Finding a job that lets you explore the world is a dream come true for many. The thrill of waking up in a new city every morning and hitting the open road is wonderful. Of course, it’s not for everyone, but those with itchy feet will appreciate this article. For some people, it’s crucial to integrate travel into their lives. It helps give them perspective on the world and open them up to new experiences. If that sounds like you, here is a short list of career choices you could follow.
1. Freelance writing
So long as you have an internet connection and a flair for words, you can write from anywhere in the world. Many writers travel from place to place, working from coffee shops and reporting on the world around them. Breaking into travel journalism is no easy feat, and you’ll need plenty of freelance experience behind you. It can all start with a simple blog or website of your own. From there, just keep pitching to those big travel guides and adventure magazines.
2. Photography
Much like freelance writing, photography could lead you all over the world. Newspapers and magazines are always looking for new and striking imagery to accompany their articles. You could be the one to provide them. Like freelance writing, it’s not easy to break into the lucrative sectors without lots of experience. There is also more competition than ever with the increased affordability of digital cameras and editing software. But, if you’re passionate and determined, you can make it happen.
3. Travel agent
It’s one of the most obvious routes into travel, but a sensible choice. Travel agents split their time between office work and travel. Most respected travel agents are expected to sample and experience the holidays they are selling. That means free trips to hotels and distant destinations. The downside is lots of office work and hitting the phones in the alternative periods.
4. Hospitality Jobs
With a diploma in hotel management, working for a major hotel chain is a great way to experience the world. As you move up the ranks, you’ll get the opportunity to work anywhere on the planet. Most of the biggest hotel chains have luxury hotels in every city in the world. The likes of Hilton and Marriot like to provide lifelong careers for their employees. They also offer them the opportunity to work in their preferred locations where possible.
5. Drivers
Drivers spend their days traveling from place to place. For some people, it’s all about the journey. Hitting the open road and driving across the country is one of the purest ways to experience the world. It’s an easy entry into the career too. To drive trucks, all you need to do is take the CDL Hazmat test, and you’re ready to hit the road. The job could take you across continents and to plenty of new places.
6. The military
A career in the armed forces could take you anywhere in the world. Warzones may not be your typical travel destination, but you’ll certainly experience new corners of our planet. It’s not just on deployment that you’ll experience the world though. Most military training takes place abroad. American military personnel can expect to train in Germany, Japan, or Brazil, to name just a few. Naturally, this is a risky career choice, but if you’ve got the right mindset, it could be perfect for you.
7. Teach and instruct
Every country on the planet needs teachers and instructors. One of the most popular travelling jobs is teaching English as a foreign language. You’ll travel to China, Saudi Arabia, or Africa to teach young children the basics of English. It’s surprisingly easy to follow this route, and a simple qualification will set you up perfectly. As for instructors, well you can use your skills, experience, and passions here. Why not teach skiing in the French alps? Or surfing in Australia? You could teach rock climbing in New Zealand or yoga in Italy. The possibilities are endless with this one.
8. Charity and volunteer work
Most major charities are stationed in developing countries to help the communities. For example, Oxfam has an enormous presence in Africa while the WWF has stations all around the world. Working for one of these charities is a chance to explore the troubled areas of the world first-hand. You can help rebuild communities and take vital measurements and information. Again, follow your passions and see where it takes you.
9. Events
The events and entertainment industry is one of the most lucrative on the planet. You could join a full-scale touring company that supports the biggest pop stars and bands. How about taking a job with festival organisers or a career in event management? There are theatre companies in every country in the world too. Find the area that excites you and find your first step in the door.
10. Pilot or flight attendant
This career path is perhaps the most obvious travel occupation of all. The very job description means you’ll be waking up in a new country every single day. Depending on the airline you work for, you could find yourself in the far corners of the planet. Becoming a flight attendant is a relatively easy process. A short period of training is followed by a series of practical and written exams. Once they’re under your belt, you’re free to fly! As for pilots, it’s a somewhat longer process. Many get their start in the RAF, flying fighter planes and learning the basics. Then they make the transition to commercial jets. For others, it’s a long and expensive training process through the commercial companies themselves. It’s all worth it in the end though.
11. Au Pair
Childcare is needed throughout the modern world. The industry is particularly treasured in Europe. If you’re looking for a way to explore France, Italy and Germany while making some money, this is an excellent option.
Finding a job that satisfies you intellectually and indulges your love of travel is never easy. Hopefully, these suggestions have sparked some new ideas. Good luck with your new career!