I’m not certain of our readers’ demographics, but it’s likely that at least half are still working, still committed to routines and responsibilities, while quietly daydreaming about what it might feel like to travel the world with fewer constraints. That space between obligation and imagination is familiar. This morning, while sipping coffee and watching another new day unfold, I stumbled across an article I felt compelled to share. It lingered with me longer than expected, tapping into conversations we’ve heard more and more often, especially among friends and acquaintances who are still firmly planted in the workforce.

Many people are understandably concerned that artificial intelligence may one day take over their current jobs, or at least reshape them beyond recognition. It’s a heavy thought, and one that can stir anxiety if left unchecked. But what struck me most was the article’s underlying message. Rather than reacting with fear, it suggested responding with intention. What better way to face that possibility than to have a plan in place, a thoughtful alternative path, should a human job suddenly disappear?

For those still working, still saving, still imagining a different type of life, this perspective feels especially relevant. Planning isn’t pessimism. It’s empowerment. And sometimes, it’s the first quiet step toward a life you’ve only dared to imagine so far. Here’s the article from Travel and Leisure online magazine:

“13 Jobs That Pay You to Travel the World
Here’s proof you can turn a passion for travel into a full-fledged career. By Lydia Mansel
Published on January 29, 2026

As a freelance travel journalist, I’m frequently told I have the “dream job.” Multiple times a month, I fly to a new city, new state, or new country, searching for adventures and stories. Like all careers, there are definitely downsides, but there’s not a day that goes by that I’m not grateful for the experiences this type of career has afforded me. After all, if it wasn’t for this job, I may never have seen the famous bears in Katmai National Park and Preserve or ridden in a truck rounding up one of the largest bison herds in the U.S.

But becoming a travel writer or editor isn’t the only way to get paid to explore the world. There are dozens of other jobs you can choose that will inevitably take you to new places. Below, we rounded up 13 of them, along with firsthand advice from people who have made travel a core part of their work.

English Teacher
If you want to move abroad for a period of time, teaching English as a second language is an effective way to make that happen—but you’ll typically need to get your Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certification, a process that takes about 120 hours. The effort is worth it, though, as Shayna Stewart, a Rosetta Stone English tutor, attests. “Through teaching English, I have been able to explore what life looks like in the highlands of Mexico and get glimpses into the lives of students in Ethiopia, Vietnam, Turkey, and so many other countries,” she tells Travel + Leisure.

As far as advice for those interested in this type of career, she suggests taking the time to “truly learn English” and “have an idea of what is actually happening linguistically.” “Learning a language is one of the hardest things many people will ever do. Making sure to be prepared to guide others through that process requires more than fluency; it requires awareness, intention, and an understanding of how language works,” she says. “That preparation, organization, and critical thinking not only make you a better teacher but also position you more competitively in the eyes of employers.”

Travel Advisor
Travel advisors (or travel agents) are experts in travel planning; it’s their job to know the ins and outs of destinations, airlines, and on-the-ground experiences so they can plan the perfect trip for clients. “In my role, I design highly personalized, luxury travel experiences for clients—everything from milestone family trips to once-in-a-lifetime honeymoons and multi-week international itineraries,” says McLean Robbins, founder and lead designer at Lily Pond Luxury. “I earn commissions from hotels and partners I book on behalf of my clients, as well as planning fees for complex itineraries. The travel itself is research, essential to doing my job well.”

If you’re interested in becoming a travel advisor, she recommends treating the work “as a business, not a hobby.” “The most successful travel advisors aren’t just well-traveled—they’re excellent listeners, strong operators, and deeply curious. Learn how hotels actually work, understand contracts and margins, and build genuine relationships across the industry,” she says. “And most importantly, develop a point of view. Clients don’t need more options—they need confidence in a recommendation.”

