When you work abroad as a marketing executive or computer programmer, you're bound to learn about the country's customs. But teaching English abroad -- often to young people typically eager to teach you about their own culture -- may be an unrivalled route to quickly learning about another country.

A number of programs exist for individuals interested in teaching English abroad. Typically, you do not need to know the host country's language -- training may be offered in the US or when you arrive. Some of the best teach-abroad programs, such as the Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme, provide housing, travel expenses and a salary, while others are essentially volunteer operations, geared toward providing a unique cultural experience. A list of programs is available from the University of California at Irvine's Center for International Education. Here are five:

Central European Teaching Program (CETP)

Based at the World Affairs Center of Beloit College in Beloit, Wisconsin, CETP provides English teachers to public schools in Hungary, Romania and Poland. CETP teachers include recent college grads, mid-career professionals on sabbatical and retired couples. Contracts are typically for 10 months, lasting from September to June. A week-long orientation in the host country is provided. Teachers are paid on the same pay scale as local teachers. The host school or local government provides accommodations -- typically a furnished apartment near the school.

English Program in Korea (EPIK)

EPIK allows university graduates to experience Korean culture and build a professional teaching career. Cosponsored by the Ministry of Education and the Provincial Offices of Education, the program provides a monthly salary, an apartment or house, and airfare. Contracts may be renewed for several years. Applicants under age 45 are preferred. Teachers typically conduct English conversational classes for Korean teachers and students, help prepare teaching materials and assist with extracurricular activities.

Hess Educational Organization

Hess Educational Organization offers college graduates the experience of living and working in Taiwan. With more than 100 language schools and 40 kindergartens island-wide, Hess is the largest language school in Taiwan. Teachers are trained in the Hess curriculum and receive a salary. Teachers should be native English speakers, with preference given to those who know the phonics teaching method. Contracts are for one year.

The Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme

JET places English speakers in Japanese schools, aiming to, "enhance internationalization," in Japan, and foster ties between young people in Japan and other nations. The program is open to college graduates from the US and other countries. JET provides post-arrival orientations, midyear training and other programs for its teachers. More than 2,400 host institutions in Japan participated in JET in 2000.

WorldTeach

A nonprofit organization based at Harvard University's Center for International Development, WorldTeach places teachers in developing countries throughout Asia, Latin America, Africa and Eastern Europe. Participants must cover their own expenses for airfare, orientation and other program fees. The host community or school typically provides a salary equivalent to what a local teacher earns, generally enough to cover living expenses. Teachers live with local families or in apartments.

When researching teach-abroad programs, keep the following in mind:

Watch for Unexpected Fees

Even salaried jobs may require you to pay for travel expenses and work permits. What's more, volunteer programs sometimes require you to fundraise to pay for your trip. Some teach-abroad programs offer degrees in teaching English as a Second Language as part of the package -- an attractive option, if that's your career goal, but a costly one too.

Talk to Former Teachers

Ask your program contact for the names of former teachers -- typically the best resource for learning what the experience will be like. Some programs, such as JET, even have alumni organizations for former teachers. Ask about the quality of training and accommodations, the need to learn the language and other challenges you might not have considered.

Plan Your Next Move

If you hope to remain in another country as a teacher, inquire about the likelihood of such a transition. English language schools, or even colleges, sometimes draw on these programs for teachers. If that's your goal, you want a program with a stellar reputation.