Missing the iconic Sydney Opera House is a feeling I know well.

During my time in Australia from 2008 to 2009, I earned a living at a bar overlooking the stunning Sydney Harbour. This job not only financed my travels but also helped me forge meaningful connections. (For more on my Australian adventure, check out my story on AFAR.)

My life's mission is to try as many diverse jobs as possible. I believe this builds character and essential life skills. My experiences range from waiting tables and retail to bartending and photographing everything from farmers to rock bands (Dave Grohl is a legend!). I've taught English in Thailand, led photography trips across Asia, and instructed photography at U.S. universities. Remember, your job doesn't define you; your character does.

Previously, I explored the true costs of travel, detailing my 7-month journey through Latin America. Now, I'm sharing tips on how to work abroad to extend your travels and bolster your savings. I've personally experienced many of these options and met others who have as well.

Regardless of age, whether you're 18 or 68, there are numerous options available.

Working Holiday Visas

My year in Australia was made possible by a Working Holiday Visa, allowing individuals aged 18 to 30 to work while traveling. I juggled various bar jobs and even photographed for Rolling Stone. (Pretty unexpected, right?)

  • Australia and New Zealand offer one-year visas for Americans and numerous other nationalities aged 18-30, allowing employment anywhere. Australia mandates that no one employer can be worked for more than six months continuously. Visa fees are $320 USD for Australia and $165 USD for New Zealand. You must usually present $4,000-$5,000 in local currency upon entry, though proof isn't always requested (I wasn't asked in Australia).
  • For students and recent graduates, similar visa options exist in South Korea ($45 USD fee), Canada ($200 USD), Singapore ($150 USD fee), and Ireland ($300 USD fee). These programs must be initiated within 12 months of graduation. Check out this guide on Working Holiday programs for Americans.
  • If you have dual citizenship or are not a U.S. citizen, look into other Working Holiday Programs in countries like Japan, Ireland, and Italy. Australia and New Zealand's programs are available to various nationalities, offering even more options for non-U.S. citizens. For further information, this LinkedIn article provides useful insights.
  • A Working Holiday Visa is an excellent starting point for those looking to settle in a new country. It can lead to future job opportunities and additional visa options. Many of my friends transitioned to residency or long-term work visas after starting with this program.
  • Bunac assists with work visas for recent graduates (in Ireland, Britain, Canada, etc.). While they offer valuable information, many programs allow for direct applications without their assistance.
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I had the chance to teach English to kindergarteners in Sisaket, Thailand. (Fridays were always designated as pink shirt day.)

Teaching English

Teaching English is an excellent way to immerse yourself in a new culture while funding your travels. I briefly taught in Thailand and considered similar roles in Korea and Japan. A Bachelor's degree is often required or preferred by many programs. While a TEFL/TESOL certificate isn't mandatory, it's beneficial for higher salaries. (Just so you know, I don't have either certification. Private schools typically require it.) The highest salaries are found in Japan and Korea, with employers usually providing visas.

Top-tier teaching programs offer extensive training. Be ready to improvise if you opt for lesser-known programs. Note that many educational systems abroad don't adhere to traditional American or British holiday calendars (like Christmas break).

JAPAN

  • The Jet Program stands out as Japan's premier English teaching initiative. Airfare is covered, and it offers one of the top salaries in the country. Housing and transport are subsidized. (A friend in the program earned $33,660 USD/year TAX FREE and paid only $130 USD/month in rent.) The application process can be rigorous, requiring an interview at a Japanese consulate. A Bachelor's degree is necessary. I applied once, got an interview, but didn't secure the position. TIP: If you land an interview, be prepared for questions like this: What would you tell a student asking why the U.S. dropped the bomb on Hiroshima? (Yes, that was actually asked!)
  • Other significant teaching programs in Japan include AEON, Amity, Altia, Nova, and ECC (These recommendations come from friends who have taught there.)
  • For more details on teaching programs and work visas in Japan, refer to Tokyo Becky's thorough guide!

KOREA

Most English teaching jobs in Korea cover airfare and accommodation. The application process can span several months, and an FBI background check is required prior to departure (but it's not as daunting as it sounds). The best job resource for Korea and beyond is Dave's ESL Café. The average salary is around $23,000 USD/year, with airfare, housing, and visas included. Most positions begin in February or August. For more guidance, check out this resource on teaching in Korea.

THAILAND

I briefly taught English through AYC Thailand as a substitute for a few weeks in a kindergarten class. It was an incredible experience, and I've thought about doing it again. I earned 1,200 BHT/day ($34 USD) but could have made more with a longer contract that included bonuses. Transport from Bangkok to my teaching site was covered (I was eight hours away by train in a charming town named Sisaket). As a substitute, my lodging was taken care of, so I lived on a few dollars daily. (I enjoyed free lunch at school.) Salaries are higher, and bonuses are available for those who sign a semester contract. Public school semesters typically run from May to October and November to April.

Ajarn.com is an excellent resource for job listings in Thailand. Many expats teaching there have used this site.

OTHER LOCATIONS

  • Greenheart Travel provides programs in Thailand, Europe, Colombia, and more. I was accepted to teach English in Medellin, Colombia through their program but opted for a photography teaching role in the U.S. instead. The position offered a stipend and visa but didn't cover transport costs. I recommend this company as their staff is very friendly!
  • Dave's ESL Café also has a valuable job board for international opportunities.

Rice fields in Northern Thailand

Work Exchange

Work Exchange programs enable you to volunteer in exchange for accommodation and meals. Many companies connect hosts with volunteers, and the commitment can range from days to months. There's no age limit, and even families with children can participate! I've encountered many travelers who have benefited from the programs listed below.

  • Wwoof.net focuses on opportunities at organic farms worldwide.
  • WorkAway offers diverse options, including roles in schools, cafes, hostels, and farms. Membership is $29 USD per year. (I've enjoyed wonderful stays at hostels managed by Workaway hires and was offered jobs at several!)
  • HelpX is an alternative to Workaway, providing roles at hostels, ranches, and more. A two-year membership costs 20 Euros. (One friend is currently working on a farm in New Zealand through HelpX.)

With this wealth of options, I expect you to go out and start exploring the world! Excuses are no longer valid!

UP NEXT: Travel Tuesday Interview Series! I'm launching a long-term series featuring inspiring individuals I've met during my travels, including a 68-year-old solo traveler, a British family who sold everything to travel for a year, Peace Corps volunteers, English teachers in Korea, travel entrepreneurs, and much more!