Travel and Tourism Internships in South Africa
Travel and Tourism Internships in South Africa; There are so many options one can consider within this field. There is excitement, adventure, and travel, along with socializing and management. Many companies seek young, talented candidates who would like to pursue a career within this industry.
Tourism usually implicates the exploration of new things and the wonder that the world has to offer. This may include research, recreation, vacationing, trade, communication, cultures, discovery, and relaxation.
Candidates will be able to gain great knowledge while learning hands-on how each part of the industry works. They will be able to build up their skills in leadership, development, client relations and more.
Travel and Tourism Internships Available
This field or industry has multiple options for candidates to consider. This field includes businesses within the public and private sector, travel agencies, event management companies, convention management companies, airlines, boat cruises, wildlife parks, car rental companies, government agencies and more.
Fields may include the following and more:
- Retail consultant
- Tour consultant
- Travel consultant
- Conference consultant
- Travel agent
- Tourism information officer
- Tourism official
- Tourism development coordinator
- Travel-tour coordinator
- Events manager
- Events coordinator
- Cabin crew
- Ground coordinator
- Flight attendant
- Sales representative
- Records management
- Transport manager
- Game ranger
There are also many companies offering travel and tourism internships within all fields of the industry. Some of them who may offer internships:
- Department of Tourism South Africa
- PenTravel
- Itravel Tourism
- Sun International
- FNB
- The Backpack Hostel
- South African Tourism Company
Travel and Tourism Internship Requirements
Each company has their own conditions that candidates will have to meet in order to be able to apply. We have compiled some of the basic requirements. Please ensure you know what the stipulation is of the company you are applying to. Most companies prefer candidates between the ages of 18 and 35.
Though for most positions within this industry, candidates can look at the following requirements:
- Must be a South African citizen, with a valid ID document
- Must hold a valid Matric
- Must be proficient in English – read, speak & write
- Must be computer literate
- Must be prepared to work long or irregular hours or shifts
- Must be able to excel under pressure
- Must not have any criminal record
- Must have great interpersonal skills, must enjoy being social and have strong communication skills
- Must have a basic background in tourism, or a diploma/degree within their field of application
Most internships are for a duration of 6 to 12 months. Some companies may offer successful candidates a contract for up to three years. Some companies may also offer candidates a permanent placement, but not all do. Candidates are urged to also include a cover letter, referrals as well as a detailed Curriculum Vitae.
Candidates are reminded to please only send certified copies of all documentation and not their originals.
Travel and Tourism Internships Application
Travel and tourism internships online applications will vary from company to company. Most companies do however provide online application processes and these can usually be found on their websites under their careers tab. Most companies include a monthly stipend. Some companies also require their candidates to travel or work in rural areas.
Only successful candidates who make the shortlist will be contacted. If you have not heard from the company you applied to within 3 months of the closing date, candidates may deem their applications as unsuccessful.
Many candidates who are selected can expect to have contact with a variety of tasks in this industry. Some of them may include the following:
- Exploration, research and company management duties
- Customer care
- Assisting in updating information
- Performing daily duties of the company, as part of a team
- Assisting with modifications
- Organizing events, parties or planning
- General administration
- Making bookings
- Scheduling maintenance
Travel and Tourism Internships Closing Dates
Closing dates will depend on each company that offers internships within this industry. Candidates can find out from their University Career centers about any open internships in this field, or seek current openings in newspapers and online.
This is an exciting industry to be part of. Candidates must, however, ensure they complete all forms, sign them, adhere to all stipulations and attach all certified documentation. Good luck to all travel and tourism candidates.