Ever thought about landing a job in tourism?
The tourism sector is growing exponentially, increasing 7% in 2017 to $1.3 trillion, making it one of the largest industries for economic growth.
We’re covering three different career paths that you can take if you want to break into this exciting industry.
Cruise Ships
If you’re looking to incorporate travel with your career, then think about working on a cruise ship. Imagine the number of countries you can visit in one year! Combine working on a cruise ship with writing a travel blog and you have a great career path lined up. Similar to the hotel industry, working on a cruise ship provides many different opportunities depending on your skill set. From serving meals in the dining room, to arranging private tours on land, to entertaining guests onstage, you’ll easily find a department on the cruise ship that fits your interest.
On your days off on shore, you’ll be able to experience other places as if you were on holiday yourself. Since you’ll likely be traveling to different countries, a career in the cruise ship industry is best suited for those with the desire to explore other cultures. If you’re interested in learning about different local customs, then setting sail on open waters with a cruise line could be a great opportunity.
Resorts and Hotels
There are many different career opportunities available in the resort and hotel industry. If you’re interested in working directly with people, then guest reception or concierge services might be a good option. You’ll have the opportunity to interact directly with the guests, whether you’re helping them with their reservation or searching for ways to make their stay more enjoyable. Many large hotel chains also provide conference rooms or spaces for various events, making event planning another viable career in the hospitality industry.
Whether you’re working with individuals to plan a wedding, or with large companies to host a conference, you’ll be tasked with arranging the logistics and making sure everything goes according to plan. Not all jobs in hotels have to be customer facing. There are many types of behind-the-scenes employment positions, like housekeeping, cooking, or landscaping. The hotel industry is also a great starting point for entry level employees, since the option to move in between departments or to other hotel locations is common.
Tour and Travel
When visiting a new city or country, many travelers are interested in visiting the main sights and attractions. Becoming a tour guide is a great way to help tourists see a different side of the city they are visiting. Not all tours need to be focused on the city’s biggest attractions. If you’re a foodie, then think about becoming a guide for a culinary tour. If you’re more active, then show people around the city by leading them on a walking or bike tour. Tour guides are perfect for those with more flexibility. While most tours operate year round, working hours and schedules are usually not fixed and full time. Depending on the type of tour, you may also be asked to work nights, weekends or back to back shifts. Also keep in mind that most tour operators rely heavily on tips, so being friendly, personable and memorable is key. The opportunities available in the tourism industry are endless, and the need for all different skills and traits are desired. What skills do you think are important when working in tourism?
