Careers at AFAR: Shaping the Future of Experiential Travel
Join AFAR to inspire, empower, and enrich global travelers through meaningful storytelling and immersive travel experiences.
AFAR is a leading travel media company dedicated to transforming the way people experience the world. By championing purposeful travel and authentic storytelling, AFAR has established itself as a beacon for travelers seeking deeper connections, richer adventures, and personal growth through journeying. If you’re passionate about travel, culture, and media, AFAR offers a dynamic environment to build a meaningful career.
Why Work at AFAR?
At AFAR, we believe travel can make the world a better place. Through our high-quality storytelling, immersive travel guides, vibrant photography, and educational initiatives, we strive to inspire and empower global travelers.
- Purpose-driven Mission: We inspire travelers to journey with intention, curiosity, and respect, making a positive impact on themselves and the communities they visit.
- Diverse Team: AFAR is made up of passionate writers, editors, designers, marketers, and digital innovators who celebrate differences and are united by a commitment to excellence.
- Professional Growth: Team members enjoy opportunities for development, learning, and professional advancement within a supportive environment.
- Culture of Collaboration: Cross-functional teams work together to deliver high-quality content and products across multiple platforms.
- Positive Impact: Our nonprofit programs broaden access to travel and foster cross-cultural understanding.
About AFAR Media
Founded in 2009, AFAR Media is headquartered in San Francisco and New York, with a talented editorial and creative team spanning the globe. We operate across diverse platforms including:
- AFAR Magazine: Award-winning print and digital publication focusing on experiential travel, cultural immersion, and destination storytelling.
- AFAR.com: A leading travel website offering destination guides, news, travel tips, and in-depth features.
- Learning AFAR: Our nonprofit travel scholarship program that supports educational journeys for young people from underserved backgrounds.
- AFAR Experiences: Curated immersive events connecting travelers with local communities and experts.
- Travel Tales Podcast & AFAR Advisor: Digital media initiatives sharing voices, stories, and resources within the global travel community.
Our Mission and Values
AFAR’s mission is to inspire, guide, and enable travelers to have richer, deeper, and more fulfilling travel experiences. Our team is united by a common purpose:
- Inspire Curiosity: Encourage readers to discover unknown places and perspectives.
- Celebrate Global Diversity: Highlight the value of cultural immersion, local expertise, and personal connection.
- Empower Positive Change: Support sustainable travel, social good, and community enrichment wherever possible.
- Uphold Integrity: Deliver unbiased, fact-checked, and thoughtfully crafted journalism in everything we do.
Who Thrives at AFAR?
The AFAR team is comprised of creative, caring, and driven professionals who:
- Value curiosity, adaptability, and open-mindedness
- Thrive in collaborative, fast-moving media environments
- Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion in storytelling and hiring
- Desire to make a meaningful impact on the world through their work
What We Look for in Candidates
While specific skills vary by role, successful candidates for AFAR positions generally share these qualities:
- Passion for Travel: A keen interest in global cultures, travel trends, and adventure.
- Storytelling Excellence: Whether through writing, photography, video, or digital design, you have a knack for compelling communication.
- Digital Fluency: Comfort with modern publishing platforms, social media, and analytics tools.
- Commitment to Quality: Attention to detail and a drive to uphold AFAR’s editorial standards.
- Adaptability: Willingness to embrace new challenges, experiment, and learn.
Current Job Openings
AFAR offers a range of career paths spanning editorial, design, marketing, digital strategy, event production, and administration. Our teams collaborate on a variety of projects that drive our mission forward.
| Department | Common Roles | Core Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Editorial | Editor, Staff Writer, Fact-Checker, Copy Editor | Develop and edit travel features, news, and guides; research destinations; maintain editorial quality |
| Digital Media | Digital Producer, Social Media Manager, SEO Specialist | Manage website content, oversee social media strategy, optimize content for search |
| Design/Creative | Graphic Designer, Photo Editor | Create visuals, curate travel photography, design magazine layouts |
| Marketing | Marketing Coordinator, Brand Strategist | Promote AFAR content and experiences, grow audience engagement, manage partnerships |
| Events & Experiences | Events Producer, Program Coordinator | Develop and execute in-person and virtual experiences, manage logistics |
| Administration | Office Manager, HR Specialist, Finance Analyst | Support company operations, finance, and HR functions |
Visit our careers page to view the latest openings and submit your application. We review every application carefully and encourage individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences to apply.
