Entry-Level Jobs That Offer Travel Opportunities

If you're looking for an entry-level job that will allow you to travel, there are a variety of options to consider. Here are some popular choices:

- English teacher abroad: Teach English as a Second Language (ESL) to students in different countries. You'll likely need a bachelor's degree and some teaching experience.

- Flight attendant: Work for an airline and fly all over the world. You'll get time off between flights to explore new cities.

- Cruise ship worker: Work on a cruise ship and travel to various ports and cities. You'll also get free lodging and meals.

- Hotel professional: Work in hospitality and transfer between hotels in different locations every 6-12 months.

- Travel technician: Also known as a field service technician or engineer, you'll provide on-site installation, service, and maintenance for clients in different places.

- Travel nurse: Work temporarily in hospitals or clinics with staff shortages. You can find contracts ranging from 8 weeks to 2 years.

- International operations specialist: Act as the main communicator between a company's offices in various countries, ensuring compliance with local laws and strengthening relationships.

- Travel agent: Help create travel plans and provide expertise for people travelling to different destinations.

Teaching English as a foreign language

EFL teachers will need to:

• Plan, prepare and deliver lessons to a range of classes and age groups
• Prepare and set tests, examination papers and exercises
• Mark and provide appropriate feedback on oral and written work
• Devise, write and produce new materials, including audio and visual resources
• Organise and get involved in social and cultural activities
• Attend and contribute to training sessions
• Market the language school
• Prepare for inspection visits and other quality assurance exercises
• Undertake administrative tasks, such as keeping student registers and attendance records

EFL teachers can work in a range of settings, including:

• Commercial language schools
• Schools and institutions of further and higher education
• Businesses and companies
• Refugee camps and volunteer organisations

EFL teachers can find work in many countries, including Japan, China, other East Asian countries, the Middle East, parts of Eastern Europe, and Spain, Italy and Germany.

Qualifications

To become an EFL teacher, you will need a bachelor's degree or equivalent, and a TEFL qualification. The most common TEFL qualifications are:

• Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (CELTA), awarded by Cambridge Assessment English
• Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (CertTESOL), awarded by Trinity College London

You will also need:

• An excellent standard of English
• A-levels or equivalent qualifications
• To be 18 or over (sometimes 20 or 21)
• Qualifications that would allow you to enter higher education in your home country (e.g. A-levels or equivalent in the UK)

Salary

Salaries vary depending on the country and employer. In the UK, salaries range from £14,000 to £25,000 for entry-level positions, and can exceed £35,000 with experience and further qualifications. In China, salaries can be as high as ¥20,000 RMB per month for experienced applicants in major cities. In the United Arab Emirates, salaries vary by school, but fringe benefits can include housing, flights, and insurance.

Working in hospitality

One of the biggest advantages of working in hospitality is the ability to transfer between properties. Many hospitality companies have multiple locations, and employees can easily move from one property to another, usually every 6-12 months. This allows hospitality workers to live and work in different places without having to switch jobs or companies.

For example, you could work as a receptionist at a hotel in a desirable location for a year, and then transfer to another hotel in a different city or country within the same company. This way, you can explore new places while also building your career and gaining valuable experience in the hospitality industry.

In addition to the ability to transfer between properties, hospitality jobs often come with perks such as free or discounted accommodation, meals, and even travel allowances. This makes it even easier to travel and save money while working in the industry.

Another benefit of working in hospitality is the opportunity for quick career progression. It is common for employees to start in entry-level positions and work their way up to management roles within a year or two. This means that you can gain new skills, take on more responsibilities, and increase your earnings while also having the flexibility to travel and explore new places.

Hospitality jobs can also be a great way to meet people from all over the world, both colleagues and guests. This can lead to new friendships, professional connections, and even future career opportunities.

Overall, working in hospitality can be an excellent option for those seeking to travel and work at the same time. It offers a unique combination of stability, career growth, and the ability to explore new places and cultures. So if you're looking for an entry-level position that allows you to travel, consider starting your career in hospitality.

Working on a cruise ship

Cruise Staff

As a member of the cruise staff, you will be responsible for conducting a variety of onboard activities for guests to enjoy. Activities range from trivia games and contests to themed parties and dance lessons. This team is also in charge of hosting special events onboard, including guest performers, group exercise classes, and even the occasional conga line! While prior experience in the entertainment and hospitality field is usually required, some cruise lines offer entry-level positions with excellent incentives and opportunities for career growth.

Food & Beverage Administration

The Food and Beverage Administration team ensures an excellent guest experience through exceptional dining venues and fun, exotic drinks. As a member of this team, you will also be responsible for identifying process improvements, reviewing operational concerns, ensuring compliance with policies and procedures, and analyzing daily revenue and cost activities. Entry-level positions are available in the Bar and Restaurant departments, as well as in the Culinary department. Prior experience in a restaurant, preferably in fine dining, and good communication skills are typically required.

Housekeeping Department

The Housekeeping department maintains the highest level of cleanliness and service in guest staterooms, public areas, and open decks, as well as providing laundry services to guests and crew members. Entry-level positions include Utility Cleaner, Accommodations Attendant, and Laundry Steward. Prior experience in the hospitality industry, good verbal communication skills, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment with minimal supervision are generally required.

