Last August, while living in South America, I found this job posting on ecoclub.com:
“We are looking for a personable, organized and experienced Travel Consultant to join our team of travel professionals who enjoy sharing the wonders of South America with our discerning and adventurous clientele. Travel Consultants are in contact with travelers from first inquiry to post-trip evaluation …”
I read through the 11 bullet points of requirements. I found the ones I liked the best:
- Enthusiastic and friendly personality with a high energy level
- Must have lived or traveled extensively in South America. Knowledge of Spanish or Portuguese is a plus!
- Nature and outdoor oriented (hiking, camping, rafting, biking experience highly recommended)
Reading more, I discovered that the post was by Southwind Adventures, and that they’re located in my own hometown of Denver, Colorado. If there’s one way to apply all my experience to a job in Denver, I thought, then this is it.
So I got in touch with a resume and cover letter. After months of email correspondence, I had an interview. Since May 1, I’ve been on board full-time with Southwind Adventures.
One thing I really like is its mission:
“Southwind Adventures provides guests with the highest levels of personal service, quality and value in their travels. We operate our trips in a responsible and professional manner, respecting nature and local cultures while sharing the benefits of ecotourism with our host countries. We offer programs that are safe, congenial and educational, rewarding our guests with authentic experiences that open heart, mind and spirit to the wonders of South America.”
Southwind has been practicing ecotourism for over twenty years, so I think it’s a great opportunity to learn from some of the best and most experienced practitioners out there.
What does this mean for my own plans and travels? I’ll be based in Denver indefinitely, with a regular office schedule. But the great part of working in the travel/tourism industry is that the need to travel is understood. One perk in my new position: “Travel to South or Central America for periods of up to 3 weeks, once per year.”
A life in Denver and a job that involves South America sounds like a good move and a new kind of adventure. I am a bit torn about giving up my various freelance positions and my location independence, so I’ll stay on with a few gigs like my newsletter editing position at The Travel Word on the side.
Check out my profile on the Southwind Adventures staff page
Check out some of the South America trips Southwind offers
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