7 Unconventional Travel Jobs That Might Make You Quit on Day One

7 Unconventional Travel Jobs That Might Make You Quit on Day One - Underwater Hotel Room Cleaner in the Maldives

Cleaning the underwater hotel rooms at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island's Muraka presents a truly unusual job. Imagine yourself responsible for keeping pristine an underwater suite that can cost upwards of $10,000 a night. The Muraka, a marvel of engineering, is a two-level residence with an overwater section and the unique underwater part where the bedroom and bathroom offer unparalleled views of the Indian Ocean's vibrant marine life. Your workspace includes expansive windows showcasing colorful fish and coral, making it a visually spectacular but also demanding environment. The pressure to maintain the highest standards of cleanliness is immense, as the clientele expects nothing less from a stay that's a bucket-list experience for many. The underwater setting adds another layer of complexity to the work, and one can only imagine the occasional unexpected encounter with marine life or the challenges of maneuvering within the confined space. While the location is stunning, the job likely comes with a unique set of difficulties, from maintaining a pristine environment in a demanding aquatic setting to ensuring the guests' luxurious experience is nothing short of perfect.

The Maldives' underwater hotel rooms, exemplified by The Muraka at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, offer a truly unique guest experience. These structures, submerged at depths of around 16 feet, demand sophisticated engineering to withstand water pressure and provide a panoramic view of the surrounding ocean. The acrylic domes used in these rooms are incredibly strong and offer a unique vantage point for observing marine life.

Cleaning these unique environments presents a unique set of challenges. Standard cleaning equipment is often insufficient due to the high humidity and salt content, and specific tools are necessary. The maintenance of hygiene within the underwater space is critical, leading to the integration of high-tech UV sanitization systems.

The underwater rooms at these hotels, like The Muraka, often feature a dual-level design. One level above water incorporates standard amenities like pools and decks, while the underwater portion includes the main living spaces, bedroom, and even a bathroom. Connecting these two areas via stairs or an elevator requires clever engineering and design solutions.


The underwater experience extends beyond just the accommodation itself. Specialized features, such as a tunnel viewing theater in The Muraka, have been incorporated for guests' enjoyment. Such investments, like the $15 million spent on The Muraka, suggest the allure of underwater hotels for both adventurous travelers and those seeking luxurious experiences.

The cost of these underwater stays can be astronomical, sometimes exceeding $10,000 per night. This level of extravagance is a testament to the exclusivity of the underwater hotel concept and targets affluent travelers. However, the allure of staying in a luxury villa where the ocean is the view is apparently strong enough to entice guests, especially during holiday periods. These types of unique accommodations are the most expensive in the Maldives hotel market and routinely involve mandatory New Year’s Eve gala dinner supplements.

What else is in this post?

1. 7 Unconventional Travel Jobs That Might Make You Quit on Day One - Underwater Hotel Room Cleaner in the Maldives
2. 7 Unconventional Travel Jobs That Might Make You Quit on Day One - Volcano Tour Guide on Mount Etna
3. 7 Unconventional Travel Jobs That Might Make You Quit on Day One - Ice Hotel Sculptor in Swedish Lapland
4. 7 Unconventional Travel Jobs That Might Make You Quit on Day One - Camel Milk Sommelier in Dubai
5. 7 Unconventional Travel Jobs That Might Make You Quit on Day One - Wingsuit Photographer in the Swiss Alps
6. 7 Unconventional Travel Jobs That Might Make You Quit on Day One - Space Tourism Training Instructor in New Mexico
7. 7 Unconventional Travel Jobs That Might Make You Quit on Day One - Glacier Cave Explorer in Iceland

7 Unconventional Travel Jobs That Might Make You Quit on Day One - Volcano Tour Guide on Mount Etna

Guiding tours on Mount Etna, Europe's tallest active volcano, offers a unique mix of adventure and science. These tours often involve trekking across volcanic landscapes, including lava fields and craters, while knowledgeable volcanologist guides share fascinating insights into the area's geology and ongoing volcanic activity. The experience includes incredible sights like the Bocca Nuova crater and the ever-changing terrain shaped by volcanic forces. While the views are stunning, the job demands physical stamina and adaptability as guides must navigate challenging terrain and be ready for the volcano's unpredictable behavior. It's a great fit for individuals who enjoy a blend of science and adventure and aren't easily deterred by the occasional eruption or challenging weather. However, it's probably not for those who prefer predictable work environments or shy away from unpredictable natural occurrences.

