism. I tolerated the hour-long wait. I tolerated the idiot questions. I tolerated the two-hour wait for results.
Then my patience paid off. I was afforded the wondrous opportunity to witness a crowd of these caring souls gathering around a little old lady on a stretcher, and lighting up. There must have been eight or nine of these knights in shining ignorance. Well, I lost it. Whether it was the elegant way I enunciated the F word or my suggestions of their doubtful parentage, the crowd dispersed.
Emily was not impressed. She’s right. I don’t like it, but she’s right. I now reserve my anger, albeit subdued, for the guitar carrying miscreants who assemble at our gate.
It’s bad enough on the street, but they’ve gone too far when they come to my home. One of the buggers had the nerve to ring the bell the other night. The servants also know not to give money to anyone at the door. This has been my rant for the day.

I’ve just signed to teach a few extra hours at one of the ritziest schools in Indonesia. It’s smack dab in the middle of one of the swankest housing developments you could imagine. Do you know about Ciputraland? This place looks like the set of Miami Vice. Pastel colors, and beach house motifs abound. You throw in a couple of Batik shirts and Don Johnson or Tom Selleck would feel right at home. The school has facilities that I have rarely seen in Canada. Large classrooms, air-conditioning, well-stocked libraries, a video library, a computer lab, an art room, a large cafeteria, a wealth of teaching materials, and most suprisingly … a playground. This is a culture that treats physical exertion as a strange phenomenon.

Ice-skating is still amazingly popular here. You’d be shocked how good some of the kids are. The one big problem with being on the ice with them is their complete lack of awareness. In the middle of a group someone will kick out, do a spin or rush in for the sole purpose of stopping suddenly and causing a spray of ice. I enjoy skating. I avail myself of the opportunity whenever Emily and her sisters decide to shop.
We arrive at the mall together; they shop, I skate, and then we have lunch. Saturdays are mall days. They window shop, I skate; we see a movie, then we eat. My company is having an Anniversary bash, and I’ve been suckered into the MC position. I think I need my sleep.

I’m trying hard to be more Zen … whatever the heck that means. It occasionally works. I haven’t been bit, scratched or swore at by any of my students. Taxi drivers do, on occasion, swear at me. It’s amazing how selectively some people learn a language. Many westerners seem to know just enough to begin an argument. I have letters all ready to mail to family and friends, now I have to find a working post office. The regular postal service is a nightmare here. We visited the central post office in hopes of tracking some missing mail, both coming and going, but we ended up almost as lost as the mail. Hundreds of people, thousands of letters, and none of it in any obvious order. Ah well, that’s Indonesia. We’re okay here. Both the kids are back at school, and Emily and I are too busy … as usual.

Last August/ September

Work is going well. The business has been a bit shaky due to the rupiah’s fluctuations, and also because of Hungry Ghost month in Hong Kong. During august the Chinese have to appease their ancestors with offerings of foods, gifts, and the burning of money … usually a symbolic representation is used. It’s very upsetting to the normal flow of business. The new airport in Hong Kong is also incredibly disorganized. Well, that’s life in Asia. The teaching is going well.

Emily and I just returned from Tretes, a mountain village, a few minutes ago. We were actually at a church retreat. I didn’t burst into flames as I entered church property so I suppose my soul is safe for the moment. It was nice. It was quite relaxing. By some miracle of divine intervention, or just dumb luck, the God Squad didn’t attempt to lure me into their ranks. Emily has been very understanding about my quiet time. She knows that I believe. She doesn’t understand why I feel no overwhelming need to wave my hands in the air and scream “GOD IS GREAT!” Personally, I think the big guy knows the score, and flattery ain’t gonna help if you screw up.

Work is going well. I would like to return to doing some design work, but right now, and right here, I can provide for my family by teaching. It’s not so bad. I enjoy teaching, and I’m good at it. How’s the gig? I call home once a month. We hope to be home by next October.

We just celebrated Year One, on Saturday, December 19. At 7:00pm. We celebrated our 1st anniversary with a fish and lobster BBQ. Didn’t you get your invitation? It would have been nice to have you there.

I was only in Singapore for a couple of nights. I’m quite happy to be home. I stayed in a little hotel near Chinatown. Monday was the Hindu festival, Deepavali … the victory of good over evil. Boy, are they optimistic. Most of the city was as boring as ever. After this last trip, I don’t think I’ll think of Singapore in quite the same way as I used to. A visit to the noodle house near the hotel quickly dispelled any lingering notions of Singapore’s sterility. The midnight crowd consisted of three very mean looking Chinese men, four intoxicated Indians, and three of the ugliest, toughest looking hookers this side of a biker movie. I spent most of my time just walking around in Singapore. I hate shopping malls, so Singapore quickly grates on me. It is nice just to pick a direction and stroll for a few hours.

With the current situation here, walking around isn’t really advisable. When I first came here I walked everywhere, and at anytime. Now we have daylight robberies, and midnight decapitations. All this for just pennies a day. Have you been following the news from home?
What’s up with this new territory?

Are there any Practical benefits to Toronto’s amalgamation?

