February 28, 2022

5569 Views

Gypsy’s Guide to Adventures in Portland, Oregon

Posted on February 28, 2022May 18, 2022 by Amber Pickler

So, you took an assignment in Portland, Oregon. What should you do on your days off? If it is the typical assignment, you will have 13 weeks to explore the town and those around it. Portland is a beautiful city. There is so much to do in the city and even outside of the city. We have good news; we have a few fun things to do on your days off.

Multnomah Falls

At 620 feet tall, Multnomah Falls is Portland’s tallest waterfall. According to their website, the Falls is located just 30 miles east of downtown Portland along the Historic Columbia River Highway; the two-drop cascade attracts visitors of all types and ages, with wheelchair-accessible viewing platforms and steep hiking trails that lead to the top. Fed by rainwater and snowmelt, the falls’ steady stream runs year-round, making it a year-round attraction. The highest volume comes in winter and spring, and the waterfall sometimes freezes partially at the height of winter.

There is also a lodge on site that includes a gift shop, restaurant, espresso bar, and U.S. Forest Service interpretive center.

Portland Japanese Garden

The Portland Japanese Garden was mentioned by a few people in our Facebook group as a place you need to visit when you take an assignment in Portland. Looking at their website, we can see why this should be on this list. The garden is breathtaking even from the site; we can only imagine what it looks like in person. According to their website, “The Garden sits nestled in the hills of Portland, Oregon’s iconic Washington Park, overlooking the city and providing a tranquil, urban oasis for locals and travelers alike. Designed in 1963, it encompasses 12 acres with eight different garden styles and includes an authentic Japanese Tea House, meandering streams, intimate walkways, and a spectacular view of Mt. Hood. This is a place to discard worldly thoughts and concerns and see oneself as a small but integral part of the universe.”

International Rose Garden

The International Rose Garden is a test garden. I am sure the pictures do the park no justice, but it looks like a beautiful place to visit. According to their website, they serve as a testing ground for new varieties of roses. They say that more than 10,000 individual rose bushes are in bloom from late May through October. They have over 610 varieties, and the majority of the roses grown in the garden are commercially available. About 10 to 20 varieties of roses are replaced each year with some of the best new roses released onto the market. According to their website, Portland’s Rose Society was established in 1888. They have information on their site about the Portland Rose Society if you are a resident of Portland or it is your hometown and are interested in becoming a member.

They offer guided group tours; however, these are unavailable due to COVID until further notice.

Screen Door Restaurant

The Screen Door Restaurant was mentioned by quite a few members of our Facebook group. The restaurant was started in 2006 by Nicole and David Mouton; they had lived in Portland since 2001. They were originally from Southern Louisiana. According to their site, “Our concept is capturing and sharing all that is quintessential in our history and experience of southern foodways layered with what we like to think of as northwest food values. This means eating local, eating fresh from the garden, being passionate about food and where it comes from. To us, this is a perfect marriage of southern comfort food decadence and valuing and honoring the rich bounty of foods produced by our local farmers here in our region. This meeting place of fried and fresh helps describe our food, but to understand us is to consider the meaning of hospitality.”

They offer brunch, dinner, and dessert menus. Each menu offers a variety of options, most incorporating southern and Cajun cuisine. They have something for everything, with their dinner menu offering the most options.

Washington Park

Washington Park has a lot to offer its visitors. It houses the Japanese Garden and the Rose Garden we mentioned earlier, but it offers even more. Including Oregon Zoo, Archery Range, Hoyt Arboretum, Memorials and Statues, Rose Garden Children’s Playground, Tennis Courts, and while not currently open, it also is home to the World Forestry Center Discovery Museum.

Oregon zoo looks like it would make a great place to visit on your day off. There is timed entry, so you must pre-purchase your tickets. According to their website, the zoo is “home to nearly 2,000 animals representing more than 200 species from around the world. Discover how you can help make a better future for wildlife. See for yourself why the zoo is the #1 paid attraction in the state and learn how easy it is to help create a better future for wildlife.”

The Hoyt Arboretum is another excellent option to visit on your day off; according to their website, “Hoyt Arboretum is Portland’s museum of living trees, featuring more than 2,300 species of trees from around the world, along 12 miles of trails. Trail maps are available. Managed in partnership with Portland Parks & Recreation.”

