Finding a summer job in a different country is a great way to combine both, as you can travel and explore the local places on the days off work.
There are so many places you can go, from world famous cities to spending your summer on some of the best beaches in the world. There are also lots of jobs available even if you don't yet have any specific skills or experience.
If going to work abroad this summer appeals to you, here are some of the top countries and destinations you should consider applying:
1. Spain
Spain is a dream country for a lot of people because of the never-ending sun, breathtaking islands and laid back culture. Spain is one of the most popular summer holiday destination in Europe and it is easy to see why.
What this means is that jobs boom in this season - in particular, bar work. Working outdoors into the warm Spanish nights with a buzzing atmosphere is ideal for a summer job, with Marbella, Ibiza, Mallorca, Barcelona and Benidorm having the most work for English-speaking bar staff.
The language barrier is only a problem on the mainland or in smaller locations but there is also the option to book a Spanish course in Spain on arrival.
Brits in particular swarm over to the above destinations, meaning English speakers are actually needed (tour guides and customer service jobs are around, too). The best bit about Spain is their attitude towards work, siesta and their laid-back approach to life.
2. Greece
Greece is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe and it is easy to see why, with food, culture, history, islands and beaches - you won't want to leave.
Most people when seeking seasonal work in Greece apply on the islands like Mykonos, Crete and Santorini which are stunning.
3. Portugal
Portugal is beautiful with amazing citiies like Lisbon and Porto, and also the Algarve - an incredible southern coast region popular with international tourists.
We recommend seeking employment around the Algarve region which is such a special place to spend your summer. Expect beaches, parties and memories to last a lifetime.
4. Cyprus
Cyprus is well-known for its summer job opportunities, with a lot of clubs and restaurants offering seasonal positions to English speakers.
This is perfect for all the party-goers out there, who wish to work in a buzzing environment and meet new people.
Generally, you’ll have to make your way to either Larnaca and, of course, Ayia Napa. There may be some work in hotels, water sports parks and holiday resorts, but the pay may not be great.
The Greek economy may not be the best for you if you're not into partying. Cyprus does offer a lot of fruit-picking jobs that don’t require language skills, but just be aware that the temperature regularly goes above 40 degrees celsius and the pay won't be great.
5. The Netherlands
The Netherlands is another great country to get a summer job in.
No other non-English speaking country speaks better English than the Dutch, which makes living here and getting a job a lot easier. Although finding a job isn’t quite as easy in Holland, if you manage to get one, you will be paid extremely well for it (unless you’re under 21, in which then the minimum wage is less).
You can find English-speaking workers in restaurants, clothing shops, supermarkets and so on. Holland is known for being very multicultural which is why the country is so welcoming to expats. It is also an increasingly popular choice for the students, attracting them with vibrant cities and highly-rated universities.
6. Hungary
The capital city of Hungary, Budapest, is the hidden gem of Europe.
Rich in history and culture as well as festival opportunities, Budapest is a beautiful summer job destination. Many locals will not know English, but fortunately (or unfortunately, depending on how you look at it), the beauty of Budapest is quickly being realised. Tourists are coming at increasing rates, meaning you’ll be able to find something.
The main benefit of working in Hungary is how cheap you will find accommodation and living costs to be compared the rest on this list. This will allow you to save up more money and explore the country while there - it's certainly advised to go an see the festivals here (or work in them if you can).
7. USA
Although it’s harder to get to for Europeans, America offers a lot of summer work opportunities for foreigners.
Whilst some of the places above you generally just turn up and try to find employment, America has a tonne of structure programmes on offer (these will also help you get a visa sorted).
For instance, Camp America is a student exchange programme that gives young people a chance to live and work in summer camps. Not only are summer camps a lot of fun to work in, but you also get a cultural experience, meeting exchange students from all around the world.
This is also a very safe way to work abroad, as you’re well looked after.
- Apply for a summer job in the USA.
8. Ireland
Ireland is a great country to experience summer, you will get to meet friendly local people and also other workers from all over the world.
You can choose from working in world famous cities like Dublin or head to somewhere more local. There are lots of positions available but we recommend applying in the travel and tourism industry where staff are needed.
Arrange Your Perfect Summer
Overall, you can find summer jobs in most places where there is seasonal tourism.
Where you set your sights depends more on where you want to live and what work you want. Party-goers needn't worry much about the wage, and should seek out the blistering hot tourist spots like Ibiza and Ayia Napa. If you prefer cities and have wages a higher priority consider a city like Amsterdam.
Whever you go, make your summer the best of your life.