### Surprising Facts About Being a Volcano Tour Guide on Mount Etna


1. **Eruptions Galore:** Mount Etna is a very active volcano, erupting fairly often. It's like a live geology textbook for the guides, constantly changing the landscape. Since 1991, there have been over 200 eruptions, making each tour potentially different.
2. **A Changeable Giant:** Etna's height isn't constant; eruptions and lava flows change its stature. In August 2024, it's about 3,329 meters tall, but this measurement is always up for debate after a big eruption.
3. **Multiple Summit Craters:** Unlike some volcanoes, Etna has many active craters at the top. Guides have to keep tabs on which ones are active to keep tourists safe.
4. **Fertile Volcanic Soil:** The soil around Etna is surprisingly fertile due to the volcanic activity, supporting a vibrant agricultural sector. Famous for its high-quality wines, especially those using the Nerello Mascalese grape, the unique nutrients make a difference.
5. **Shaking It Up:** Being a guide means dealing with seismic activity caused by the tectonic plates underneath. The area is in a very active earthquake zone, so it's not unusual for things to shake a bit.
6. **Diverse Habitats:** The elevation and terrain of Mount Etna lead to diverse ecosystems, from rich vineyards at lower points to harsher landscapes up high. Guides have to adapt their talks to the different environments.
7. **Different Lava Types:** The lava here is primarily basaltic, leading to "aa" and "pahoehoe" formations, which are different in texture and how they flow. Guides explain this variety to visitors.
8. **Local Lore and Legends:** Etna is an important part of Sicilian culture, featuring in stories, art, and history. Guides incorporate these local tales into their tours, adding a historical element.
9. **Gassy Volcano:** Guides have to know the composition of gases like sulfur dioxide, carbon dioxide, and steam that Etna releases. These gases can be dangerous, so guides are trained to recognize risky gas levels.
10. **Handling the Crowds:** As a popular hiking spot, Etna welcomes over a million tourists yearly. Guides need to manage big groups safely and educate effectively, often within strict time limits.

7 Unconventional Travel Jobs That Might Make You Quit on Day One - Ice Hotel Sculptor in Swedish Lapland

Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Jukkasjärvi, Swedish Lapland, the Ice Hotel stands as a testament to artistry and winter wonder. Originally established in 1989, it holds the distinction of being the world's first ice hotel, built entirely from ice blocks extracted from the nearby Torne River. This remarkable structure, which initially began as a 250-square-meter igloo called the Artic Hall, has evolved over time. Each year, the Ice Hotel is rebuilt from scratch, featuring innovative designs and intricate ice sculptures created by skilled artists. This constantly evolving art form guarantees a fresh and unique experience for every visitor.

The hotel's capacity to host around 100 guests caters to a diverse range of preferences, with a selection of luxurious ice rooms alongside standard, warmer accommodation and sauna facilities. The creative talents of the ice sculptors are central to the Ice Hotel's appeal, crafting an environment of ephemeral artistry that both fascinates and challenges. Since 2017, the year-round option ICEHOTEL365 has become available, extending the opportunity to witness the captivating ice creations beyond the traditional winter months.

The Ice Hotel is not merely a place to stay, it's also a showcase of artistry. Its importance as a cultural and architectural icon was further cemented by its designation as one of Sweden's seven wonders in a national poll. However, a job as an Ice Hotel sculptor might not be for the faint of heart. While the experience is undoubtedly unique, working with a constantly changing medium in a freezing environment demands both artistic talent and resilience. Imagine the challenges of your work simply melting away over the course of a few months. Yet, despite these hurdles, the opportunity to create and contribute to a globally recognized marvel amidst the serene beauty of Lapland makes this job a truly unconventional experience.

