Working on a cruise ship is one viable option for travel addicts, while others with babysitting experience can travel throughout Europe as Au Pairs. And those willing to commit for a longer period of time can teach English abroad or join the Peace Corps.
The highest demand for ESL teachers right now is in Asia. Most schools in Asia require their teachers have a bachelors degree, while many other parts of the world, such as Europe, often require TESL certification. In general, the British accent is preferred in Europe, while the American accent is welcome in Mexico and most parts of Asia.
Packages for teachers in Asia are usually generous, and include paid airfare, a free apartment, a month’s free pay, two weeks paid vacation, half off or free health insurance, and an annual salary of approximately $21,000. Most contracts are for at least a year.
Become an Au Pair
Being an au pair, or basically a live-in nanny, gives you the chance to explore another part of the world without having to worry about finding a place to live or figure out your way around the city by yourself.
Your host family gives you free room and board. In return, the au pair takes care of the children and often helps with simple household chores like cleaning and cooking. Many families prefer having an au pair from another country so that their children can learn to speak English better or learn more about their au pair’s culture.
Au pairs are popular to have during the summer, although contracts can last from three months to a year or more. Nevertheless, application and program fees (if done through an agency) often cost from $300 to $500 plus travel expenses. Requirements for an au pair usually include prior babysitting experience or other experience with children.
Work on a Cruise Ship
One way to travel the world while still supporting yourself is to work on a cruise ship. Workers get all the benefits of being on a cruise without having to pay the price. Applicants should note that certain jobs, such as waiters or waitresses, require long work hours and many do not have time to leave the ship to explore. Jobs such as an entertainer or gift shop worker, however, are able to leave the ship when it is in port. Those interested can apply directly to the cruise line they would like to work for at their Web sites.
Join the Peace Corps
The Peace Corps is not for the faint hearted, and requires a two year contract. Nonetheless, those who have taken the challenge often claim it is, “the best thing they have ever done.”
According to peacecorps.gov, the Peace Corps provides free housing for their volunteers, as well as $6,000 upon completion of their two years of service, and loan deferment. In addition, some universities offer a masters degree program as part of the Peace Corps experience in a variety of different degree programs. Details vary depending on the program.
Thus, no matter your situation, working abroad is a realistic and fairly inexpensive option. Although working abroad will likely not make you rich, you can still live comfortably while seeing the world.
Kayda Norman - Kayda Norman is a freelance writer who has written about numerous topics including travel, community events, politics, and consumer news. ...
