Traveling the world and learning new skills? Sounds like a dream, right? Well, It’s possible and we are here to convince you that it should be at the top of your list! Here’s the ultimate guide, designed just for you, where we’ll talk about top travel destinations where you can soak up the culture, have a blast, and yes, pick up some part-time work to boost your resume and skills. 

Let’s get into it and level you up this 2024!

1. Chilling and Chatting in Tokyo, Japan

Where You’re Heading: Tokyo, Japan

What You’ll Learn: Japanese language skills

Part-Time Gig: English Tutoring

Tokyo is the place where ancient temples sit next to towering skyscrapers. It’s like stepping into the future but always having access to the rich history of this country just feet away. While you’re navigating those neon-lit streets, why not teach English? It’s a great way to explore Japan, learn Japanese, and get paid!

Here are a couple of resources where you can find English teaching jobs in Japan:

Jet Programme

• The Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme is an official Japanese government initiative that brings college graduates to Japan as Assistant Language Teachers (ALTs) in Japanese schools. While it’s more of a full-time role, it’s a highly regarded program for teaching English in Japan and a perfect option if you just graduated college!

GaijinPot Jobs

• GaijinPot is a popular website among foreigners in Japan. It features a dedicated jobs section where you can find part-time English teaching positions, including roles specifically for college students.

Online Teaching Platforms

• If you are looking for something more remote and flexible, websites like iTalki or VIPKID allow you to teach English online. This can be a convenient option if you prefer to work from home or have a variable schedule which as a college student you probable will.

While there, make sure to get a place in a local neighborhood. This way you’ll practice your Japanese and live like a true Tokyoite. Remember, the more immersed you are the easier it will be for you to pickup the language and develop new skills.

2. Cooking Up a Storm in Tuscany, Italy

Where You’re Heading: Tuscany, Italy

What You’ll Learn: The art of Italian cooking

Part-Time Gig: Helping out in local eateries

Picture this, you are in the heart of Tuscany, surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, learning to cook like an Italian Nonna. You are working at a small bistro or a vineyard and are getting the real taste of Italy both with food and the hospitality of the italian countryside. Now, if you got excited just reading that, then let us guide you on how to increase your chances to make your Italian culinary adventure a reality.

Here are a couple of ways to find a gig to satisfy that Italian longing:

Local Job Portals

• Websites like Jobs in Milan, Bakeca, and Indeed Italy often list part-time job opportunities, including those in the hospitality and food service sectors in Tuscany. Remember it’s about how this experience will transform you and help you grow, so be bold and take a chance on something you usually wouldn’t!

Culinary Schools and Cooking Classes

• If you’re attending a culinary school in Italy, they often have connections with local eateries and can help you find part-time work. If you are not, participating in cooking classes can provide networking opportunities and eventually land you a simple gig to get you started. You goal is to be open to the possibilities.

Local Newspapers and Community Boards

• If you want to live a local, you have to act like one. Check out the local newspapers in Tuscany, such as “La Nazione” or “Il Tirreno”, as they may have an ad section where eateries post job opportunities. And of course, community boards in public spaces like libraries or community centers can also be helpful during your search.

While there, stay try to stay in a little town and not necessarily in the most popular locations. That way you’ll get the full rustic Italian experience. Plus, who doesnt want to make friends with locals and create lasting friendships with people all over the world?

3. Lights, Camera, Action in Vancouver, Canada

Where You’re Heading: Vancouver, Canada

What You’ll Learn: Film and media production

Part-Time Gig: Production assistant gigs

Vancouver is like Hollywood’s cooler cousin. This city is buzzing with film sets and studios that are looking for new talent and if you didn’t land an internship in the states to kickstart your film career, don’t fret because this is the second best place to get started! We recommend  grabbing a part-time gig as a production assistant and learning the ropes of filmmaking. Who knows, you might even bump into a star or two.

To get closer to stardom here are a couple of ways to land those new skills:

Creative BC Job Board:

• Creative BC maintains a job board that features listings in the creative industries, including film and media production. It’s a great resource for finding local opportunities and find a community who has similar interests.

Industry Websites and Forums:

• Websites such as Playback, Mandy’s Film and TV Production Directory, and the Directors Guild of Canada often post job listings and opportunities in the film and media industry. And if you already have some experience this will be a good place to show of that experience.

Local Production Companies:

• Research local production companies in Vancouver and check their websites for job openings or internship opportunities. Don’t hesitate to send an application expressing your interest and availability for part-time work even if they don’t seem to have an opening up on their website. It doesn’t hurt to try all your avenues!

While here, it’s important to Network like crazy! And it goes without saying, but you should always make an effort to attend local film events and workshops because let’s be real, life is about who you know.. 

4. Going Green in Costa Rica

Where You’re Heading: Costa Rica

What You’ll Learn: Environmental conservation

Part-Time Gig: Eco-tourism projects

Costa Rica is a nature lover’s paradise. Imagine waking up to the sound of howler monkeys, helping out with turtle conservation, or leading tours in the rainforest. You’re not just working; you’re making a difference.

Local Eco-Tourism Websites and Organizations:

• Websites of local eco-tourism organizations in Costa Rica, such as the Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT), often list job opportunities or internships in the field.

Volunteer Networks:

• Platforms like Workaway, and WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms) can be great places to find eco-tourism related volunteer opportunities, which sometimes lead to paid positions.

Contacting Eco-Tourism Businesses Directly:

• Identify eco-lodges, sustainable tour operators, and conservation projects in Costa Rica and reach out to them directly to inquire about part-time job opportunities. Some of them can be Finca Bellavista, Horizontes Nature Tours, and Monteverde Conservation League.

While there try to live in an eco-lodge or a homestay. It’s the best way to get close to nature and the local culture. You gotta live it to make it better!

5. Becoming Part of the Future in Berlin

Where You’re Heading: Berlin, Germany germany

What You’ll Learn: Software development, IT, digital innovation

Part-Time Gig: Internships in tech startups, IT companies, digital agencies

While silicon valley might be the number one when it comes to being in tech heaven, Berlin is known for its vibrant startup scene and creative energy, and is a hotbed for technological innovation and digital entrepreneurship. This city offers a dynamic environment for students interested in software development and other digital technologies.

Rocket Internet:

• Known for incubating and investing in tech startups, offering various opportunities for aspiring tech professionals.

Berliner Startup Stipendium:

• A program that supports innovative startup projects, often providing opportunities for students and interns.

Tech Meetups and Workshops:

• Berlin hosts numerous tech meetups, workshops, and hackathons, which are excellent for learning new skills, networking, and finding part-time opportunities. Some of them are Women who code Berlin, Berlin School of AI, and Global AI Hackathon.

Traveling for education or pleasure is not just about seeing new places; it’s about finding yourself. Solo travel means freedom, adventure, and stories to tell for a lifetime! While safety is always first, the second best thing to focus on is to live life to the fullest and this is one way to make sure you can make that happen!

So there you have it! Five amazing destinations where you can learn, work, and play. As you can see, this isn’t just a trip; it’s a journey to finding new skills, new friends and maybe even a new you. Pack your bags, grab your passport, and take advantage of our exclusive student deals. It’s time to make some memories!