The Ice Hotel in Jukkasjärvi, Swedish Lapland, is a fascinating example of a temporary structure built entirely from ice. It's a testament to the interplay between artistic vision and the inherent properties of ice. Established in 1989, this hotel is recognized as the world's first ice hotel, originally conceived as an art gallery housed within a 250-square-meter igloo known as the Arctic Hall.


Since its inception, the Ice Hotel has seen continuous evolution, being rebuilt every winter with new designs and ice sculptures. This annual reconstruction creates a unique experience for visitors each year. While it can house up to 100 guests in various levels of luxury, it also provides accommodations in regular rooms and a traditional sauna.


A remarkable feature is ICEHOTEL365, launched in 2017. This initiative allows visitors to encounter the ice wonderland regardless of the season, expanding the reach of this architectural novelty. The Ice Hotel has become a symbol of Swedish culture, recognized in a national survey where it was dubbed one of Sweden's seven wonders.


The annual reconstruction makes the design and the number of rooms fluctuate year to year. Sculptures are built with ice and snow, displaying the artistic talent of a diverse group of artists. While the experience is captivating, it also comes with a financial cost, with double rooms starting at SEK 3200, though the rates fluctuate according to the room's amenities and luxury features.


Ultimately, the Ice Hotel serves not only as a hotel but also as an art exhibit, a breathtaking showcase of the creativity and skill it takes to sculpt in the Arctic environment. It exemplifies how unique designs can be realized within constraints of a naturally occurring, yet ephemeral, material.

7 Unconventional Travel Jobs That Might Make You Quit on Day One - Camel Milk Sommelier in Dubai

Dubai, a city known for its extravagance and global culinary influences, is now experiencing a rise in demand for a rather unconventional role: the Camel Milk Sommelier. This position signifies a shift within the hospitality sector, moving beyond traditional wine pairings and into the realm of niche products. A camel milk sommelier needs a deep understanding of the milk's nuances, ranging from subtle flavor profiles and nutritional benefits to creative culinary applications. Essentially, it's about becoming a specialist in this specific dairy product, making sure guests have the best experience possible.

The benefits associated with sommelier roles in Dubai can be appealing, often including work visas, housing allowances, travel perks, and even flights. But the Dubai hospitality landscape is increasingly competitive. Finding success in such a niche field like camel milk is difficult. While the appeal of a unique career path is there, it's also a field with plenty of challenges, and success may be less likely for those without a strong passion for the product and a knack for promoting it.

Ultimately, the Camel Milk Sommelier role represents a unique opportunity for individuals passionate about exploring different aspects of the culinary world and who aren't afraid to step outside the box. While the chance to explore this exotic field within Dubai's burgeoning hospitality scene holds undeniable appeal, the reality may not be for the faint of heart. It's a tough, but potentially rewarding challenge.

### Surprising Facts About Being a Camel Milk Sommelier in Dubai


1. **Nutritional Profile**: Camel milk, while often touted as having less fat than cow's milk, is surprisingly rich in vitamins like vitamin C and minerals like calcium. It's led to discussions about its possible health benefits and whether it could be a more beneficial alternative in some diets. It's definitely not your standard cow's milk.

2. **Unique Protein Structure**: The makeup of camel milk's proteins, especially a thing called lactoglobulin, makes it surprisingly easier for some people to digest, even those with lactose intolerance. This unusual quality makes it stand out compared to other milks.

3. **Historical Significance**: Camel milk has been part of desert cultures for a long, long time, not just as food but as a crucial source of nutrients for living in tough climates. A camel milk sommelier might find this historical aspect a good point to bring up while leading tastings.

4. **Taste Variations**: The flavor of camel milk changes based on the camel's diet, breed, and where it lives. This introduces a level of complexity for a sommelier, just like how wine varies based on the "terroir" of its grapes.

5. **Culinary Applications**: Beyond drinking it straight, camel milk is used to make other things like yogurt and cheese, giving chefs new and unique ingredients to work with. This introduces new possibilities, but it can also pose challenges in the kitchen as the unique properties affect texture and flavors.

6. **Health Claims Still Being Investigated**: While some say camel milk could help with diabetes or inflammation, science hasn't fully confirmed these things yet. This adds a layer to the sommelier's job as they need to educate people about what's been proven and what's still under study.