Publicist
You can be a publicist or a public relations specialist and get paid to travel, even without working directly in the travel industry. In this field, you’ll be responsible for managing a client’s (or multiple clients’) media presence and public image, which can often result in flying around the world for events or meetings. “As a publicist working across industries, I get paid to travel for clients for many different reasons,” shares Tracy Lamourie, listing speaking engagements, film festivals, launch parties, and industry events.

Unsurprisingly, a PR role requires lots of face-to-face contact. “My best advice for someone wanting to do what I do is be very social in real life, not just on platforms,” she says. “Essentially, PR is presentation, understanding human nature, and being the person people come to when things go wrong. Excellent communication, stability, being unflappable in crisis, and being unimpressed by fame are all essential job tools.”

Consultant
There are all types of consultants, from HR and marketing to legal and financial. Their role is typically to advise clients on specific issues under a short-term contract. Depending on the exact type of consulting you go into (and the company you work for), you could find yourself traveling on a monthly, weekly, or even daily basis to client sites. Many consultants, for example, spend long stretches in the air and staying in hotels—the ideal role for someone who wants to rack up airline miles and hotel points.

Flight Crew
As a flight attendant or a pilot, you’ll spend your days in the air, flying from city to city. Both roles require training; to fly a commercial plane, you’ll need 1,500 hours of experience, and flight attendant training typically takes between six and eight weeks. Once you’ve officially landed your role, though, expect long days (and nights) and relatively rough schedules. Don’t let that dissuade you, though; there are a handful of travel benefits, including free flights, that come with the territory.

Ship Crew
Maybe you’re more interested in traveling by sea than by air. If that’s the case, you may want to consider a maritime career. Ships come in all sizes—luxury yachts, holiday cruises, mega-ships, etc.—and they all require a crew of hardworking people to properly (and safely) operate them. Some roles are more front-facing, such as entertainers or servers on a cruise ship. Others are more behind-the-scenes; stewards and engineers may have less interaction with customers or clients. No matter which direction you choose, plan on signing weeks- or months-long contracts.

Photographer
Creativity and freedom go hand in hand in the life of a professional photographer, whether they specialize in weddings, landscapes, or wildlife. Lisa Michele Burns, a photographer and the founder of The Wandering Lens, for example, focuses on “luxury lodges, remote regions, and outdoor adventures.” But, she says, “As a travel photographer, the projects and client requirements are always so varied, which keeps things exciting, creatively inspiring, and unpredictable. One project could be to photograph an image library that showcases the activities, scenery, design, and decor of a beautiful hotel, while another job could see me underwater photographing marine life and coral restoration projects.”

It’s definitely a competitive business, but there are a few things you can do to find success and make sure your work stands out. “Diversity is key as a travel photographer, and you don’t want to rely on a single income stream, so it’s essential to build a network of clients in your chosen industry, in addition to creating additional avenues like selling prints or licensing your work,” says Burns. “I’d also recommend avoiding the comparison trap, particularly in a world of social media and endless content. Stay curious, creative, and explore a career on your own terms by following the locations and subjects you’re drawn to photograph, then finding the clients that align with this direction.”

Videographer
Like a photographer, a videographer can be flown around the world to capture dynamic, beautiful content—everything from nature to weddings. Kaitlyn Holeman, a videographer and photographer at Skyewater Photo + Film, specializes in “adventure elopement and small weddings.”

“The packages I create for each couple are fully customizable, and I wrap all my own travel costs into the price upfront, which potential clients really appreciate,” she says. “Having traveled to a variety of places including the Pacific Northwest, California, Colorado, Vermont, Alaska, Mexico, Greece, and The Bahamas, I already know the estimate of my flights, lodging, meals, and other transportation costs for travel to each region, so I can account for all of that without having to add on any surprise fees later in the planning process.”

If wedding videography piques your interest, she has one major piece of advice. “Dedicate time to travel to a couple of top chosen destinations for weddings to build content and real firsthand experience in the places you want to work,” she says. “Clients love being able to work with someone who’s at least been to the destination they want to get married in. Knowing exactly how easy or difficult certain places are to access or when is the best time of year to visit certain destinations helps show expertise.”

