I want to travel and explore the world

I want to see the whole world and need advice on how to start. I live in Finland and plan to explore some of Europe first. Here are my main questions:

  • I could work, but how long or how much is allowed? Do I need a work visa?
  • Where can I find short-term jobs, from a week to a month?

Not sure if this is what you’re looking for, but there are some nonprofits that offer mission-based or project-based jobs in different countries. A friend of mine does this and has traveled a lot for these projects, usually staying for a month or two at a time.

Since Finland is in the EU, you can move between EU countries, the EEA states (which aren’t in the EU but follow the economic market rules), and Switzerland with relatively fewer hassles. There are some details to keep in mind, but overall it functions like a single zone for travel and work.

There are two main approaches you could take. Some people might suggest starting with countries closer to you since it’s easier, while others might think it’s better to explore further while you’re still young.

If you’re planning to work outside of the EU/EEA/Switzerland, it’s important to research the specific country you’re visiting. Some countries have working holiday visa agreements, which could allow you to work short-term jobs to help fund your travels. For example, in the US, there’s the J1 visa for things like camp counseling, which gives you 30 days after your program to travel.

Some countries may be fine with you working remotely from a laptop, but finding “remote anywhere” jobs is getting harder due to visa restrictions and stricter IT security measures from companies.

There’s also work on cruise ships, resorts and theme parks which will sponsor visas in other countries

I figure each country has its own visa rules and work permits you’d need to look into. The only real way to know is to search for the countries you want to visit and see what’s possible. Trying to plan for everywhere all at once is pretty overwhelming.

Go country by country. For Europe, you can buy an Interrail pass a couple of times. In Asia, try the Banana Trail. Get a working holiday visa in Australia, then visit New Zealand with a cheap flight. After a year or two working in Australia, buy a bicycle and fly to South America. Travel north through the Darien Gap from Colombia and find a sailboat to get back to Europe. That’s one way to see the world!

Get work on a cruise ship or with a major hotel chain.

What you need to do is get a fully remote job, or work for an airline