7. **Cultural Practices**: In lots of places, camel milk isn't just food, it's tied to traditions, customs, and hospitality. Camel milk sommeliers can also act as cultural ambassadors, helping to bring the story behind the milk into the tasting experience.

8. **Growing Global Market**: Demand for camel milk is growing worldwide, moving beyond traditional markets. This growth likely reflects an increased interest in dairy alternatives, which might make this a good professional path for someone.

9. **Regulatory Challenges**: There are different rules around the pasteurization and sale of camel milk in various places. This makes it tricky for a sommelier because they need to ensure things are done legally, the milk is safe, and it's of good quality.

10. **Palate Development**: Similar to wine sommeliers, a camel milk sommelier has to develop a very sensitive palate to pick out subtle flavors. This requires a lot of training and practice to be able to distinguish the various flavors and ultimately make good recommendations.

7 Unconventional Travel Jobs That Might Make You Quit on Day One - Wingsuit Photographer in the Swiss Alps

### Surprising Facts About Being a Wingsuit Photographer in the Swiss Alps

1. **The Speed Factor:** Wingsuit flying can generate speeds over 120 miles per hour during descent. Capturing these lightning-fast moments presents a significant challenge to photographers, who need expert timing and specialized techniques to catch the thrill of the flight. It's definitely not your typical landscape photography session.

2. **Thin Air, Big Challenges:** The Swiss Alps soar to elevations exceeding 4,000 meters. This altitude has a major impact, not only on the wingsuit flight itself but also on the photography equipment and process. The lower air pressure at such heights can affect how cameras function, potentially requiring specialized gear modifications and adjustments.

3. **Chasing the Perfect Window:** Optimal conditions for wingsuit flying and photography necessitate wind speeds under 10 mph and crystal-clear visibility. These ideal conditions are elusive, meaning photographers often find themselves in a game of patience and anticipation, waiting for the perfect moment that could be delayed or even canceled entirely.

4. **High-Tech Gear for a High-Octane Sport:** Wingsuit photographers often rely on high-frame-rate cameras specifically designed to capture rapid movement and extreme conditions. These cameras are built to withstand the shock of high-speed dives and potential impacts during landings. It's not a job for a casual camera enthusiast.

5. **Aviation Expertise a Must:** To become a proficient wingsuit photographer, you'll need an in-depth knowledge of aviation fundamentals and the physics of flight. Many photographers go through specialized training to get a solid understanding of how wingsuit flying works. This expertise lets them anticipate and capture shots with greater accuracy.

6. **Safety First, Photos Second:** Safety is paramount in this field. Strict protocols are followed, with experienced guides or fellow wingsuit flyers helping navigate the descent. This way, photographers and the flyer can stay focused on their tasks without compromising safety.

7. **Remote Shoots, Potential for Peril:** Many wingsuit photography sessions happen in isolated areas of the Alps, far from standard emergency services. Photographers must prepare for potential emergency situations, carrying essential survival equipment. It's a reminder that the work can have real risks involved.

8. **Alpine Weather's Unpredictable Nature:** The Alpine weather can turn on a dime, creating sudden fog or fierce storms. Photographers must make rapid decisions and be prepared to abandon a shoot instantly if conditions become dangerous. The risks are ever-present.

9. **From Raw Image to Finished Photo:** Capturing those high-speed moments is just the first step. Photographers often spend hours meticulously editing the pictures using software to stabilize images, fine-tune the lighting, and boost colors. This is especially important given the challenging light conditions found at high altitudes.

10. **A Tiny Niche With Big Impacts:** While it might seem like a narrow field, wingsuit flying and photography contribute to the thrill-seeking culture that permeates the Swiss Alps. The stunning images captured by photographers help draw in visitors, bolstering tourism and providing economic benefits to the local communities. The field also serves as a constant reminder of the limits of human adventure.

7 Unconventional Travel Jobs That Might Make You Quit on Day One - Space Tourism Training Instructor in New Mexico

New Mexico's role in the emerging space tourism industry has created a unique and exciting career path: the Space Tourism Training Instructor. This job is about preparing individuals for the experience of space travel, ensuring they're well-versed in safety procedures and understand what to expect during their journey. It involves a mix of teaching and guiding people through the process of experiencing the cosmos.

