Young Australian teacher looking to teach at an IB school – recommendations on locations?

Hi everyone,

I'm based in Sydney, Australia, and have been teaching in NSW public schools for the past two years. I've only taught the Australian curriculum and don't have many connections in the international school world, so I'd love to hear from people with experience.

My background is:
- Bachelor's degree in Writing
- Master's degree in Education
- Currently completing a Postgraduate Diploma in International Education, which has been approved by the IBO and will qualify me to teach the IB Diploma Programme (DP)
- Currently accredited to teach English Literature and English as an Additional Language or Dialect (EALD)

I'm starting to research where I should apply and would love recommendations, particularly in Europe. Spain (especially Madrid) is high on my list, although I've heard Italy can be quite expensive. I'm also considering South America and even Istanbul, as I've noticed many international/private schools there pay in USD or lira while also providing accommodation and transport and still close to Europe.

Before anyone says that it's unrealistic to go straight to Europe as a non-EU citizen or that I should spend years teaching in Asia first, I completely understand that's the common advice. However, my main motivation for moving overseas is the lifestyle and experience rather than maximising my career progression or salary. If my priority was purely career growth and income, I'd stay in Australia, where teaching is well paid and there are plenty of opportunities. I'm open to both IB and other private schools.

I'm looking for cities that offer:
- A lively lifestyle with a good social scene
- An easy place to meet people and make friends
- Nice weather
- Affordable living on an international school salary (I'm happy with a studio apartment or a house share)
- A walkable city with good public transport that's easy to navigate while settling in

I'd really appreciate any recommendations, experiences, or cities I should (or shouldn't) consider. Thanks!