Want to get paid to travel? Looking for an unconventional job, one that is definitely not nine-to-five? Hate working at a desk? Here are a few general occupations and work abroad programs that offer great opportunities for college students, recent grads, or anyone with a desire to travel the world!
For the Student or Recent Grad: STA Travel's Intern Program
This year, STA Travel chose two interns among a large pool of applicants. The summer interns are paid to travel the world. Learn more about the program on STA Travel's website. STA also offers other opportunities in addition to the intern program, including paid work overseas as an au pair or teacher. While those particular jobs are based more in one location, the work schedule offers more opportunities (i.e. free time) to travel.
For the Seafaring Types: Jobs in the Hospitality Industry
Hop on a cruise ship and see the world! This is a fun opportunity for someone interested in a career in the travel/hospitality industry. Check out the Human Resources pages on Carnival, Norwegian, Disney, Celebrity, Royal Caribbean, and more to find jobs ranging from guest services to management to entertainment. On the Carnival Cruise Line's website, go to "About Us" and click "Fun Jobs." Case in point.
For the Extra-Adventurous: Jobs as a Tour Guide Abroad
Become a tour guide abroad and get paid to lead groups around various parts of the world! Check out companies like Contiki or Intrepid Travel for opportunities. Tour guides should possess great communication skills and leadership ability. It is also necessary to be capable of dealing with unpredictable situations (from ill tourists to lost tourists to bad weather to necessary detours), as this is something many tour guides, especially adventure guides, have to deal with on a regular basis.
For the Creative Types: Jobs as a Travel Writer
Check out travel guides like Fodor's for opportunities to get paid while living abroad (and traveling). Most jobs are freelance, so working for more than one publication is usually necessary in order to make a living. Travel writers provide useful information for tourists that goes beyond talking about fun attractions in a particular country; a travel writer should be able to provide insider information about various destinations.
Getting paid to travel can be a dream job for someone who has the energy for it. From tour guide to travel intern to cruise entertainer to travel writer, there are fun opportunities for anyone with a sense of adventure and a desire to see the world.
 |
