Exciting hospitality careers that allow you to travel

Does the idea of a traditional office job leave you yearning for adventure? Do you dream of waking up to a new sunrise every few weeks? If wanderlust is coursing through your veins, the hospitality industry might be the perfect fit for you.

Beyond the glitz of luxury hotels and the thrill of bustling resorts, hospitality offers a wide range of roles with huge potential for growth in an industry that’s worth more than $4,600 billion globally. Plus, there are more than 320 million hospitality roles worldwide, so why be limited to where you live? This industry opens doors to a world of possibilities, from the heart of a cosmopolitan city to the serene shores of a secluded island. Get ready to find a career path where every day brings a new adventure and every guest becomes a part of your unique travel story.

Travel based roles

If you’re looking for a career where travel is part of the job, there are plenty of options in hospitality. Below, we will go over some roles where you’d be traveling while providing the best guest experience possible to customers.

Expedition cruise staff

Join the crew on adventure cruises that navigate remote locations and pristine wilderness areas. Responsibilities can range from guiding hikes through breathtaking landscapes and delivering educational lectures about the local flora and fauna to managing guest services and ensuring safety protocols are met on board and on land. This role is ideal for those who love the outdoors and have a thirst for exploration.

Cruise line management

Imagine managing a floating hotel that travels to breathtaking destinations around the world. Cruise ships need management to oversee all guest services on board, ensuring exceptional hospitality standards are met. This kind of role requires a deep understanding of luxury service and the ability to manage staff in a busy and quickly changing environment.

Luxury air travel

These roles take service to new heights. This includes attending to high-profile clientele in private jets, crafting bespoke cocktails for discerning first-class passengers or welcoming them to tranquil lounges before their flights. As a flight attendant, cabin crew member or lounge host, you’ll ensure every detail is flawless, becoming an ambassador of comfort and exceptional service in the skies.

Training and development leader

The hospitality industry relies on a well-trained workforce to deliver exceptional service. Skill developers and trainers are responsible for creating and delivering learning programs for all levels of staff. This role requires a strong understanding of the hospitality industry as well as the ability to develop and implement effective educational programs. You will often have to travel to different locations to deliver training sessions or demonstrate best practices in different properties.

Luxury trip designer

Craft bespoke itineraries for high-end clientele or travel companies, creating unique experiences that cater to a client’s interests and desires. This role requires in-depth knowledge of various destinations, not just the must-see sights but hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path adventures. You’ll need strong communication skills to understand client preferences and tailor experiences accordingly, along with a passion for creating unforgettable travel memories that go beyond the ordinary. In some cases, you will even have to travel to the destinations that interest your clients so you can ensure everything is perfect for them.

Roles where you can see the world

Hospitality leadership extends far beyond the hotel lobby. If you crave a career that blends travel with strategic thinking and the challenge of overseeing entire operations, then a managerial role in luxury hospitality might be the perfect fit. Reaching the top in these careers means you will be in high demand and could lead to appointments in several different locations throughout your working life.

Hotel general manager

As the head of a hotel, you’ll oversee all aspects of the operation, ensuring a smooth and luxurious experience for guests. This role requires strong leadership, financial acumen and the ability to build a cohesive team. You’ll likely be responsible for multiple locations, which could include a city hotel, a ski resort or a casino hotel throughout your career, allowing you to live and work in different countries.

International spa director

The world of wellness is booming and luxury spas worldwide are seeking experienced managers to lead their teams. In this role, you’ll oversee the spa’s operations, ensuring it delivers exceptional service and treatments. You may be responsible for opening new spas in different locations, giving you the chance to travel and experience new cultures.

Area manager for sales

Hospitality sales professionals play a vital role in increasing revenue for hotels and resorts. Managers can oversee sales teams across multiple properties located in different regions or even different countries. This role requires strong communication, relationship-building and negotiation skills. You’ll be responsible for developing sales strategies and exceeding revenue targets, while getting to travel and build relationships with key clients around the world.

Event & conference planner

Luxury hotels and resorts frequently host high-profile events and conferences. An event planner oversees the organization and execution of these events, ensuring they run smoothly and exceed client expectations. This role requires excellent organizational skills, attention to detail and the ability to manage complex logistics. You’ll likely travel to different locations to oversee events and build relationships with potential clients.

Food and beverage manager

Luxury hotels and resorts take pride in their culinary offerings and food and beverage managers are responsible for overseeing all aspects of their dining operations. This role requires a deep understanding of food trends, culinary skills and the ability to manage staff and ensure exceptional service. Food and beverage directors may travel to different locations to oversee restaurant openings, seek out new ingredients or develop new menus.