The pay can be good, with annual salaries often ranging from approximately $48,000 to over $76,000. However, it's a demanding field that calls for individuals who are passionate about space and have excellent teaching abilities. New Mexico's link to the early days of space exploration and its involvement with companies like Virgin Galactic adds an extra layer of excitement to this career choice. The state's growing reputation as a center for space-related employment suggests this career field will likely continue to expand. For those with a desire to explore the final frontier, and a knack for instruction, this could be the perfect blend of education and adventure. It's a chance to help usher in the era of civilian space travel and contribute to a new frontier of human exploration, though with it comes significant responsibility and the need to navigate an evolving field.

### Surprising Facts About Being a Space Tourism Training Instructor in New Mexico


1. **Zero-G Training:** Space tourism training involves simulated weightlessness, often using specialized aircraft nicknamed "vomit comets." These planes execute parabolic maneuvers that create brief periods of zero gravity, allowing trainees to experience space-like conditions for a few precious minutes. It's likely a pretty intense experience, and you can imagine how some might be less than enthusiastic about the results of these maneuvers.
2. **High-G Endurance:** Rocket launches subject passengers to high G-forces, exceeding 3 Gs in some cases. Training instructors must understand how the body responds to these immense forces and help prepare individuals for the physical demands of being blasted into space. It's a world away from the G-forces we experience during everyday activities.
3. **Rapid-Fire Training:** Space tourism companies are adopting condensed training programs, aiming to get participants ready in a mere few days, a significant difference from the multi-year training programs traditional astronauts undertake. Instructors need to compress a huge amount of safety, emergency, and space adaptation information into a short period. It's definitely a fast-paced environment.
4. **Cockpit Simulators:** A crucial part of training includes using advanced simulators that reproduce the interiors of various spacecraft. These simulators offer a realistic training experience where participants practice navigation, communication, and potential emergency scenarios before their actual flights. It's a step towards getting a feel for what it's like to command a vessel in space.
5. **Psychological Fitness:** Space tourism is as much about mental readiness as it is physical. Training includes psychological evaluations and simulated scenarios that help trainees manage the isolation and potential stress of space travel. Preparing for re-entry and readjusting to Earth's environment are also part of the mental training. Dealing with human emotions and the psychological aspects of space travel in a condensed training environment likely requires a particular set of instructor skills.
6. **Booming Commercial Spaceflight:** By 2024, the private spaceflight sector is expected to witness significant expansion with several companies aiming to launch numerous trips annually. This increase in space tourism leads to a greater demand for expert instructors capable of training the wave of aspiring space tourists. The economics of space travel and the training requirements are clearly becoming relevant.
7. **Spacewalk Prep:** Certain training programs might include preparation for spacewalks (EVAs). This requires learning how to move and operate in a vacuum using specialized suits and equipment. The idea of training to operate in such a hostile environment as a space tourist, in a compressed training schedule, is a stark contrast to traditional astronaut preparation.
8. **Medical Screening:** Aspiring space tourists undergo intensive medical examinations to confirm their suitability for space travel. Certain conditions, like particular heart problems or claustrophobia, can lead to disqualification. Instructors have to manage delicate health discussions and explanations. There's a delicate balance between personal health and realizing a personal ambition for space travel that instructors are responsible for.
9. **Regulatory Compliance:** Instructors must keep themselves updated with regulations from organizations like the Federal Aviation Administration. These regulations govern the parameters for training and commercial flights, ensuring instructors deliver training programs meeting legal standards. The industry is evolving with new standards, and it's quite likely that there's a significant amount of ongoing regulatory development.
10. **Global Classroom:** Space tourism training attracts a diverse pool of individuals from around the world. Instructors, therefore, have the added task of navigating cultural variations and making sure the learning experience remains inclusive and fosters a great adventure for everyone. Training diverse groups from diverse backgrounds, in a short time, in preparation for such a life-changing experience, likely requires cultural awareness and empathy as much as training acumen.