We had been hoping to get to Canada at Christmas, but it appears we’ll wait until late September 1999. My teaching schedule keeps expanding, and while that may be good for our bank account it doesn’t leave much free time. My wife has just returned from China, and we’ve been catching up.

Between work and family I haven’t had much time to even open my mail, much less reply to it. I’m currently dealing with a sinus infection. Emily has been great about preparing hot towels for me. Twenty minutes with those and I can face the day. Just so you don’t think I’ve married some weak-willed Geisha, this helping works both ways.
I’ve actually found a way to help Emily with her occasional migraines. I paid close attention to the old woman that gives us massages. I can now give a pretty decent foot massage. This has helped relieve Emily’s pain to the point that she can sleep. She only has one or two migraines a month, but I know it hurts like hell.
Have you found someone for a decent massage? Is that too much of a personal question?
I hope Christmas finds you and your family safe and together. We’ll have Christmas dinner at one of the hotels. It’s well nigh impossible to find a turkey in a local supermarket, so we have to depend on the International hotels. We’re safe and we hope to enjoy our Christmas in a more or less traditional manner.

On Saturday, December 19. At 7:00pm. We celebrated our 1st anniversary with a fish and lobster BBQ. Didn’t you get your invitation? It would have been nice to have you there.

I want to send photos, but for whatever reason, letters containing photos keep disappearing. It doesn’t matter if they’re coming or going, they just vanish. What is happening in your life? It’s always great to regain contact. It’s been quiet here, thankfully.

There is a political convention this week, so we’re a bit concerned about possible violence.
I’ll write more later.
You can see some photos at http://welcome.to/dupelaw
Last October, Emily spent two weeks in Hong Kong and China with her sister and mother.
We’re looking for more business in Hong Kong and China. I was home here with the kids.
I hope to visit Canada next year. It’s all dependent on business now. I’ve been busy helping Emily to prepare for her trip. She left this morning with her mother and her sister. They’re meeting with customers. They’re also going to learn the do’s and don’ts of packing fish for export.
We’re not exporting many Crabs right now. We have small interests in lobster exports as well. Since we only started last January, we still have a lot to learn.
Most business here has a shelf life of a few months. Suppliers have no customer loyalty, and the concept of taking less hasn’t sunk into fishermen, exporters or buyers. I fear I may be party to ecological rape, and economic suicide. For us it’s been, at best, an ambiguous experience.

We made a good profit at the start, and then the bottom fell out of the market. We stopped exporting for a month. Emily’s trip was an effort to find new markets. Emily was in China right now. She make some contacts for our business. It was very lonely, and very hectic.
In terms of stress, nothing quite equals parenthood. I haven’t had the breaking-in period. The hardest thing with teenagers is to convince them their not invulnerable. I imagine that’s an ongoing lesson.

Work is going well. Do I write that too often?
I still teach three nights a week at the university, and my students there are showing signs of stress. As for younger students, I still teach classes at my company’s school and also in a housing complex, stress isn’t really an issue. Thank God for well-adjusted rug rats. No matter what you may hear on the news, be reassured that we’re taking precautions.

March 28 arrives
Well, today’s the day.
Our daughter Grace just got married.
We’ll be heading to the reception in a couple of hours.
I don’t remember my own wedding being half as stressful as this one has
been.