Pursers Department

The Pursers department is the center of hotel operations onboard and encompasses a variety of roles. The Junior Assistant Purser is the entry-level position in this department. Responsibilities include providing exceptional customer service to guests, assisting with account inquiries, resolving customer service issues, and answering telephone calls. A minimum of two years of experience in the hotel/hospitality industry, computer literacy, experience with large volume cash handling, and excellent customer service skills are typically required.

Other Opportunities

In addition to the departments mentioned above, there are other opportunities for entry-level positions on a cruise ship. For example, the Deck department, which is responsible for navigating the ship and managing safety-related matters, offers entry-level roles such as Deck Clerk, Trainee, and Cadet. The Technical department, which is in charge of the efficient and cost-effective operation and maintenance of all onboard machinery and equipment, also has entry-level positions. These roles may include Electro-Technical staff, who assist in the operation, inspection, and repair of shipboard electrical systems, and Production staff, who assist in the maintenance of equipment and scenery for entertainment productions.

Working in tourism

If you're interested in working in tourism, there are a variety of entry-level positions that can allow you to travel and live abroad. Here are some options to consider:

• Hotel jobs: Working in hotels can offer a great opportunity to travel and explore new places. Positions such as receptionists, hotel managers, or bartenders are often available in different countries, allowing you to transfer between properties and live in new locations every 6-12 months. This industry also offers quick career progression, with the possibility to start in an entry-level role and move up to management within a year.
• Travel agents and advisors: These roles involve assisting clients in finding and booking their dream vacations. They can be a great way to gain expertise in the travel industry and often come with excellent travel benefits, such as paid time off to cruise or explore other destinations.
• Tourism partner relations representative: This role involves attending industry events and maintaining relationships with tourism partners. It can be a great way to network and learn about different aspects of the industry while also offering the potential for travel.
• Event planner: If you're interested in a career in event management, consider looking for jobs with travel companies or event agencies that organise trips and events in exotic locations. This could allow you to travel to different places for work while also gaining experience in the events industry.
• Cruise ship jobs: Working on a cruise ship offers the opportunity to travel globally and explore various ports of call. In addition to free lodging and meals, cruise ship jobs often provide the chance to connect with people from all over the world, strengthening your network and enhancing your job satisfaction.
• Au pair or nanny: These roles involve providing childcare and sometimes light housekeeping services for families, often in exchange for free accommodation, meals, and a stipend. It's a great way to immerse yourself in a new culture, gain childcare experience, and travel with the family during your time off.
• Tourist entertainer: If you have a flair for performance and enjoy working with people, consider becoming a tourist entertainer. These roles are often found in hotels or resorts and involve conducting and participating in celebratory events to entertain guests. Bilingualism is a plus, as it allows you to work with a diverse range of travellers.
• Travel photographer: If you have a passion for photography and travel, consider combining the two by becoming a travelling photographer. This career path may involve selling your photographs, licensing them, or taking on client work. It requires patience, dedication, and business acumen to succeed.
• Seasonal jobs: Consider taking on seasonal work in destinations you want to explore. For example, you could work as a ski instructor during the winter in a place like Switzerland, or find a summer job at a resort or hotel. Seasonal jobs often provide a great balance between work and personal travel, allowing you to earn money while also having time to explore your surroundings.

Working as a flight attendant

Job Description:

Flight attendants are responsible for various tasks that ensure the safety and comfort of passengers. These include:

• Attending pre-flight briefings with pilots to receive flight information.
• Inspecting emergency equipment and ensuring the cabin is clean and well-stocked.
• Helping passengers with seating, demonstrating safety procedures, and providing snacks and beverages.
• Assisting passengers with special needs, such as those with disabilities or travelling with small children.
• Responding to disruptive passengers and addressing any suspicious behaviour.
• Dealing with emergencies, such as directing evacuations and administering first aid.

Requirements and Training:

To become a flight attendant, you must be at least 18 or 21 years old, depending on the state or employer. Other requirements include having a current passport, 20/40 vision, and passing a drug test and background check. Some airlines may also have specific height requirements.

Flight attendants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. While a degree is not always required, some airlines may prefer candidates with an associate's or bachelor's degree. Additionally, work experience in customer service roles is advantageous and can improve your employability.

Once hired, flight attendants undergo on-the-job training provided by the airline, which can range from three to six weeks to up to six months. This training covers safety and emergency procedures, first aid, flight regulations, and job-specific duties.

Work Schedule and Environment:

Flight attendants have variable work schedules, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as airlines operate every day with some offering overnight flights. They may be away from home for several nights a week and often spend nights in hotels between flights.

The work can be challenging and tiring, as it involves dealing with potential emergencies, air turbulence, and standing for long periods. Additionally, handling emergencies and unruly customers can be stressful.

Salary and Job Outlook:

The median annual wage for flight attendants was $68,370 in May 2023. However, salaries can vary based on experience, location, and the specific airline employer.

The job outlook for flight attendants is positive, with employment projected to grow by 10% from 2023 to 2033, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by the continued demand for air travel and the need to ensure passenger safety and comfort.

Benefits and Challenges:

Frequently asked questions