Benefits and Perks
AFAR values the health, well-being, and development of our employees. Perks of working at AFAR may include:
- Competitive salaries and comprehensive health insurance
- Flexible work schedules and remote work opportunities
- Generous paid time off and holidays
- Professional development programs and travel stipends
- Access to industry events and exclusive travel experiences
- A vibrant, inclusive office culture in San Francisco and New York
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at AFAR
We are committed to building a culture that reflects the diversity of the world we explore. Our approach includes:
- Proactively recruiting candidates from underrepresented backgrounds
- Supporting open dialogue and continuous learning on issues of equity and justice
- Championing inclusive storytelling across all our platforms
Our Editorial Standards
AFAR upholds the highest editorial standards. Our editorial team:
- Produces fact-checked, unbiased, and original journalism
- Seeks to inspire, empower, and enrich readers with every article
- Collaborates with local experts and voices to deliver authentic insights
- Promotes responsible travel, respect for local cultures, and environmental stewardship
Learn more about our editorial standards and meet our team on the AFAR website.
About the Application Process
The path to joining AFAR is straightforward and transparent. Here’s what to expect:
- Review Job Openings: Explore available positions on our website and select the role that best matches your interests and experience.
- Submit Application: Complete the online application form and upload your resume, along with any relevant portfolio materials or work samples.
- Screening & Interviews: Selected applicants are contacted for interviews, which may include phone screenings, video calls, or on-site meetings (where feasible).
- Assessment: For creative roles, you may be asked to complete an editorial test or sample assignment.
- Reference Checks: Finalists are asked to provide professional references before a formal offer is extended.
We strive for fairness and prompt communication at every stage and welcome feedback from applicants on how we can improve the process.
Life at AFAR: What Our Team Values
Working at AFAR means joining a collaborative, innovative, and supportive environment. Our team members share their perspectives:
- “I love how my role lets me connect with people and cultures from around the world while telling stories that matter.”
- “AFAR’s commitment to responsible travel and equity inspires everything we do, from editorial meetings to company retreats.”
- “Experimentation and learning are encouraged here—there’s always room to grow.”
- “I value how our team celebrates our differences and works together toward a common goal.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What types of positions does AFAR typically offer?
A: AFAR offers careers in editorial, digital media, design, marketing, events, and administrative roles, as well as internships and freelance opportunities for creative professionals.
Q: Is AFAR open to remote or hybrid work arrangements?
A: Yes, we support flexible work options, including remote and hybrid schedules for many positions, particularly in editorial and digital roles.
Q: What is AFAR’s view on diversity and inclusivity?
A: AFAR is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds and actively support an inclusive workplace.
Q: Do I need a travel background to work at AFAR?
A: While a passion for travel is essential, we also value strong professional skills in writing, design, marketing, technology, and other fields relevant to your role.
Q: How does AFAR support employee growth and learning?
A: We offer professional development, mentorship, opportunities to attend industry events, and support for employees looking to broaden their horizons in travel and media.
Q: How do I apply for a position at AFAR?
A: Visit our careers page, find your preferred opening, and submit your application online. If your skills and interests are a match, our team will reach out with next steps.
Ready to Join AFAR?
If you’re eager to make travel more meaningful, champion cultural diversity, and tell stories that inspire action, a career at AFAR could be your next great adventure. Explore our open positions on our website, and become part of a pioneering team reimagining travel for a global audience.