Stress and Relaxation
I’ve been home today with a damn flu.
Come to the tropics and get sick.
Actually, it hasn’t been that bad.
I needed the rest, and it gave Emily
and I a chance to finish the wedding invitations.
I had worked with an Australian teacher for a short while. She was always visibly stressed, and actually stressful to be near.
From what my friend Geoff tells me, her exit was somewhat explosive.
She had went through a string of servants, and eventually
she bodily tossed her last employee through the front door.
This dismissal did not go well with the usual assortment
of becak drivers, servants and other street types.
They barged into her home. Whatever happened, completely unhinged
this teacher.
She’s back in Oz now.
Life goes on here. In spite of election fears,
and an increase in petty crimes; Surabaya is quiet.
A trip to the plaza, especially TP, is now a tricky proposition.
Kids and old ladies have become increasingly persistent. I had two old
ladies following me all the way to my car one night.
Thankfully my driver shooed them away.
The number of teenage punks inside the plazas has also increased.
They try to cut between groups. They sit on the escalator
Emily and I were hanging back a little after a family dinner at Fajar,
and saw something that scared the hell out of me.
Our son Adryan, who’s not unlike his peer group,
was walking around in an after-dinner daze.
These two started following him.
I asked Emily to wait and walked in-between them.
If I had thought about it, I might have considered that they were both
larger than me.
I have the advantage that I knew what they were, and they didn’t know
me.
They obviously weren’t interested in pressing the point.
They stopped cold.
I noticed two guys just hanging out. They were lurking, as only
Indonesians can lurk.
I had a talk with Adryan. I think it began, “Wake up!”.
I’ve had a couple of occasions where I’ve kicked open bathroom doors.
I haven’t gone nuts. I don’t like lurkers.
What is this compulsion to hang out in washrooms?
If their name were George Michael, I might understand it.
The first time it happened, I was in the john after seeing a movie with
Emily. There had been a couple of people.
Then it was empty. I had the strangest feeling.
I looked behind me and noticed that one of the stalls was partially
open.
I kept an eye on it as I finished and washed my hands.
Sure enough the door was opening, and then closing again.
The movements were small, and I thought, ‘relax, it’s the wind.’
I looked up and saw the window behind the stall was closed.
Ergo, no wind.
I walked over to the door and slammed my foot into it.
I heard a grunt, but no one came out. I walked out.
As I stood waiting for Emily, a punk came out of the washroom.
He was quickly met by his friends. They slunk off together.
The second time I was out with Chris. The incident was similar, but this
time I kept quiet.
I made it obvious that I’d seen them. This time the lurker had company.
Two punks came in just to stand in the washroom.
It’s interesting watching them puff up their chests as you walk by.
Chris has started to carry a small aluminum bat in his car, or in his
bag when he walks.
I generally prefer to keep my eyes open. We have bought spray for Emily,
Grace my mother-in-law to carry.
The only lurkers I want to see are on Babylon 5.
Have you seen any decent TV lately?
Can you walk at night?
Do you generally feel safe?
I’ve just returned from walking the dogs.
Rocky and Sasa are a lot of fun, but they can be major pains in the ass.
Sasa was originally named Fanda, but she looks so much like the puppy we
lost last year,
that everyone started calling her Sasa. They’re both Chow Chows. They
eat three times a day, and get out at least that much.
Although we have so many guests that are
afraid of animals, and they also frighten the workers, I will not have an animal in a cage.
One of the guys used to raise his hand as if to strike Rocky.
He’s since sought other employment. Good thing, ’cause Rocky and I had a
bet going on who’d toast him first.
We just need to be careful when they go outside. No, they never leave
the yard. We had the garden landscaped last year.
There’s a wide assortment of trees, and hiding places for them.
It’s a pleasant place to be. Our patio is large enough for chairs and a
small table.
It’s a nice place to relax.
We’re reasonably screened from the street. We generally don’t get annoyed.
We have one extra room, with a private bath. Yes, we do have hot water.
Well, that’s my life. I have to get to bed.

Wish us luck.

Relief

2007-07-18T22:13:00.001+07:00

Had a bad Saturday
Over-reacted
Went home
Emailed an apology
Things are better now

How's that for terse verse?

All the best,Wayne

An unfortunate tendency

2007-07-15T10:21:00.001+07:00

A bad day at work
We were doing an expo at a local mall and one of our staff members was being particularly pushy and rude and I got upset with him.
That being said, it's not an excuse for my rudeness or the level of my reaction.
I did not swear,nor was I physical. I was sharp and I was demanding.

I did apologize to the staff member. By then the damage was done.
My boss saw it as me being rude in public.
Ultimately, it's not good

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I have an unfortunate tendency to lead with my big mouth, and can be cranky when I'm tired
I'll deal with it and can only pray for fairness and understanding

All the best,Wayne

Memories of Bali

2007-06-30T16:04:00.001+07:00

I should note that this was originally posted in 1998.

We returned from Bali yesterday.

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It's good to be home.
Emily had went to Bali a few days earlier, as she had business and both my son and I still had school.On Christmas Eve we got to the airport and boarded our flight to Bali.

Like the song goes ... "the weather started getting rough. The tiny ship was tossed. If not for the courage of the fearless crew ..."We made three passes over the Island of the Gods, but it wasn't meant to happen.
The rain was buffeting our sturdy craft. It was impossible to see anything, and then the peanuts ran out.

Well next thing you know ... ol' Wayne's back in Surabaya.And Boy howdy, was I ever happy about that. I peppered the air with cries of gosh golly and dad burn it. I'm not happy.

Emily is waiting at the airport for me and her handphone is obviously not working. My handphone has previously given up the ghost.Now I'm using a phone card and trying to find a compatible phone. I find one , unfortunately it's sandwiched between two phones occupied by men talking louder than seems necessary.

I can't hear a bloody thing. I'm trying to explain the situation to my mother-in-law. She's a nice lady who I communicate quite well with in person, yet her English doesn't exist, my Indonesian is poor, the connection sucks and the surrounding noise is unbearable.

Well, I wish everyone a Merry Christmas at the top of my lungs, I compliment their country and their courtesy and I wish them on their way. My son thinks dear old Dad is ready for a new sport coat in that lovely wrap-around style.

Finally I get through. Everybody's okay on that side. We waited in Surabaya's Juanda airport for an hour and a half. Finally the plane boarded again. It was now 10:00pm. The flight to Bali is about 35 to 45 minutes. Bali is a hour ahead of Surabaya.

We arrive in Bali at 11:40p.m. Bali time. It's drizzling. The taxi driver asks for Rp40,000. I decline.We walk out to the taxi booth and buy a voucher. We pay Rp 26,000. Christmas Eve passes in the back of a taxi.We arrive.