If neither of these things piques your interest, there is sure to be something for you to do at Washington Park. They also offer picnic areas, so you could take your lunch and have a nice quiet picnic outside and relax in the park.

We hope you found this list of things to do on your days off in Portland, Oregon, helpful. We would love to hear if you have favorite places to visit when you take an assignment in Portland or from Portland and have suggestions. Comment them below.

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

By Medely

December 13, 2021

6267 Views

5 Great Cities For Your Winter Travel Assignment

Posted on December 13, 2021December 7, 2021 by Medely

This article was provided by Medely.

When temperatures drop, do your thoughts turn to the beach, the slopes, or somewhere in between? Now that the colder months are here, many Travel Nurses and Allied Healthcare Professionals are thinking about their next destination—and the possibilities are wide open.

Demand for Travel Nurses continues to reach all-time highs, with some estimates that as many as 100,000 positions were available this fall. How can you narrow the list to find a location that will work well for you?

If you’re looking for your first travel nursing assignment, the options can be overwhelming. While there are often very personal reasons behind our choices—such as working with friends, being close to family, chasing childhood dreams—here are a few things to consider:

What are your short and long-term priorities and how can your location help you reach those goals?
What kind of environment do you prefer to work in?
Are you comfortable spending money on your assignment or is saving on expenses a priority?
How do you plan to spend your time when you’re not working?

Once you know the type of experience you want to have, it’s easier to narrow your options—and find the one that’s right for the coming season. Here’s a look at five great cities to consider for a winter travel assignment.

San Diego, CA

Highlights: Warm weather, surfing, relaxed vibe

Average winter temperature (Dec-Mar): 58 degrees

Home to 17 miles of California coastline, San Diego is the place to go if you want city life with a more relaxed vibe. During the winter season, it’s the warm San Diego weather that draws people in—but it’s the friendly people, incredible food, and beautiful outdoors that will really make your time here memorable.

San Diego is a place where life is best lived outside, whether you want to hike, bike, take in a concert, or simply dine al fresco with friends—and it gives you easy access to some of the most popular surfing spots in the state! This means you’ll have a lot of great options for your downtime. And while the cost of living may be higher than other areas to live in, it’s one of the top cities in the U.S. when it comes to quality of life.

Phoenix, AZ

Highlights: Sunny days, budget-friendly, outdoor activities

Average winter temperature (Dec-Mar): 58.5 degrees

Located on the edge of the Sonoran Desert, Phoenix enjoys a mild winter with plenty of bright days—it’s the second sunniest city in the U.S., and even in December still averages 244 hours of sunshine. One notable benefit of being here during the winter: None of the dust storms (aka haboobs) that mark Arizona summers!

During your downtime, you can take advantage of the fine winter months to explore the Phoenix mountain range, located right in the city, or take a tour of the city’s many golf courses. You can also venture into nearby national parks, visit cities like Sedona and Tuscon, or head a few hours north to the iconic Grand Canyon.

Phoenix has also found a good balance between quality of life and affordability. The city is divided into 15 urban villages, each with its own character and style; if Phoenix is the right location for you, be sure to ask around to find the right village for you.

Salt Lake City, UT

Highlights: Skiing and outdoor activities, affordable cost of living

Average winter temperature (Dec-Mar): 22.25 degrees

If you love being outside in the snow and brisk winter weather, Salt Lake City can be an ideal home base. Not only is it close to some of the best ski resorts in the world—including Deer Valley, the number one ski resort in the U.S.—Utah is also home to beautiful mountains and stunning national parks, including Zion, Arches, Bryce, and Canyonlands.

If watching your budget is a top priority, this city is also a solid choice: You’ll have more purchasing power in Salt Lake City than many other cities, including the others on this list. But that affordability doesn’t require a big trade-off: Salt Lake City is a beautiful city that has great restaurants, fun nightlife, plenty of action for sports fans—especially basketball—and Travel + Leisure named it one of the friendliest cities in the country.

Atlanta, GA

Highlights: History, mild winter weather, diversity

Average winter temperature (Dec-Mar): 47 degrees

Many people know Atlanta for its history—from Martin Luther King Jr. and the Civil Rights Movement to the Civil War that left just 400 buildings standing, and even as home to Coca-Cola, one of the biggest brands in the world. But it’s also a vibrant and modern city that’s growing quickly:

It’s young: Millennials make up 25 percent of the city’s population
It’s diverse: Atlanta is particularly known for its strong Black and LGBTQ+ communities
It has a solid economic base: Atlanta has the third-largest concentration of Fortune 500 companies, just behind New York and Houston

What does this mean for Travel Nurses and allied professionals like you? Great restaurants, unique small businesses, a rich culture that’s constantly evolving, and a friendly welcome with genuine southern hospitality.

