Everyone dreams of touring the world one day. You get to see exotic places, meet new people and experience new cultures. But being a tourist remains just a dream for most people. Rising airfares and the high cost of accommodation has prevented all but a chosen few from touring the globe. Yet, it is not only possible to travel the world for free, but even earn some money in the process. Here are five great ways that you can get paid to travel.
Become a Flight Attendant
A flight attendant’s job is not as demanding as is commonly assumed. You work for only 80 hours a month – that is a mere 20 hours a week – and still get to earn $25,000 to $50,000. To top it all, you get to travel to far-flung places, and get travel benefits for your family as well.
Work on a Cruise Ship
A job on a cruise line is perfect for people who love traveling in a laid-back manner, or who are afraid of flying. But although the pay is lower than that paid by airlines, and the working hours are longer, you have more workmates to bond with. You and the rest of the crew will also enjoy private dining halls, shops, gyms and party areas. Working on a cruise ship can be a great experience as long as you have realistic expectations.
Work as a Tour Guide
Imagine earning a living showing people what you consider to be your dream destination – say, Venice, Rome or Paris. That is possible as a tourist guide. For long term work, consider working for a local touring company. The pay is better and you have job security. On the flip-side it ties you down to one spot, and you will tend to follow an established routine that can become boring in time.
For some quick short-term cash and freedom to do your own thing, try to work as a freelancer. You become your own boss and use your personality to earn your keep. However, if you’re going to be a tour guide, you have to act like a professional. Contact a reliable company such as Folder Printing and have them prepare professional pamphlets that you’ll be able to pass to your visitors. Strike deals with local restaurants and attractions and offer to promote them for a fee. The opportunities are endless for tour guides who are ready to do the extra leg work and get creative.
Write for a Travel Guidebook
To decide on where to spend their vacation, people rely on travel guidebooks such as Lonely Planet which, in turn, rely on guidebook researchers. As a researcher, you will fly different places to try exotic cuisines, cultures and hotels. But be warned, although you write for people on holiday, your job is anything but one.
Write a Travel Blog
Instead for writing for a travel guidebook company, you write for your own travel blog for the benefit of social media followers. You can make money once you have a large following.
You do not need to save for many years to travel the world. In fact, you do not need to have a dime.