My wife is at work preparing a shipment of fruit to Hong Kong. I am now a fruit packer.By 12:00 p.m. Christmas day the fruit is packed and on it's way.
We shower, eat and almost everyone sleeps.

Me, ... I'm wired. The rest of our merry band has fallen asleep. The nanny and the cook are watching the kids.The next day the lost sleep will catch up with me. I take a long walk. We were in Denpasar, Bali and it's hot. I walk for an hour and come back drenched in sweat.

Christmas night we head to Jimbaran.

Jimbaran beach is a long strip of seafood restaurants. You order your food fresh. You pick a table. On the beach if it's not raining, under the tents if it is.On a clear night the sound of the surf, the smell of barbecued fish and the majesty of a star-filled sky conspire to bewitch even the most cynical traveler.
The day after Christmas I sleep until 11:00a.m. I'm still tired when my two nephews and my niece wake me.Chinese-Indonesian children do not play outside and are generally spoiled. I've brought some cartoons with me. The VCDs keep them occupied for half an hour.
We head to Kuta that afternoon. We don't go to the bars or the shopping malls. We find a relatively quiet beach and play in the surf. My son, who's eighteen, seems more interested in the spectacle of topless women who frolic close by.My head may have turned one or two times.

The surf-kissed sand has been rendered almost mirror-like. The sky is a rich blue with traces of white clouds. Gradually the blue becomes purple and the sun is a descending red ball. Pale pinks and rich oranges dominate the fading palate.A tropical sunset is beautiful and abbreviated.
In fifteen minutes it is dark. The stars are brilliant.Aside from a few moments of temper, the week passes uneventfully.We watch videos on New Years' Eve.Two days later we hop in the car and head to Lovina.

We're going to see the Dolphins.

Lovina

2007-06-30T15:42:00.004+07:00

Originally posted in 1998

So, last episode we left for Lovina to see the dolphins.
Along the way we pass the site of Gunung Agung's 1963 eruption.The devastation was massive and thousands died. The Balinese believe that this was because prayers had been interrupted.Now the boulders, once part of Gunung Agung's crown, are strewn about,but they are covered with lush vegetation. It was another example of nature's power to repair itself.

I was reminded of a walk through Canada's Algonquin park.
Granted, it probably doesn't need to be said that it certainly wasn't similar terrain.A picture from the early years of the last century showed a devastated mountain, trees and earth torn away to run a rail line through.
Then in the fall 0f 1995 I walked down that same path and tall, healthy trees shaded me. Waist high grass surrounded me, and I was shade by mature pines. Nature will right itself given a chance.
Now I stood in the lushness of Gunung Agung revival. Gunung is the Indonesian word for mountain, and the center of Bali is a spine of mountains. Many of them are still active volcanoes. As late as 1994 there have been eruptions. They don't call the Indonesian archipelago the Ring of Fire because of the hot food.We arrived in Lovina. We looked at one place. They wanted RP 300,000 a night. That's the price of a luxury hotel in Surabaya.

We found the Hotel Padma. We paid Rp 120,000 for each of two rooms. Myself, Emily, her sister Susy, our son Adryan, Susy's three kids and a family friend. Guys in one room, women in the other.The pool was clean large and warmed by the sun.We ate a large dinner and turned in. At 5:00 a.m. we were up and by six o'clock, we were in two traditional boats heading out to see the dolphins. We were about 20 minutes out when the first small pod appeared.

They surfaced, played about and were gone - only to reappear in another area. This went on for half an hour or so. Then a larger group appeared. The two groups surfaced, dived, disappeared, raced the boats and delighted their audience.It is impossible not to feel a little like an alien watcher, privileged to witness a very personal kinship with nature.

The surrounding mountains were mist-cloaked shadows at the water's edge. The water was black in the pale early morning light, briefly disturbed by our bright colored boats and the sleek gray bodies that danced and dived around us.
Then it ended. We had spent almost two hours watching. It was impossible to tell who was more excited, the adults or the children.
After breakfast, Adryan and I went snorkeling. A reef lay about halfway between the shore and where we watched the dolphins. Again, we were in a traditional boat. A narrow canoe like craft with twin outriggers, a small (5.5 horsepower) outboard motor and an inverted, triangular-shaped, lanteen sail that also serves to shade our driver/guide as he naps.We don mask and flippers and enter the now blue waters. Colors explode around us. Angelfish, rainbow hued fish, blue neon tetras and unfortunately a few too many jelly fish. We moved location twice.Adryan managed to find a French coin. Once cleaned, it was revealed as a 1995 coin, but still a find. I had to rescue it from the pool bottom later that evening, so the excitement of discovery was obviously short-lived.We stayed two days then headed back to Denpasar.
We flew home that Saturday.

March, 2000
We just returned from Tretes.
Tretes is a small vacation village, an hour outside of Surabaya, and is built on and around the mountain. We stayed at a very nice hotel, the Surya, that's a bit rundown but has excellent service.
This morning I hiked for two hours in the mountains.
A friend owns one of the larger health clubs in Surabaya, and had invited us to join the hike. Thank God I've been running regularly at the gym.
Do you hike?
Man, there's a big difference between 5 km on a treadmill and two hours trekking over a mountain.
After the hike I had a massage back at the hotel and I'm ready to take on the world ... right after my nap.