Atlanta is more for the history buff than the outdoor enthusiast, but the BeltLine—a network of multiuse trails that circumnavigates the city—has quickly become integrated into the community with green spaces, art installations, and lots of different events.

Miami, FL

Highlights: Warm weather, beaches, nightlife

Average winter temperature (Dec-Mar): 70.25 degrees

On the opposite side of the country is Miami, a city where you’ll have too much to do to spend much time catching up on sleep! And winter is the perfect time to visit: Warm weather and gorgeous beaches without the stress of hurricane season. The cost of living in Miami isn’t cheap, but if you’re drawn to the beach, it’s significantly less expensive here than in southern California.

Miami is a melting pot of cultures, with more than 40 percent of the population born internationally—many in Latin America. That vibrancy permeates everything in the city, from its music to its food, to its art scene. A good place to start is in Wynwood, a neighborhood that’s considered Miami’s art and cultural hub—home to 70 art galleries and an evolving collection of street art.

Conclusion

Travel nursing gives you the chance to experience many different shades of winter—avoid it altogether, embrace it fully, or land somewhere that gives you access to a bit of both. Ready to look for the right opportunity to carry you through the cold winter months? Check out the travel nursing jobs available to you on Medely.

Are you looking for housing for your assignment? Click here to search our housing page.

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

By Kristen and Sam Smith

November 16, 2021

4551 Views

Top 10 Things to do In Oahu

Posted on November 16, 2021November 4, 2021 by Kristen and Sam Smith

We spent the last four months of our lives living and working in Hawaii. We have put together a list of the top 10 things to do or see in Oahu.

Pali Lookout

This is probably one of the best views on the island. Most beautiful views of the east side of the island.

Pearl Harbor

The reason that we added Pearl Harbor to the list is not that it is like a tourist thing to do, but just because of how amazing it is there. But more specifically, you want to do the Arizona Memorial. That is where you actually get to see the ship that is sunk underwater, and then there is another memorial where you get to go on the actual ship, The USS Missouri, and that ship is kind of staged where it was back then in the time when Pearl Harbor was attacked. In different areas of the ship, they have different time periods. So, you can see what they used for computer systems and technology in the era; it shows the 60s, 70s, and 80s. They kind of show the progression of how technology has improved. It is fantastic to see if you are a history buff or someone who appreciates our men and women in service. It is a great way to show your respect by giving a day of your time.

Kailua Beach

Kailua Beach is easily one of our favorite beaches here on the island. It is definitely one of the most beautiful.

It’s a very popular beach, so make sure you come early to get a parking spot, or you’ll have to park on the street any time of the day. Honestly, it is really good for snorkeling because every time we went, we saw a turtle, and there are also restrooms and showers that you can always use to refresh yourself up after the long day at the beach. They also have plenty of areas of shade. The accessibility, the bathrooms, and showers are what make Kailua and Waimanalo our favorite beaches in Hawaii.

Waimanalo Beach

What makes this beach so amazing is not only that the water is beautiful, but you have the beautiful cliffside jetting out into the ocean. Which I think is top tier and, of course, shade. Do keep in mind though this is a local beach. The beach is very large, though, so you have plenty of room to spread out. It does have bathrooms as well. At sunset, it is gorgeous. We went on one of our last days in Oahu, and it was just a blue hue all around all you could see, and it was probably one of the most pretty sights we’ve seen on Oahu.

Kamehameha Hwy Scenic Drive

If you start off on north shore and drive all the way down to the east side to Kaneohe, it’s probably the best drive on the entire island. It’s about a 45 to 50-minute drive the entire way. You see the beautiful blue water on one side and the mountains on the other side. It is just gorgeous. We’ve been on two different islands, driven across the big island and Oahu. This is by far the prettiest trek we’ve done.

Germaine’s Luau

After four months of living in Hawaii, one of the last things that we did was Germaine’s luau. We have to say that was an incredible way to end our journey and our time there in Hawaii. You are just treated so well; I guess they treat you with such respect and treat you like a family. I think they’re one of the only ones who do the fire dancers. They are the only ones that traditionally do the pork.

