This might surprise you, but working at a resort hotel is not all fun in the sun. Although lets be honest, you are working in some of the most beautiful locations in the world, and you'll probably enjoy some incredible experiences while you're not working.

The fact remains however, that you are being paid to work, and you will be expected to work hard, just as you would aboard a cruise ship or if you were out leading a tour. Additionally, although you will likely be surrounded by spectacular scenery, beautiful weather, and first-rate amenities, it may surprise you to learn that you won't have as much time off as you think. Resort job shifts are long (almost always longer than 8 hours) and most employees will be expected to work at least six if not seven days a week. There will be the occasional free day off, but these are few and far between since resorts can only employ so many people and the duties of resort employees need to be attended to consistently.

One of the most important things to consider is that your resort job is still a job. You need to be ready to work hard during your tenure and not expect high pay with lots of free time off just because that's what is desirable. It simply isn't realistic. Issues like separating your work time from your time off can be difficult, as one former employee of a Dominican Republic resort puts it:

"It is hard because you don't have a lot of time to yourself and you don't have a lot of privacy. You have to have a smile on your face at all times. If you're not in your room asleep, you are working."

It may not feel like you're taking a break when you are surrounded by co-workers and guests, even while off the clock. Furthermore, at some resorts it's required that you always be "on" while in front of guests, ready to answer questions and attend to problems whether it's your shift or not.

As another resort insider explains:

"You don't get much time off. You've got to really love it or you can get burned out, just like anything else."

A job at a resort does require a high level of commitment. But with a little research, a good attitude, and a bit of hard work, you could land a great job, a place to live, and plenty of opportunities to take advantage of the spectacular setting and amenities of your job. The travel opportunities are seemingly endless, the pay can be promising and if you're mentally prepared to work hard, it can translate into the experience of a lifetime.

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