December 18,1999
May all your wishes come true, and may your stockings be free of coal. We'll have Christmas dinner at one of the hotels. It's well nigh impossible to find a turkey in a local supermarket, so we have to depend on the International hotels.

On Tuesday December 14th we'll celebrate our 2nd anniversary. I think it'll be a quiet evening for two. On Saturday, December 19. At 7:00pm. We'll celebrate Momma's birthday.

Our plans have changed so many times this year, I've lost count. I think we've pretty much settled on a game plan but I wouldn't bet any money on it. First we were going home, then to Bali, then it was Jakarta, then Hong Kong ... and now who knows?

We're safe and we hope to enjoy our Christmas in a more or less Traditional manner. We'll have Christmas dinner at one of the hotels. It's well nigh impossible to find a turkey in a local supermarket, so we have to depend on the International hotels.

We're safe and we hope to enjoy our Christmas in a more or less traditional manner. It is the middle of Ramadan here. This is supposed to be a time of quiet reflection but somehow it's a time of petty theft and small explosions. Starting at four in the morning, the teenagers begin exploding firecrackers that have enough powder to sound like blasting caps. And I thought Duplessis family holidays used to be a bit too loud.
Sheesh, appreciate what you've got.

Indonesia is going through some growing pains, which the IMF is complicating, bit things are relatively stable here.

The IMF is still pushing for an end to fuel and energy subsidies, as it seems that they haven't clued in to the fact that this isn't a developed country with an adequate social net and most of these folks can pay the local prices. Local salaries work well enough in this economy. Labor and production costs reflect the awesome imbalance of a largely agrarian society with a marginal industrial base trying to struggle in a world economy.

Imagine the kid with the lemonade stand being told he has to pay taxes and employee benefits, and then being further taxed on his product. These people need a guided economy, not an enforced one.

There are a number of local monopolies here, that create market instability and there are a number of local industries - lumber and mining being the major ones, which are largely foreign controlled. They bring in money for a handful of govt. types bit none of the profits circulate. The money is sucked out. Foreigners love to talk about local corruption here, But who's the crook? ... the guy that takes the money or the jokers that egg him on and then share the pot with him. Once he's caught, they conveniently forget their role. There you have it; my simplistic world view. Hopeful holiday sentiment will now be administered to your dazed and addled spirit.

I hope things are going well for you.
We're doing okay here.

This is basically an update.

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Here, things are going well. The business is beginning to grow.
I thought I'd better drop you a short note and say hi.
How is everything?
Except for a couple of riots, Surabaya, at least, has been quiet.On Monday, Tuesday, and especially during Habibie's visit on Wednesday, traffic was nuts. Most of the so-called rioting was done by high school students. The action consisted of stone throwing, jumping into and out of trucks, running in the street and shouting obscenities at the passing army convoys. Basically it was a field trip for students in the Stupidity 101 program.

I was just remembering how beautiful a Canadian autumn can be.
I look forward to rediscovering the colors and smells of a September morning.
I've tried to tell Emily, the kids and my students about the long walks. How difficult to communicate the long moments spent admiring the golds, reds greens and browns. To feel the last warmth of the year on your face. To stare unashamedly into clear autumn skies. To breath deep of the cooling breeze. To taste greedily of the clean air. How to explain looking up at the sky and knowing that this brief, transitory experience has to be embraced and then tucked safely away as winter's approach is heralded in the ever-darkening skies.

I've been keeping up on some important news from home.
My brother's wife just had a baby boy. As far as seeing my first nephew, it looks as if it won't happen for awhile. We're looking at March at the earliest. We could be coming as late as September. Emily may be going to Hong Kong in a couple of weeks. We're hoping to make some new contacts. I'll keep you posted.
I've actually gained an incredibly large family here. Our niece Yay Jen had a birthday last night. I was working late, so I missed the party. This happens a bit too often, unfortunately. I either miss things, or show up late and overdressed. Men here generally favor Batik dress shirts. Batik is a tasteful Hawaiian shirt. Is tasteful stretching the point?

Pet Peeves
I have yet to 'go native'. When I go to a wedding, funeral or to work, I wear a tie. I do not wear sandals, and I still don't smoke. Being the only abstainer in a family of chain-smokers you can imagine what I feel about this delightful pastime.
I awoke at 4:00am with a major sinus headache. Emily spent two hours wrapping my face with hot towels. This helped a lot. We waited until 9:00am and made our way to Adi Husada. Loosely translated as Hussein's House of Apathetic Sadism.

I tolerated the hours-long wait. I tolerated the idiot questions. I tolerated the two-hour wait for results. Then my patience paid off. I was afforded the wondrous opportunity to witness a crowd of these caring souls gathering around a little old lady on a stretcher, and lighting up. There must have been eight or nine of these knights in shining ignorance.