Waimea Valley

You get this beautiful paved hike. It shows you all of traditional Hawaii houses their way, they cook food, they talk about their culture, and you keep going on this pathway. You come across all these beautiful flowers and plants or signs that tell you what the flowers and plants are these beautiful long Hawaiian trees. Then you come up, and you see this beautiful waterfall. Jumping in the waterfall, that’s just you have to do it. The water was very cold, but it was so worth the view. It’s a little swim the way to do it is probably do the waterfall first and hike back, then go to the beach and then you can cool off and just enjoy the rest of your afternoon on the beach.

Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens

I think this is probably the best view of the mountains themselves. You’re right up close to the mountains. It’s free entry. You go into the gardens and see all these plants that can grow on the volcanic soil. So they’re able to grow so much there, and each little section is a different country or a different area around the world. They have camping there, and they have walking trails. There’s so much to do. There’s even a big lake. You just have to go to smell the different flowers and plants, and you can park, or you can drive the long trail. you can stop wherever you want to stop and get out and just sit there for 10 minutes and just smell all the beautiful aromas of flowers of plants enjoy the beautiful scenery

Lanikai Pillbox Hike

I have to say, though, it’s a moderate hike, and I would even rate it may be closer to hard just because of how little shade there is. You have to scramble up rocks at the very beginning of the hike. In the very middle of the hike are the steepest and more difficult parts. You actually have to hold on the ropes to kind of get up to the very s it’s very steep terrain; there were some families there that couldn’t finish the trail with kids they had to turn back. I definitely wouldn’t recommend it for older adults and wear your proper footwear. Still, it’s so worth the views you get of Lanikai Beach and Kailua. The views are pretty awesome, and then behind you, the mountains and you can see there’s a golf course too that’s like right by the um the hike where it starts, oh and you’ve heard golfer like you’re just going to enjoy that because it’s such a beautiful golf course.

Sharks Cove

Shark’s Cove was easily our favorite place that we’ve snorkeled and scuba-dived. I think one time when we scuba-dived there, it was the prettiest scuba dive we’ve ever done; I was crying in my mask because it was so beautiful. There’s a spot for beginner-friendly and kid-friendly. There’s also a spot for freedivers and stuff and you can also swim out like 200 yards for advanced freedivers and scuba divers. It gets very, very crowded, though. There is a lot of parking, but just keep in mind you may have to park on the road and walk a little bit with your gear on. Parking is free, but it’s definitely worth it, and there are restrooms and showers no lifeguard, but it’s honestly beautiful.

We hope everyone watching this video got something positive from it, and you learned something new that maybe you didn’t know about Hawaii. If you have any suggestions for things that we talked about or want to comment on, let us know in the section below. And as always, we want to thank you so much for watching this video, and we will see you guys on the next big adventure.

About Oahu:

On the island of Oahu, Hawaii’s timeless beauty blends with the modern luxuries of today. Swim in the warm waters of the world-famous Waikiki one moment, then enjoy the dramatic mountain views of the Nuuanu Pali Lookout another. Watch the surfers on the legendary North Shore by day, then dance the night away in vibrant nightlife spots around Honolulu. Get a taste of local flavors in Kapahulu one night, then dine at a Five Diamond Hawaii Regional Cuisine restaurant the next. From indulging in urban comforts to escaping to natural wonders, Oahu’s Town and Country experiences are unrivaled. With so much to see and do, you’re never far away from just what you’re looking for on Oahu. Visit the Heart of Hawaii and find the island paradise you’ve been searching for. In this fabulous area, you will enjoy snorkeling, sailing, scuba diving, whale watching, fishing, luaus, parasailing, jet-skiing, and plenty of nighttime entertainment! There are many golf clubs on the island as well, making Oahu a golfer’s paradise!

By Amber Pickler

October 8, 2021

3840 Views

Gypsy’s Guide to Adventures in Bradenton, Florida

Posted on October 8, 2021November 10, 2023 by Amber Pickler

When the weather changes and gets cooler, that is the perfect time to take an assignment in Florida. Bradenton, Florida, appears to be a popular assignment location for travel nurses. We searched our Facebook group and found some recommendations for travel nurses to do on their day off; you will find some of the top recommendations below.

