Whether you’re looking for work outside the normal nine-to-five or just need a change of scene, you might be thinking of a career in the travel and tourism industry. This kind of work allows you to earn money while traveling the world– gaining both life experience and work experience in the places you’ve always wanted to see. There are a variety of jobs available in the travel and tourism sector. Below, you’ll see just a few of the most popular ones. For more travel and tourism career opportunities, do an online search or check in the local newspapers.

Travel Agent

One of the most obvious and traditional choices when considering a career in tourism is working as a travel agent. Though in recent years vacation planning via the internet has become increasingly popular, travel agents help to simplify what is still a complicated process. They give advice on destinations, book flights, rental cars, hotels, and tours, and provide information about visas, customs, etc., for international travel.

While working as a travel agent might not provide as many travel opportunities or freedom as other tourism-related careers, about 15% of travel agents are self-employed, allowing them to choose their location and set their own hours. This can be a good career for somebody looking for stability and self-employment opportunities.

Travel Writer or Photographer

If you have a flair for language or a talent with the camera, you might want to consider a career as a travel writer or photographer. Travel writers visit cities and countries around the world, writing stories and taking pictures of the places and cultures they experience. Unfortunately, travel writing is a difficult industry to break into, but once you do it, you can expect a lifetime if travel, adventure, and doing what you love.

Flight Attendants

One of the most glamorous jet-setting careers you can have is working as a flight attendant. Flight attendants have the opportunity to travel the world, often living in multiple cities, while earning a generous hourly wage of around $ 18 the first year to $ 28 the fifth year (Continental). It’s important to note, however, that there is a lot of competition for this type of work, and only a few make it past the first interview. And language skills are a must! Most airlines look for flight attendants fluent in at least two languages.

Cruise Ship Staff

The cruise industry is one of the fastest-growing in the travel industry, and work on cruise ships has become a highly sought-after career. This kind of work allows you to see the world while working in housekeeping, security, food/beverage service, entertainment, retail, and many more. Pay ranges anywhere from $ 500-600 per month for a dish washer, to $ 4,800-6,400 per month for chief on-board doctor. This, of course, includes room and board, which makes even the lowest salary seem more generous.