Well, I lost it. Whether it was the elegant way I enunciated the 'F' word or my suggestions of their doubtful parentage, the crowd dispersed. Emily was not impressed. She's right. I don't like it, but she's right. I now reserve my anger, albeit subdued, for the guitar carrying miscreants who assemble at our gate.
It's bad enough on the street, but they've gone too far when they come to my home. One of the buggers had the nerve to ring the bell the other night. The servants also know not to give money to anyone at the door. This has been my rant for the day.

I've just signed to teach a few extra hours at one of the ritziest schools in Indonesia. It's smack dab in the middle of one of the swankest housing developments you could imagine. Do you know about Ciputraland This place looks like the set of Miami Vice. Pastel colors, and beach house motifs abound. You throw in a couple of Batik shirts and Don Johnson or Tom Selleck would feel right at home.
The school has facilities that I have rarely seen in Canada. Large classrooms, air-conditioning, well-stocked libraries, a video library, a computer lab, an art room, a large cafeteria, a wealth of teaching materials, and most surprisingly ... a playground.
This is a culture that treats physical exertion as a strange phenomenon. Ice-skating is still amazingly popular here. You'd be shocked how good some of the kids are. The one big problem with being on the ice with them; is their complete lack of awareness. In the middle of a group someone will kick out, do a spin or rush in for the sole purpose of stopping suddenly and causing a spray of ice.
I enjoy skating. I avail myself of the opportunity whenever Emily and her sisters decide to shop. We arrive at the mall together. They shop. I skate. Then we have lunch. Saturdays are mall days. They window-shop, I skate, we see a movie, then we eat.
I'll write more later. My company is having an Anniversary bash, and I've been suckered into the MC position. I think I need my sleep.

Zen
I'm trying hard to be more Zen ... whatever the heck that means. It occasionally works. I haven't been bit, scratched or swore at by any of my students. Taxi drivers do, on occasion, swear at me. It's amazing how selectively some people learn a language.
I have letters all ready to mail to family and friends, now I have to find a working post office. The regular postal service is a nightmare here. We visited the central post office in hopes of tracking some missing mail, both coming and going, but we ended up almost as lost as the mail. Hundreds of people, thousands of letters, and none of it in any obvious order. Ah well, that's Indonesia.
We're okay here. Both the kids are back at school, and Emily and I are too busy ... as usual. Work is going well. The business has been a bit shaky due to the rupiah's fluctuations, and also because of Hungry Ghost month in Hong Kong. During august the Chinese have to appease their ancestors with offerings of foods, gifts, and the burning of money ... usually a symbolic representation is used. It's very upsetting to the normal flow of business. The new airport in Hong Kong is also incredibly disorganized.
Well, that's life in Asia. The teaching is going well.

Tretes
Emily and I just returned from Tretes, a mountain village, a few minutes ago. We were actually at a church retreat. I didn't burst into flames as I entered church property so I suppose my soul is safe for the moment. It was nice. It was quite relaxing. By some miracle of divine intervention, or just dumb luck, the God Squad didn't attempt to lure me into their ranks. Emily has been very understanding about my quiet time. She knows that I believe. She doesn't understand why I feel no overwhelming need to wave my hands in the air and scream "GOD IS GREAT!"
Personally, I think the big guy knows the score, and flattery ain't gonna help if you screw up.

Life is going well.
I would like to return to doing some design work, but right now, and right here, I can provide for my family by teaching. It's not so bad. I enjoy teaching, and I'm good at it.
How's the gig?
I call home once a month.
We hope to be home by next October.

We just celebrated Year One.
On Saturday, December 19. At 7:00pm. We celebrated our 1st anniversary with a fish and lobster BBQ. Didn't you get your invitation? It would have been nice to have you there.
Singapore
I was in Singapore for a couple of nights. I'm quite happy to be home. I stayed in a little hotel near Chinatown. Monday was the Hindu festival, Deepavali ... the victory of good over evil. Boy, are they optimistic. Most of the city was as boring as ever. After this last trip, I don't think I'll think of Singapore in quite the same way as I used to.
A visit to the noodle house near the hotel quickly dispelled any lingering notions of Singapore's sterility. The midnight crowd consisted of three very mean looking Chinese men, four intoxicated Indians, and three of the ugliest, toughest looking hookers this side of a biker movie. I spent most of my time just walking around in Singapore. I hate shopping malls, so Singapore quickly grates on me. It is nice just to pick a direction and stroll for a few hours.
With the current situation here, walking around isn't really advisable. When I first came here I walked everywhere, and at anytime. Now we have daylight robberies, and midnight decapitations. All this for just pennies a day.

Meanwhile, back at the ranch ...
We just went through some minor renovations on the house. Most of the major work had been done at the same time as the rioting. If you can imagine watching coats of white paint being applied, plaster slapped on, and tiles replaced and buffed even as news reports of burning, riots and looting filled the airwaves; you can begin imagine the admixture of shock, anger, fear, fits of lunatic humor, cabin fever and darn fool stubbornness that gripped this household for a few weeks.