Fun things to do on your day off in Bradenton, Florida

Anna Maria City Pier

While the pier is roughly a half-hour drive from Bradenton, it truly is worth the trip. According to their website, the pier was initially used to drop off-island “day-trippers” coming by steamboat from St. Petersburg and the Mainland. Visitors would stroll down Pine Avenue to what is now the Sandbar Restaurant. They state on their website that “Now the city pier stands as a reminder of the past as today’s visitors still take in the view while enjoying sunny weather.” There is no admission fee to enjoy the pier. At the end of the pier, there is a restaurant and gift shop. You can also fish from the pier as well.

The pier isn’t the only thing to see when you visit Anna Maria. They also offer beaches, parks, fishing, golfing, spas, restaurants & bars (Waterfront or Beach Bistro, to name a couple), and shopping.

Beer Can Island

Beer Can Island is an undeveloped white sand beach located about 26 miles from Bradenton. Many people visit the island via boat. However, you can walk to the island during low tide as well. Many people who have visited the island say it is “like a remote and magical island oasis.”

While Beer Can Island doesn’t have restaurants or bars to visit, the island itself is a great place to relax and spend time in the sun. You won’t have the hustle and bustle, and you can truly unwind from the work-life you left behind.

Siesta Keys

This trip will take you about 40 minutes, give or take each way. But there is a lot to do in Siesta Keys. According to VisitSiesta.com, Siesta Beach was “Ranked the #1 Beach in the U.S. in 2020 by TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Awards™,” They state that “you will quickly understand why when you feel the quartz-crystal powdery sand between your toes, and experience the soft waves and the abundance of sun & fun at gorgeous Siesta Beach.” If you download the Visit Sarasota App and unlock the Beach Pass, you can earn exclusive prizes. The beach isn’t the only thing to do in Siesta, though. You can also visit museums, galleries, parks, go golfing, shopping, enjoy a meal at a restaurant, and end the day with some entertainment and the nightlife that Siesta Keys has to offer. There truly is something for everyone to do in Siesta Keys.

Siesta Keys Oyster Bar

Speaking of something for everyone, one of the top-mentioned places was the Siesta Keys Oyster Bar. While their name would lead you to believe that they only offer oysters, this is not true. They have a full menu with something for everyone. The menu does include oysters, and according to their website, they do Happy Hour every day from 3 pm-6 pm, during which they offer 50% off of oysters. The menu also offers a large variety of other seafood options such as shrimp, grouper, and Mahi, to name a few. They offer appetizers, soups, salads, flatbreads, SKOBWhiches, All Natural Grass Fed Beef Burgers, and SKOB classics. The SKOB classics include such dishes as Chipotle Lobster Tacos, Big Boy Mac N’ Cheese, and Shrimp & Penne Pasta a la Vodka, to give you an idea. They also offer kid’s meals for those who are traveling with their family or children.

Another Broken Egg

Another Broken Egg is also located in Siesta Keys. According to their website, “Another Broken Egg Cafe isn’t your typical breakfast, brunch, and lunch place. Our menu is second-to-none, loaded with fresh ingredients and creative recipes across a wide variety of breakfast classics, memorable brunch dishes, and lunchtime favorites. Each location is designed to feel like a casual getaway, served up with a generous side of family, friends, and friendly service.”

They offer a wide variety of foods and drinks. They have a traditional menu, signature cocktails, gluten-friendly, seasonal selections, a kid’s menu, and a vegetarian menu. There truly is something for everyone. Their traditional menu includes pancakes, French toast, omelets as well as burgers. If you want to dine at Another Broken Egg, make sure to make it an early-day visit as they close at 2 pm daily.

Robinson Nature Preserve

The Robinson Nature Preserve is in Bradenton, and they offer many different options of things to do on your day off as a travel nurse. According to their website, “the preserve now consists of 682 acres that is a mix of preserved mangrove, tidal marsh, and former agricultural lands which have undergone an incredible transformation to coastal wetland habitat.” If you are an outdoorsy type of person, the preserve is a great place to visit. They have something for everyone. The site lists the following activities as things you can do while at the preserve:

Hiking and nature trails
Kayak/canoeing trails and launch
Outdoor education
Non-motorized bicycle trails
Rollerblading
Managed fishing
Picnic areas and pavilions
Wildlife viewing areas
Group camping
Observation tower
Dog walking

So, as you can see, the preserve truly has an activity for anyone.

