by Paola Fanutti

Created on: August 31, 2009

Combining, fun, work and travel is no longer just a dream, but a real possibility in the ever growing and global job market. Thirty years ago, a travel job involved working for an airline, as a flight attendant or pilot, or being an industry travel agent or working for a cruise ship. Today, in a world with shrinking borders, there are a variety of other rewarding career choices that involve experiencing different cultures whilst achieving personal growth and enrichment . Here are a few travel jobs that aren't just frivolous money making schemes for backpackers, but serious career choices for adults who have a passion for the diverse and exotic. These jobs blend adventure with travel, creativity and professionalism.

TEFL- Teaching English is a fantastic way to educate non-native learners about your own language and culture, and in turn learn about foreign cultures directly through cultural and educational immersion with your own students. A challenging and upbeat professional choice with lots of room for personal and professional development. According to Oxford, the TEFL field is booming, and an impressive 20,000 new jobs worldwide are posted monthly. A TESOL certificate or equivalent is essential for overseas teaching.

Resort Representative- Work for a tour operator or a resort chain as an on-site representative in North America, the Caribbean, in Europe, Australia or the Far East. Assist tourists and vacationers with complaints, upgrades, requests, local tours and flights. Many representatives only work a few hours per day and enjoy hotel amenities and services for free. Look for a job with the actual tour operator so you switch countries or resort every few years. A travel and tourism diploma combined with hospitality experience can you land you a competitive and enviable position like this.

Musicians and Ethnomusicologists- Opportunities in this field are few and far between except for the super talented and lucky, who can travel the world and share their passion, talent and musical inclination. A growing but relatively new field is the study of ethnomusicology, the anthropology of music and the study of the influence of music on cultural phenomena. Jobs are available worldwide. To learn more about top music schools and the anthropology of music, click here.

Travel Writers- A potentially lucrative job for risk-taking freelancers, reputable destination guide publications like the Lonely Planet and Eyewitness Travel need witty, authentic, and informed travellers

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