Emily's Business

We're exporting crabs right now. We have a small interest in lobster exports as well.
Since we only started last January, we still have a lot to learn. Most business here has a shelf life of a few months. Suppliers have no customer loyalty, and the concept of taking less hasn't sunk into fishermen, exporters or buyers. I sometimes fear I may be party to ecological rape, and economic suicide.
For us it's been a good experience. We made a good profit at the start, and then the bottom fell out of the market. We stopped exporting for a month. Emily's business was on hiatus. We've been up again for a couple of weeks.

My own job goes merrily along
I've just taken a few more hours, for a few more Rupiah. I'm still studying Bahasa Indonesian. It's coming along. It's stressful, but it's a great feeling to be able to throw a phrase together. I'm also better able to explain things to students, and that makes a world of difference. I still avoid speaking anything but English in class, since the students are quite ready and willing to take the cue to waste on hour while you steer them back to English. Everything is a balancing act here. Well, that's teaching.

Traditions
Daily life, family and religion; three shows daily under one roof. Emily and the kids were Buddhist up until a few years ago. After Emily's father died, she converted. The Christian religion here is probably closest to Baptist. Ain't that a frightening thought. Hey, I'm Catholic. Our idea of faith is a quick confession, three Hail Mary's and call me next Sunday. The churches here all seem to be of the charismatic variety. Which means, of course, that you've got your shouters, your shakers, your dancers, your prancers, your enthusiastic wavers and your quiet and composed prayers. I'm the quiet, uncomfortable one. I'm the sole practitioner of a splinter religion.
The kids have never had a traditional Christmas dinner. Emily had her first turkey dinner on our honeymoon in Singapore last year. She also saw her first Lion dance. We visited a cultural exposition.
I've made some changes in my life. I've actually attended church a few times. Emily and the kids go every Sunday. I'm trying to adjust, but I have to be honest; traditional Christianity still confuses me. I've also been able to witness the Buddhism that's practiced here. We've attended a few weddings, and a few too many funerals.
Emily's Mom, who lives with us, is Buddhist. The adjustment to such a close-knit family has been rewarding, irritating, incredible, frustrating, and ultimately highly recommended. Emily's two sisters and her brother are also Buddhist.
Indonesia's Buddhism is probably as fetish oriented as Korean Buddhism, with its chants, incense and rituals, but it's somehow encouraging to see any culture survive under such adverse conditions. A full blown Buddhist funeral is quite interesting. From the chanting, to the pacing of the maidens(no I'm not kidding), to the burning of the house, money, major appliances, cars and servants. These flammable offering are, thankfully, all paper representations.
Although I'm interested in knowing more about everything, unlike other tourists in Bali I had no wish to intrude on such a personal time. I can only imagine how these 'Gomers' would feel if a crowd showed up at ol' Aunt Tilly's sendoff.
"Don't mind us folks, we're just here to soak up the culture." "Could you lift up Aunt Tilly's chin a bit more. Now put this wine glass ..."

And Then ...
We had been hoping to get to Canada at Christmas, but it appears we'll wait until late September,1999. My teaching schedule keeps expanding, and while that may be good for our bank account it doesn't leave much free time. My wife has just returned from China, and we've been catching up. Between work and family I haven't had much time to even open my mail, much less reply to it. I'm currently dealing with a sinus infection. Emily has been great about preparing hot towels for me. Twenty minutes with those, and I can face the day.
Just so you don't think I've married some weak-willed Geisha, this helping works both ways. I've actually found a way to help Emily with her occasional migraines. I paid close attention to the old woman that gives us massages. I can now give a pretty decent foot massage. This has helped relieve Emily's pain to the point that she can sleep. She only has one or two migraines a month, but I know it hurts like hell.

Things are calm here now.

My friend Chris is also working at Ciputra. He and I have been teaching elementary school classes. Try to picture the two of us surrounded by rabid toddlers. Kind of scary, uh?
I hope Christmas finds you and your family safe and together. We'll have Christmas dinner at one of the hotels. It's well nigh impossible to find a turkey in a local supermarket, so we have to depend on the International hotels. We're safe and we hope to enjoy our Christmas in a more or less Traditional manner.

Anniversary
On Saturday, December 19. At 7:00pm. We celebrated our 1st anniversary with a fish and lobster BBQ. Didn't you get your invitation? It would have been nice to have you there.
I'll write more later.

Hello again I haven't heard from anyone for awhile.

Adryan has been helping more with the business lately.I suppose we have the beginning of a family legacy.

I'm up late because our dogs are indulging in their two favorite sports; chasing rats and pissing off Wayne.Rocky is the silent and resourceful hunter.He stakes out a spot; waits for the first signs of movement; then pounces.

He has also learned to pry the kitchen door open. In itself this isn't a problem, and would be a good reason to cheer his innovation and intelligence. It's just that this allows cats, and a particular gray bastard, to enter the house.

These cats, and certainly my particular favorite, has delighted in climbing atop the kitchen table and partaking of the assorted bounty. In the process they have broken plates, glasses, and God knows how many bowls.Aside from having almost no sleep for three months, life is going well.

