%20clear.png)
"Where do you live?"
"Anywhere I want. Everywhere I can."
For years, this was my answer to one of the most common questions I received. My life as a digital nomad and international pet sitter was anything but typical, and it sparked curiosity wherever I went.
I wasn’t following the 9-to-5 routine or chasing the white-picket fence dream. Instead, I was living out of a backpack, working remotely, and discovering the world in an unconventional and incredibly fulfilling way.
Now, I want to share my story – and show you how you can create your own.
From Teaching to Traveling
While I will admit that the full tale of this story is quite a long-winded saga, I will keep it short!
To give you some context, after graduating from university, I spent 6 weeks backpacking through Europe with a friend. While that is a tale for another day, it sparked my desire to see the world.
What did I do? I packed my bags and headed to South Korea to teach English as a Foreign Language. For an entire year, I immersed myself in a culture that was as challenging as it was exhilarating. There’s a whole book’s worth of stories from that time—getting epically lost my first week abroad, learning Taekwondo alongside students half my size, and even spending a peaceful weekend with monks at a temple (I even got a compliment!)
During my time in South Korea, I loved being a teacher and found deep fulfillment in the role, but as my contract came to an end, I felt the pull of adventure calling me to explore more of the world.
Returning to the U.S., I wasn’t ready to settle down into the “normal” routine. I wanted to continue exploring the planet, but I didn’t have a roadmap. With no clear direction, I started by looking at the skills I already had. Teaching was one of them, and I discovered I could transition to online English teaching. Platforms like DadaABC and Cambly gave me the flexibility to work remotely, teaching kids and adults from all over the globe.
However, teaching alone wasn’t enough to fund a full-time travel lifestyle, especially when it came to accommodation costs. That’s when I stumbled upon an unexpected solution: international pet sitting.
Through online platforms, I found opportunities to care for pets and homes around the world. Pet sitting wasn’t just a way to travel—it became a way of life for me. Rather than paying rent, I bought airplane tickets - trading hotels or hostels for cozy stays in homes filled with furry companions.
Over the next couple of years, my travels took me across the U.S., with stays in places like Florida, Nevada, Texas, Washington, and California. But it didn’t stop there—soon, I was pet-sitting internationally, with assignments in England, Ireland, Canada, and even Argentina.
Each pet-sitting job offered a unique experience - something that I never would have had the opportunity to do working a “normal” job. From walking a super smart pup through charming villages of Kings Langley, England, to caring for a shy cat in a sunny corner in Qualicum Beach, Canada, I got to see new places through the eyes of locals.
During this time, I found a rhythm that balanced responsibility and adventure. I lived in these homes for weeks at a time, creating temporary lives in new places, and working part-time as a freelance writer while continuing my teaching. In between pet-sitting assignments, I would backpack in the area I had just been, then hop on over to the next stop. This combination of remote work and pet sitting allowed me to explore the world on my terms—and I wouldn’t trade those experiences for anything.
However, like with everything, sometimes you have to mix things up!
The Digital Nomad Evolution
As much as I loved teaching English online, it wasn’t always feasible. Internet connectivity became an issue in more remote locations—looking at you, tiny village in Argentina! It was during this time that I discovered freelance writing, specifically copywriting, as a way to continue working while embracing my nomadic lifestyle.
Once I found copywriting, there was no turning back. What started as a side hustle quickly became my passion and the foundation of my future career. Over the next year, I committed myself to building my business. I juggled client projects between pet-sitting assignments, using every spare moment to improve my skills, deliver exceptional work, and grow my portfolio. Bit by bit, I was able to make enough to fund my travels and even set aside a little extra for a rainy day.
That rainy day came when COVID-19 hit!
When the world went into lockdown, I was incredibly fortunate to find myself in Covington, Washington, on a long-term house-sitting assignment. Unlike most of my previous arrangements, this one lasted far longer than planned. The homeowners decided to extend their stay where they were—allowing me to stay at their home for nine months - yes, you read that right!
This was a pivotal moment in my journey. With international pet sitting completely paused and the world shifting to remote work in new ways, I had to reevaluate my path. The choice was clear: it was time to go all in on building my copywriting business, Crystal Clear Copy.
I poured everything into this next chapter. I worked tirelessly to expand my client base, refine my skills, and develop a business model that would support not just my travels but also a more stable, sustainable lifestyle. Over time, my side hustle grew into a thriving remote business that provides me the freedom to work from anywhere—or settle down when I choose.
Looking back, that unexpected pause gave me the opportunity to pivot, focus, and build something that aligns with my passions and values. My journey taught me that, with the right mindset and determination, you can adapt to life’s curveballs and create a life you love. Crystal Clear Copy is more than a business—it’s proof that taking risks and embracing change can lead to incredible growth.
Why I’m Sharing This Story
Many people tell me, “I wish I could live like that.” My answer? You can.
It’s not always easy, and it’s not all Instagram-worthy moments. However, with determination, creativity, and some planning, anyone can carve out a life of freedom and adventure.
While pet-sitting days are over (I decided to settle down in my favorite city, get married, and buy a house these past couple of years), the lessons remain the same, and the opportunity is still available for those who are willing to jump at it.
That’s why I’m considering writing a book: "I Traveled the World as a Pet Sitter – And You Can Too!"
In this book, I’ll share the highs and lows of my international pet-sitting journey, along with practical advice for anyone looking to break free from the norm. You’ll learn:
How to start traveling the world as a pet sitter.
What goes into creating a sustainable lifestyle as an international pet sitter.
How to combine adventure and responsibility in a way that works for you.
Help Make This Book a Reality
Before I begin writing, I want to gauge your interest. There’s no point in writing a book if people don’t want to read it! If this sounds like a book you’d love to read, I’d be thrilled to have you join my book list.
By signing up, you’ll:
Show your support for the book.
Be the first to know about updates and sneak peeks.
Get notified when this book – and others – are published.
Whether you’re dreaming of a digital nomad lifestyle, considering a career change, or just curious about my pet-sitting adventures, this book will inspire and empower you to explore new possibilities.
Let’s make this dream a reality – together!
Hey there, avid reader! 👋
Loved what you just read? There's plenty more where that came from! 🚀
Join our exclusive email list and be the first to get the scoop on our latest blogs. Whether it's insightful industry tips, thought-provoking discussions, or just something to make your day a bit brighter, we've got you covered.
Chelsey
Chelsey is the founder and head copywriter of Crystal Clear Copy. She is an avid writer, published author, and lover of cats and craft beer.
Comentarios