I know many of you travel extensively or work abroad. I'd appreciate any advice, insight, and even contacts anyone might have.

I've decided to pursue working abroad, specifically Europe (UK if possible). I recently traveled there for a three week project and some doors opened to assist on other projects in the future. My wife of 11 years left me while I was filming the show for the History Channel and we're now going through a divorce. It may be some months until it's finalized. No kids. With my background in remote sensing and metal detecting there are a variety of opportunities in Europe. The blessing in disguise is I likely wouldn't consider this move unless I was single. I'd consider it a high risk-high reward scenario if I had a family. With no kids and the way everything ended I feel like it'd be a good opportunity at a fresh start. At least for a few years.

I've looked into UK visas and it appears to be extremely difficult to obtain. Even with a sponsor it looks to be quite difficult. I realize the easiest route would be to already be employed by a company with offices in Europe and seek an internal transfer. That's not an option in my case.

With the nature of what I'm trying to do I don't necessarily need to work in my industry to pursue some of these opportunities on the side. I just need to be there. The UK would be preferred but even a 1-3 hour flight away would allow me to travel there with enough frequency. So if push comes to shove I'd even be willing to teach english in another country in Europe. Again, the decision is a mix of business and personal.

Is it possible to find an European employer to sponsor you without being a current employee?

If anyone has been through the process I'd appreciate your insight.

JarJarBeeps (formerly Dirt Digler)