Whichever role you are interested in, a great way to start is by getting a hospitality degree. This enables you to learn all the skills you’ll need if you want to apply for globe-trotting roles.

Navigating the path to a travel-friendly career

The hospitality and tourism industries offer a wealth of exciting opportunities, but how do you land that perfect jet-setting job? Let’s look at the knowledge needed and some strategies to help you find a career in hospitality where you can see the world.

Education and skill requirements

The first step is to identify the specific career path that sparks your passion. Research different roles and explore the educational requirements and skillsets they entail. Below is a breakdown of some common approaches:

• Formal education: many hospitality careers benefit from a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management, tourism or a related field. These programs provide a strong foundation in industry principles, business practices and essential skills such as guest service, revenue management and marketing
• Specialized training: certain hospitality roles require specific certifications or training programs. For instance, aspiring restaurant managers might pursue culinary education, while adventure cruise staff might benefit from wilderness first aid training
• On-the-job experience: hospitality is a hands-on industry, so gaining experience is crucial. Look for internships, volunteer opportunities or entry-level positions at hotels, resorts or cruise lines. This experience will improve your resumé and enable you to develop essential skills and discover areas that interest you most

Developing a global skillset

Regardless of your chosen path, some core skills are essential for a successful travel-friendly hospitality career, including:

• Language skills: fluency in multiple languages is a valuable asset, particularly for roles that involve interacting with international guests
• Intercultural communication: the ability to understand and appreciate different cultures is key to providing excellent customer service to guests from all over the world
• Adaptability: be prepared to embrace new environments, work styles and cultural norms as you travel and experience different hospitality settings
• Problem-solving: the hospitality industry is fast-paced and unexpected situations can arise at any time. Develop your ability to think on your feet and find creative solutions to ensure guest satisfaction

Networking and job-searching strategies

Now you’re armed with the right skills and experience, it’s time to hit the ground running. Some effective strategies for landing your dream travel-friendly hospitality role are:

• Network like a pro: attend industry events, conferences and job fairs. Connect with professionals on LinkedIn and build relationships with people in your desired field
• Target your job search: research hospitality companies known for offering international opportunities. Explore their career pages and tailor your resumé and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences
• Think outside the box: don’t limit yourself to traditional job boards. Consider reaching out to hospitality recruiters specializing in placing candidates for international positions
• Showcase your wanderlust: during interviews, express your passion for travel and your willingness to relocate. Highlight the skills that make you suitable for working anywhere in the world

Challenges of travel jobs and how to overcome them

The attraction of a travel-based role in the hospitality sector is undeniable, but it’s important to be aware of the potential challenges that come with life on the move. Some common roadblocks are:

• Constant change and new environments: adapting to new locations, work cultures and teams can be demanding
• Loneliness and homesickness: being away from loved ones for extended periods can take its toll
• Work-life balance: the hospitality industry can be demanding, making it difficult to establish a clear separation between work and personal life, especially when travel arrangements for work are included
• Financial considerations: travel-based roles may come with irregular income or require upfront costs for relocation

Strategies for success

To overcome the challenges, there are a number of things to bear in mind, including:

• Embrace the adventure: view constant change as an opportunity for growth and personal development. Immerse yourself in new cultures and embrace the learning experiences that come with each new location
• Stay connected: use technology to stay in touch with loved ones back home. Schedule regular video calls, share travel experiences through photos and messages and plan visits whenever possible
• Set boundaries: communicate your need for personal time with colleagues and supervisors. Explore flexible work arrangements or alternative scheduling options
• Budget well: plan your finances carefully. Consider cost-of-living differences when negotiating salaries and factor in potential relocation expenses. Perhaps explore remote work opportunities in the hospitality industry if financial stability is a major concern
• Build a support system: connect with colleagues who share a similar travel lifestyle. Explore online communities or social media groups for hospitality professionals on the move. These networks can offer invaluable support and create a sense of belonging

Conclusion

The hospitality industry offers a world of possibilities for those who crave adventure and a desire to serve. From hotel management in exotic locations to curating bespoke travel itineraries or ensuring seamless service in the sky, there’s a travel-friendly hospitality career waiting for you. All you need to do is hone your skills and embrace the spirit of exploration.

Remember, the journey itself can be just as rewarding as the destination and, in the world of hospitality, every day brings a new adventure. If you want to get started, consider how studying for a hospitality degree at a well-renowned school such as Les Roches can help set you up for success.

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