7 Unconventional Travel Jobs That Might Make You Quit on Day One - Glacier Cave Explorer in Iceland

Exploring Iceland's glacier caves, particularly those within the Vatnajokull glacier, the largest in Europe, presents a job that's both exhilarating and precarious. These stunning ice formations, featuring frozen waterfalls and intricate icicles, are a sight to behold, but they also pose inherent risks. Recent instances of cave collapses serve as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of this environment. As a glacier cave explorer, you'll spend your days guiding visitors through these icy wonderlands, demanding both physical endurance and a deep respect for the forces of nature. While the allure of Iceland's natural beauty is undeniable, working in these conditions can be demanding. You'll face unpredictable weather, challenging terrain, and the ever-present awareness of potential dangers. It's an ideal role for those seeking a close connection with Iceland's raw landscape, but it's certainly not for the faint of heart or those who prefer predictability in their work.

### Surprising Facts About Being a Glacier Cave Explorer in Iceland

1. **Ever-Changing Ice Sculptures:** Icelandic glacier caves are far from static. They're constantly evolving as the glaciers melt and refreeze, creating a dynamic landscape where new formations appear with each visit. The process is a continuous dance of ice movement, resulting in ever-shifting patterns and structures.

2. **Hidden Warmth Within the Cold:** You might expect an ice cave to be uniformly freezing, but it's not always so. Geothermal heat from below can create surprisingly warm pockets within the cave, leading to temperatures well above freezing, a stark contrast to the biting chill outside. This interplay between frigid exterior and potential internal warmth adds an interesting layer of complexity.

3. **A Spectrum of Ice Colors:** Glacier ice isn't always just white or blue. Depending on factors like density, impurities, and trapped volcanic debris, the ice can exhibit a fascinating array of hues. While dense, air-bubble-free ice often shows a striking blue, volcanic ash or dust can lead to shades of black or even grey, giving the caves a unique visual aesthetic. It's fascinating to think of how a glacier's history is encoded in its colors.

4. **Chemical Transformations in Ice:** As glaciers melt, they release water rich in minerals. This water can percolate into the caves, leading to fascinating changes in the ice's chemical composition. These changes influence the colors, textures, and overall character of the ice formations, adding a constant element of novelty. It's essentially a natural chemical process happening within a very large and slow-moving environment.

5. **Ice's Fragile Art:** Glacier caves can develop features like ice stalactites and stalagmites, formed when dripping meltwater freezes. But these features are precarious. They are sensitive to environmental fluctuations and the delicate dance of temperature and moisture, and their presence highlights the transient nature of the caves.

6. **The Dance of Glacier Movement:** Understanding glacier dynamics is a complicated undertaking. Meltwater erodes and carves underneath glaciers, forming a network of caves that is subject to both collapse and expansion, influenced by climate and the glacier's health. This ever-changing and delicate environment requires a deep understanding to safely explore.

7. **Icelandic Fire and Ice:** Many Icelandic glaciers lie atop active volcanic systems, an interaction that adds another level of dynamism to the ice caves. The geothermal activity can significantly influence how the ice within the cave forms and behaves, making for an extremely unique and unpredictable environment. It's a constant interplay of forces from both within and beneath the Earth.

8. **A Balancing Act of Risk and Reward:** The beauty of these caves also presents a significant set of challenges and risks. The melting ice can lead to sudden collapses or shift, posing significant dangers to those exploring within. Skilled guides are essential to navigate these dangers, highlighting that exploring these caves is an adventure that should never be taken lightly.

9. **A Multifaceted Skillset:** Exploring glacier caves requires a blend of mountaineering prowess and glaciological expertise. Guides leading tours generally possess certifications in ice climbing, rescue techniques, and a thorough understanding of how glaciers work to ensure visitor safety. The skills required to be a successful guide highlight the complexity of the environment.

10. **Chasing the Ephemeral:** The accessibility of many glacier caves is quite ephemeral, influenced by seasonality. Increased summer melting can make access routes dangerous, while winter can create entirely new cave networks. The time window for exploration is limited, encouraging explorers to seize opportunities before the caves transform once again. It really emphasizes the transient nature of this unique environment.