Work is good, the business is good, and Surabaya is quiet.I think Emily and I will be back in Canada by October. We hope to stay for four or five weeks. We'll probably be joined by Emily's mom and her sisters.I'm working too many damn hours.I'm trying not to be a workaholic.

I avoid alcohol enough now, so that's not the worry it was.I find it difficult to turn away hours, but it has become a bit much.Life here is going well.

Occasionally there are bumps.We have a good life here, but I miss family, friends and a familiar landscape. I would love to return to Canada. There would be two conditions though:Could I find a decent job, and could Emily find work.Indonesia, or perhaps it's just teaching, is stressing me out right now, but it's the only viable gig I have.

I'm qualified to do other things.I'd like to write, I'd love to design, and it would be great to feel creative again ... but will it pay?I'd love to just teach computers, or writing again.

My buddy Chris and I have been talking about a couple of scripts. I know I can write, but I don't know thing one about marketing a script.The idea that keeps cropping up when you talk to people is a story about this life.There are eight million stories in the naked city, as the narrator said.

Maybe there are 10 or 15 really decent stories.

Bubbles and kebabs

2007-06-14T12:03:00.001+07:00

Sometimes being healthy is just taking a break
Family is doing well.

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I’m off for a week. A holiday that will, hopefully, be relaxing. Our weather here has been good. Generally hot, with the occasional thunderstorm. We’ve been staying home for the most part. We rent a nice place that has a decent garden. At least it’s become a garden with Emily’s gentle coaxing.
We've been able to have a few meals outside. It's a nice place for the kids to play; especially for Jiji who likes to blow bubbles.
I hope you find a place to put up your heels,eat some kebabs and watch the bubbles float lazily into the late afternoon sky.
All the best, Wayne

A pain in the back

2007-06-10T01:12:00.001+07:00

A friend wrote to explain why she hadn’t wrote.
As with many of us she suffers from back pain.
Her pain is severe.Mine is annoying.
I’ve had some problems with a herniated disk that I didn’t know I had.

I’d had back pain for years, and just put it down to a pinched-nerve.Experiencing winter again in China brought the pain back in spades.
I decided to go to a traditional therapist.He placed two fingers on my shoulder and you’d think that a sledgehammer, dipped in lava, had slammed me.I screamed loud enough to pull people out of the halls into the examination room.
Thankfully the doctor was working in a fairly modern facility. He arranged an MRI and discovered the herniated disk.
I’ve since had traditional therapy here in Indonesia. I’m fine, but I can still draw crowds with my screaming.

Something I've neglected for a long time is a thank you. Our friend Wu Lin(Jacky) in Changsha helped me to find the traditional hospital. Thank you Jacky.

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Stay Healthy
Don't take your friends for granted
All the best,Wayne

Creation takes time

2007-06-09T23:16:00.001+07:00

TEFL Training in Surabaya

It will happen very soon. Our first trainees will be local students. We will train local(Indonesian) teachers and foreign teachers. We’re also looking for recruiters in Canada and the United States.
I’ve been working with TEFL International to open a training center in Surabaya.

We’ve had our training school ready to go for some time.
Genesis has taken longer than expected.
We are continuing.
Look for us.
Join us.

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Mess

2007-06-09T22:45:00.006+07:00

A startling testimony to the power of confusion

My life is a mess. Now before you start recommending therapy, self-help, medication, or herbal enemas; I’d better explain myself. I’m not talking about drug use, or alcohol abuse, or spousal neglect, and certainly not about spousal abuse.
No, the mess I’m in is more of a clutter. I’ve things to do, things to place, some places to go, and faces to place, then things to write and always clocks to race.I had every intention of writing a column a week. Well, a week passed, and then another and nothing happened.

My wife, in the meantime, has started a successful export business with precious little help from yours truly. Oh sure, I work. I even spend time with the kids and I tell outrageous lies to whoever is polite enough to listen or too dumb to run away. I call the time I’ve spent prevaricating, teaching.
I enjoy teaching, I love my wife and my kids, but the writing, luring me to the notebook or the computer, is some form of polite S&M.

When I don’t write, I’m tortured by imaginative, incredible, and sometimes inane visions. When I do write, I release these visions only to be rewarded by a large slick of spewed forth, half-digested textual tapioca within which I can sometimes find a nugget of good chewy stuff.

I feel an overwhelming urge to re-ingest this morsel and present it later as food for thought.
So I’m a half-baked writer with delusions of modesty and an overwhelming urge to appeal to the lowest common denominator.

I’ve actually found my therapy. I revel in the mess. I’m actually finding a way through the swamp. I enjoy the tattered landscape.
If I ever have the will power to clean, organize, re-evaluate, and chart a navigable course; I’ll end up more confused than I already am.

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A thumb is an uncomfortable place to sit

2007-06-09T22:39:00.001+07:00

As so many others(as if that's an excuse)I've spent too much time sitting on my thumb and contemplating my navel.
I write, but am I writer?
I teach and I get paid to do that.
I write for my students.
I wrote for newspapers.
I used to interview assorted and sundry celebrities.

Am I writer?

Once I can crawl off my thumb, I'll let you know.
All the best,Wayne

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