Travel Nurse
As a travel nurse, you’ll fill temporary positions in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities in destinations across the country—and even around the world. Karen O’Donnell Fountain, a Fastaff ER nurse and director of clinical services, says she usually accepts short-term assignments (between eight and 13 weeks). “I complete the same core clinical work as staff nurses, but I’m stepping into new environments regularly, so adaptability is a big part of the job. One contract I might be working in a busy urban Level 1 trauma center, and the next I could be in a rural hospital that serves a tight-knit community,” she explains. This type of role, she adds, allows her to “travel, do the work I love, and get paid well for my skills.”

“Facilities pay a competitive wage to secure an experienced nurse for a short-term assignment. My compensation usually includes an hourly wage plus tax-free stipends for housing, meals, and incidentals, as long as I’m working away from my permanent home and duplicating expenses,” she says. “Sometimes housing is arranged for me; other times I receive a stipend and choose my own place. Travel costs may also be reimbursed. An agency typically handles contracts, pay structure, and logistics, which makes the process smoother.”

Au Pair or Nanny
A role as an au pair or nanny isn’t just a job; it’s a full cultural immersion. “When I was in my early 20s, I had an urge to get out and see the world, but I didn’t have the budget. This led me to researching all of the ways I could make a little money abroad. One of those was through being an au pair,” says Sarah Pardi, a former au pair and the current global head of travel content at Insurte. “I learned that most au pair positions are in exchange for room and board, plus a stipend, but it varies depending on the country and its local laws. I also learned that visas are required, but many countries have specific ‘au pair visas’ designed exactly for these purposes.” There are all kinds of sites and agencies designed to match potential au pairs with families, and Pardi notes it’s paramount to do your research and only work with the most reputable sources.

Content Creator
The jobs of content creators and influencers are constantly shifting depending on their social media platforms and niche. When you see these public figures on the go, they may be getting paid by a larger brand—like a hotel, tourism board, or airline—or they’re creating content that will eventually earn them money. YouTubers, for instance, are typically paid ad revenue based on engagement and views. To become a fully independent content creator, you’ll need to focus on consistency and find a subject that resonates with an audience.

Scientist or Researcher
Creatives aren’t the only ones who can get paid to travel. Those with more analytical minds—namely biologists, geologists, ecologists, and anthropologists—often conduct fieldwork as part of their research. Sometimes, it does require finding (and applying for) grants to fund the travel itself, but there are also roles funded through universities or private companies. Your work could bring you to some of the world’s most far-flung and isolated places; Antarctica, for instance, is home to many year-round research stations.

Foreign Service Officer
If you plan to study global policy or foreign affairs in college—or have recently completed a degree—a career as a U.S. Foreign Service Officer (FSO) or diplomat may be in your future. The U.S. government notes there are five career tracks: economic officers, consular officers, management officers, political officers, and public diplomacy officers. Your exact assignment and placement will depend on your skills and the government’s interests and goals.”

Hopefully, for those of you who would consider working while traveling, even if none of these suggestions feel like the right fit, they may still spark ideas of your own, ideas better aligned with your unique skills, interests, and curiosities. Sometimes inspiration doesn’t arrive as a perfect solution but as a gentle nudge, encouraging you to think differently about what might be possible beyond the familiar boundaries of traditional work.

We’ve learned along the way that the path rarely looks the same for everyone. What works beautifully for one person may feel entirely wrong for another, and that’s part of the adventure. The value lies in staying open, in allowing new concepts to simmer, evolve, and eventually take a shape that feels authentic to you.

If nothing else, perhaps this serves as a reminder that alternatives do exist, even if they’re not immediately obvious. With a bit of creativity and courage, new doors have a way of opening when you least expect them. Thanks so much for stopping by and sharing a moment of your day with us.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, February 1, 2016: