Working you way around Europe allows you to drastically decrease your costs and means that you can experience a variety of ways of life and try out a variety of new experiences without having to break the bank. There is a lot of seasonal work in Europe as well as longer term opportunities. In this article we’re going to look at some of the best opportunities available offering some of the best and most different experiences that there are. Most jobs can be found online and there are some good sites with large job boards that you can visit.
We’ll start in the winter with Ski resort jobs in the Alps. Whilst it would definitely help if you already ski or snowboard there are still a huge amount of opportunities to work and you can learn to do so at the same time making it a great opportunity. Given the nature of the E.U you no longer need a work visa which makes it very easy to travel and work around the region. The ski season runs from November until April and thousands of support staff are hired each year from ski instructors to tour operators, cleaners and concierge’s. This means that whatever your skill level you are likely to find a job. The French Alps are the best with the highest density of English tourists and consequently the most need for English workers.
Next we’ll examine a popular and shorter term work opportunity – summer camp holidays. These are child’s summer getaways with activities, teaching or a mixture of the two. These are most prevalent in America but also exist in Europe and the UK. In Europe they generally involve camping and outdoor pursuits so if you have any experience in these areas you are likely to be able to find a good job. These camps generally last a week or two and you will be paid and supplied bed board and often have your flights paid for making them a good way to get a taste for a country and facilitate a longer visit.
If you want to get some experience teaching then teaching English as a foreign language is a great way to see the world and earn some money at the same time. In Europe the two best countries for this are the Czech Republic and Spain. Both these countries have a high demand for English teaching and will reimburse very well for your time. You will need a teaching qualification which can be obtained intensively in around three months. Teaching is a great way to see a local side of these countries and will definitely keep your budgets in check.
For something a little more outdoors without the need for special qualifications we would recommend fruit and vegetable picking in Europe. Our favourite destination for this is the vineyards of France but these jobs are available everywhere in Europe during the summer seasons. You are normally paid on the basis of the weight you pick of the fruit or vegetable and will usually be put up in modest accommodations for the duration of your work. Generally these jobs can be picked up on the spot but it’s better to check online and book in advance so that you can ensure having a spot. You will be picking with a mixture of nationalities and will have a long work day but if the weather is nice this isn’t a problem. Fruit and veg picking might not pay brilliantly but you’ll get to mingle with some great cultures and experience more traditional aspects of the country.
Finally we have camping and summer resort jobs. These are your typical hotel, resort and campsite jobs and are typically for the duration of the summer rather than a short period of time. The jobs can often be dull and gruelling but you will get a free stay somewhere and earn enough money to keep you afloat. These jobs can generally be found online and are plentiful throughout Europe so you’ll easily find something.
If you’re planning to do a variety of jobs and see a variety of countries pick up some travel insurance for multiple trips to keep yourself and your belongings safe. You’ll save a lot of money this way plus can rest assured your belongings are well looked after.
Mike is a travel writer for sites such as Travel Insurance Web covering worldwide destinations, budget travel and tips on how to find the best deals on your holiday.
