How to travel for free: it seems everyone has an opinion of whether or not this is possible. Most trips, whether a business conference, a week-long family getaway or a journalist press trip, usually only allow for a brief overview of a destination. Rarely does the traveler get a chance to indulge in a destination’s culture or learn the “local” secrets. But, there are ways to travel for free and fully experience a destination and Professor Michael Schneider’s book On The Other Guy’s Dime: A Professional’s Guide To Traveling Without Paying has the answer. Michael calls it a working vacation.
I was asked to review the book before its release. And I have to say, it is one of the most inspiring and exciting books I have read. Professor Schneider’s encounter with exotic locations and explanations of how get got there should help you realize how easy it is to travel for free by launching a working vacation. As the book reveals, there are plenty of opportunities for professionals — or anyone for that matter, even the unemployed — to put their experience to work and call an exotic location home. In fact, Michael and his wife have been on 15 working vacations through universities which have ranged from one to nine months.
What I really like about On the Other Guy’s Dime is the author’s candid approach to traveling for free. He admits that not every attempt worked and at one point a misunderstanding made an entire deal fall through, but his positive attitude and determined personality allowed opportunities to pop up even when unexpected. I also admire how Schneider addresses the topic of how children can impact your travels and how working vacations actually embrace families. He also touches on topics such as leaving your home in the care of others, jet lag and the possibility of spousal boredom while overseas. Be prepared for some interesting photos (some will make your jaw drop).
On the Other Guy’s Dime is loaded with tips, which are folded into a captivating narrative about Schneider’s travels and adventures around the world. The book is sure to tempt those with wanderlust in their blood to look at their own experiences and consider taking a working vacation.
Learn more about how Micheal Schneider travels for free and latest adventures on his blog Other Guy’s Dime.
Hmmm, might need to check this one out…
I love to travel. But boy do i hate those excess baggage fees
I will be signing copies of On The Other Guy’s Dime at the New York Times Travel Show, Saturday, Feb. 26th, 2011, at 11:30am and again on Sunday, Feb. 27th, at 12:30pm at the on-site Border’s Bookshop in the Javits Center. If you live in the New York City metropolitan area or will be in the city that weekend please stop by. I would love to have a chance to visit.
G. Michael Schneider