Have you ever dreamed of becoming a world explorer? Do you want to explore exotic places and immerse yourself in their incredible cultures? The life of a traveling nomad can be exciting and rewarding, but unless your rich uncle left you a large inheritance, you’ll need to find a way to support yourself. Fortunately, you have many options. If you plan to live abroad for an extended period of time, consider these popular job opportunities.
Summer counselor
English summer camps for children are very popular throughout Europe, especially in Poland, France, Italy and Austria. There is always a high demand for native English speakers, and in many cases the only qualifications are a positive attitude and the ability to work with children. In addition to free room and board, these camps often pay very well. The downside is that you’ll be expected to stay at the camp for the duration of your shift, but the camps nonetheless provide travelers with plenty of outdoor opportunities, including mountain hikes and swimming in pristine lakes.
Volunteer vacancies
If you prefer to gain cross-cultural experience while doing something altruistic, consider volunteering in Asia. Although this is usually unpaid work, food and accommodation are usually provided. Thailand and Vietnam are very cheap, so if you have saved up even a little money, you can probably stretch it. If you are an American citizen, the Peace Corps is another worthwhile endeavor. The application process is competitive and a two-year commitment is required to be a PCV, but you will get plenty of time off to explore the host country as well as neighboring ones.
Bartender
What could be more exciting than a party? How about getting paid for it! Bars and nightclubs all over the world are looking for good bartenders. Do you think you can handle this task? Whether you’re going to settle in Bali, Barcelona or Budapest, if you know how to drink spirits and have a knack for mixing cocktails, there’s a bartending job waiting for you. Visit the bars and show off your networking skills. Or just show up and ask at the bar if they’re hiring. Since bartenders are usually paid in cash, you don’t even have to worry about getting a work permit.
Cruise ship worker
Why not sail the seven seas and make some money while doing it! There are many different opportunities to work on board a cruise ship, whether it’s in retail, hospitality, engineering or even as a black jack dealer. In addition to free lodging, insurance, and food for several weeks, you’ll get to relax in tropical locations and beautiful historic cities during your vacation.
Freelance letter
If you love to write and enjoy working on your own schedule, working as a freelance writer is the perfect way to support yourself while you travel and live abroad. This may include writing your own blog, translating texts from one language to another, or editing and improving site content. Many companies offer you the option to decline project offers if you need time off or are simply not interested in that particular task.
Street artist
Are you a decent musician or perhaps a charismatic performer who can draw a crowd? If you have a special talent that sets you apart from the rest, you can earn good money during the sun-drenched summer months in Paris, Berlin or Sydney. Of course, you wouldn’t want to just find a random corner and hope for the best. Don’t forget to develop a proper plan before you get that guitar out. Also note that some cities require a permit, so make sure you follow any legal regulations.
IT freelancer
Like freelancers, you can rake in the dough on your own schedule if you have website design or computer programming skills. In fact, if you choose to travel to countries where the cost of living is low (such as Eastern Europe or many parts of Asia), you can practically live like a king on your salary.
TEFL teacher
Teaching English as a foreign language can be a lucrative profession, especially in places like China and South Korea. Unlike teaching English in Europe, where certification requirements can be strict, Asian countries are often happy to settle for teachers who are simply native speakers, regardless of experience. In fact, schools often pay for your flight and accommodation, saving you even more money!
Free walking tour
In the early 2000s, a few enterprising guides began to realize that they could make a living by giving tourists the freedom to offer a donation rather than paying a set price for a walking tour. The concept caught on (it turns out that satisfied tourists can be very generous), and today almost every major city in Europe offers them. If you have an energetic personality, a great sense of humor and a willingness to dedicate yourself to exploring the city’s hidden gems, you may have what it takes to be a tour guide. Don’t have your own website yet? Facebook and Couch Surfing can serve as free and easy-to-use platforms to advertise your tours. Once you earn a reputation, the sky’s the limit!
Hostel administrator
Imagine being paid to interact with travelers. As a hostel receptionist, this can be your reality! Youth hostels are always looking for young, adventurous, laid-back people who are a perfect reflection of the guests the hostel is looking for. As long as you can handle the occasional night shift and make sure guests behave more or less well, this job deserves your attention.
economy
An au pair is a young foreigner who does housework and childcare for a host family in exchange for free room and board. While most people think of it solely as a nanny job that involves countless diapers and crying babies, you might be surprised to learn that there are many Au Pair programs that include caring for older children and even helping them in learning a foreign language. Please note that while most Au Pair programs are for women, there are opportunities for men as well.
Working holiday visas
If you are 18-30 years old, it is possible to spend 6 months to a year working abroad without the need for sponsorship. For example, US citizens can use this program in Ireland, Singapore, Australia, South Korea and New Zealand. But citizens of other countries, especially those that are part of the European Union, have similar agreements.
