It is commonplace to be hit by wanderlust. Yet, only a few jobs, such as flight attendants and working in the foreign service, allow this dream to come true. However, there are other ways to transform your love of travel into a career.
Everyone, not just travel bloggers, can make travel a part of their daily life with a little bit of planning and know-how. Especially with the rise of modern technologies like high-speed internet, video conferencing tools, and smartphones which make operating across time zones more achievable than ever.
Finding Stability on the Move
Often described as "digital nomads," people who combine work and travel definitely lead an enviable lifestyle. However, you don’t want to quit your office job without knowing how you'll earn a sustainable income.
First, you need to know where to find remote-based work. There are several online websites dedicated to flexible jobs, and many positions won't require you to work where you live. Such jobs range from copywriting to app development.
Also, depending on where you decide to travel, you'll need to take into consideration visa restrictions and tax obligations. That said, as long as you have a steady income and find some cosy accommodation, you can work a few hours from your laptop before heading for the beach.
Creators Who Forge Their Own Path
You don’t have to look far to find creators who pay for their international travel by working online. There’s a good chance you’ve already seen some on YouTube and Instagram, with creators like Vagabrothers and Music Travel Love renowned for their fascinating video content. These individuals have taken their wanderlust to new heights and literally travel for a living. From detailed travel guides to creative music videos, it’s no surprise these creators have amassed millions of subscribers.
Elsewhere, Jodi Ettenberg, aka Legal Nomads, started her travel blog in 2008 with no intention of making it her full-time job. But as she built her audience and expanded her platform, she was able to live freely across Thailand, Vietnam, and Mexico. But having suffered an injury that ended her travels, Ettenberg now writes about disability, curiosity, and loss.
However, it's not just social media stars that get to become digital nomads. Thousands make it their reality every year, driven by their love of travel and the ability to use technology to their advantage, kickstarting business ventures.
Stepping Out in Singapore
The COVID-19 pandemic might have put a halt to travel for the time being, but there's no need to wait until we can move freely again to kickstart your business in Singapore. With so many fascinating things to explore around our country, you can dive into the local cultural tapestry to develop your own ideas and reach an equally passionate audience.
1. Become an Expert on Singapore’s Culinary Scene
The food scene in Singapore is definitely one to explore, as you can find flavours from every corner on Earth. If you’re an eager gastronome who's thinking about diving into the blogosphere, you can find an audience by focusing on Singapore’s dining scene. Whether that means highlighting the top comfort food eateries, best vegan flavours, or fine-dining establishments, share your experience showcasing some unbelievable cuisine. Draw inspiration too from local content creators like The Iron Lady Chef, who has made his mark with his thriving blog.
2. Share Your Creative Talent
If you have a unique set of skills that can wow anyone who comes across them, consider starting a YouTube channel or an Instagram profile to showcase your work. If you manage to capture the attention of fans, you can sell your artwork, collaborate with brands, and fund your future travels. After all, e-commerce is on the rise, and getting a head start will not require much thanks to its low barriers to entry.
3. Immerse Yourself in Tech
There’s a thriving tech scene in Singapore, as both multinational giants and local startups contribute to the country’s reputation as a forward-thinking regional hub. This means that software developers, system administrators, and people in tech support, can grow a freelance base.
With this in mind, you can set yourself up with a stable income and achieve the dream of becoming location-independent once international travel is back on the agenda.
4. Let Your Passion Run Wild
There’s no doubt that some jobs are easier to complete on the move than others. But you might be surprised just how diverse the roles you can take on with just a computer and broadband internet access are. If work and travelling around the world are something that you desperately want, don’t be afraid to follow your dreams and see how far you can take them.
Grow Your Platform on the Road
Once you’ve established a budding remote business in Singapore, taking things on the road when international travel is appropriate again brings a host of new challenges. Whether you decide to create a blog, make YouTube videos or develop apps, making time for both work and pleasure in a foreign country isn’t always easy. To ensure your platform continues to grow as you go on adventures around the world, consider doing the following:
1. Develop Your Online Portfolio
When you’re moving from one place to the next, many industry connections you make will be virtual rather than people you meet in person. If you choose to work as a photographer, writer, or programmer, make sure you stand out by creating a portfolio to display on your website. This way, new clients can discover your talent and get in contact with you.
2. Seek Out Opportunities
Although it helps to drive traffic to your website, there are several popular online platforms where you can apply for positions anywhere in the world. Thousands successfully base their entire careers on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Toptal that connect businesses with freelancers. You can find opportunities too on Facebook or LinkedIn groups, or by contacting businesses independently.
3. Don’t Lose Yourself to Work
Finding a balance between work and play is difficult when you’re a digital nomad. You might be just metres from the idyllic beachfront, but you won't be able to enjoy the scenery if you’ve pressing deadlines. Remember to set aside time to experience your surroundings. After all, that's why you left home in the first place!
Improve Your Well-being with a Journal
Leaving your home behind to travel the world might be daunting. Fortunately, you don’t have to create a YouTube channel or a popular blog to document your everyday thoughts and maintain your mental well-being.
Many people find that journaling helps them process and understand their emotions. If the idea of jet-setting around the globe is too stressful, try jotting down your aspirations and fears instead.
Work on the Move with M1
If you plan to make your dream of being a digital nomad a reality, you'll need reliable travel technology. Stay connected wherever you go with M1, with affordable global roaming services such as data passports that allow you to enjoy top-notch mobile international roaming in 70 different countries.
Our home broadband plans also ensure you keep up with clients when working from home or running your own website or YouTube channel. Get in touch to find out more.