Could you be the next 'barefoot bookseller' in the Maldives?

If you love books, and you're in search of an exciting new job opportunity, then this could be the perfect position for you!

Imagine the scene: you're soaking up the sun in an island paradise, your feet in white sand, all while being surrounded by shelf upon shelf of books. It may sound like the perfect vacation to some, but this is actually a job description!

A company called Ultimate Library has posted a job offer on the island of Kunfunadhoo, in the magnificent biosphere of the Baa Atoll, in the heart of the Maldives. Your mission, if you accept it, is to manage the bookstore of the Soneva Fushi resort. And here, all book selling takes place barefoot!

Indeed, wearing shoes is forbidden on the island, to promote people's connection with nature. This philosophy echoes the practice of "earthing," which involves walking barefoot in order to enjoy a physical connection with the elements of the Earth (in this case, the sand).

The job description also encompasses all kinds of promotional activities, including writing articles and newsletters for the bookstore's blog, running social media accounts and organizing creative writing workshops. The person hired will also have to carry out administrative tasks, such as managing the store's stock and accounting.

The adventure starts in October for one year, for a salary of $750 per month. The pay may seem modest, but it is offset by meals and accommodation that are fully paid for, as well as unlimited access to the hotel's private beach and spa.

So what are the requirements for a successful application? Excellent writing skills, a love of reading, a passion for books, as well as "the ability to engage with guests of all ages." And, of course, an excellent level of English (spoken and written) is a must.

If this job sounds like a dream come true, you still have a few days to try your luck and apply! But competition is likely to be tough. The online job ad states that "due to the overwhelming response of candidates from around the world," applications will be closing earlier than expected (on August 8 instead of August 13).

© Agence France-Presse