We hope you found this list of 6 things to do in Bradenton, Florida, helpful. We will continue to bring you articles with things to do in different cities. Is there a city you would like to see an article on things to do? Comment the city below. If you would like to contribute an article about things to do in a city, please click here to email our Content Strategist.

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

By Go Healthcare Staffing

October 1, 2021

6106 Views

When Should I Take Time Off as a Travel Nurse?

Posted on October 1, 2021September 28, 2021 by Go Healthcare Staffing

This article was provided by Go Healthcare.

This is a question that is asked over and over. The best time to take time off? There is no best time, BUT as a travel nurse, one must understand they are supplemental staff to the Full-time staff why the whole industry was created due to Full-time staff shortages. But we are in a pandemic, so here are some ideas.

In between contracts or extensions.

This is the best time if you need a week to take a breather and get recharged. Nurses are being asked to work longer, and in more difficult environments, so it is okay to say you need some time for yourself.

Work with your manager for scheduling.

If you feel burnt out or tired, work with them to see if you could get a week where your schedule may allow for a long weekend or a four-day weekend where you would have a Friday and/or a Monday off. Sometimes you just need a few days….

Not holidays but around the holidays.

Meaning supplemental staff is usually asked to work the holidays due to the Full-time staff wanting to take holidays. Hence there is usually a solid bump for that day or bonus. So if you work with your manager, you can schedule sometime around and still get the benefit of higher pay.

Just like any profession, there is never a good time one feels to take a breather.

Just know work will be there. But understand the pandemic will end in time, and rates will come back down, so if there is a time to work and actually work as many hours as you can, now and the near term would be the time and save some money to take a nice relaxing vacation when the pandemic ends!

We hope you found these tips for taking some time to yourself as a travel nurse helpful. Do you have any advice to share with new or even veteran fellow travel nurses about vacations and time off? Comment them below.

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Need housing for that next assignment? Click here to visit our housing page.

About Go Healthcare:

For every reason you decide to travel, we are there for you. As a Travel Nurse, you have the opportunity to travel anywhere in the country while gaining an enriching experience both professionally and personally. Some reasons you may decide to travel include avoiding “hospital politics” as a staff RN, a chance to see the country, gain clinical experience for your nurse resume, increase your earning potential and connect with friends or family far and nearby working in the same city. We offer our Go RN Travelers exciting travel assignments across the country, competitive pay & benefits, and healthcare insurance from “day one” of your contract.

By The Gypsy Nurse

August 15, 2021

9234 Views

5 Easy Ways to Make a Space Feel Like Home

Posted on August 15, 2021August 15, 2021 by The Gypsy Nurse

This is a guest post by: Kelly Holland.

It can be hard to travel for work when feelings of homesickness arise. Staying busy with a job is great, but you are sure to have downtimes when your temporary living space feels different than home. Consider these 5 easy ways to make a space feel like home while working away from your comfort base:

1. Add Familiar Landscapes

There is no better way to remind you of home than to have a picture, drawing, or painting that reminds you of the landscape back home. Surrounding your new space with a picture of something that you loved back home, whether it be a building, skyline, or main street, will all help with making your new space feel that much more like home. Seeing these familiar places will bring comfort and add a sense of belonging even if you aren’t living in the same area.

2. Incorporate Favorite Plants

Just one or two plants native to your home location will help make your new space feel more inviting. If you didn’t bring any plants with you, consider purchasing a few from a local store or ordering some seeds online. Things like a favorite flower or even dried stalks of wheat will add beauty to your new space as well as help keep you connected to your native home wherever your job may take you.

3. Add Creature Comforts

There is nothing like coming home after a long day at work and snuggling up in something comfortable. Make sure that your new space is filled with comfortable pillows, throws, and a set of extra comfy pajamas that will go a long way in helping you wind down and relax after a busy day. Consider purchasing a few different blankets, one for your bed and one for the couch, to always have something cozy nearby to wrap up in and forget about the day.

4. Print Out Pictures

We know that you have plenty of pictures on your phone. But they can be hard to appreciate and look at when stored in a device. Consider using an easy picture printing app that will help you print those favorite pictures to have in your new space. Hang pictures of family, friends, and a favorite pet on the fridge to bring those familiar faces into your everyday life. Purchase a few nice frames for special pictures that you want to showcase in your new space. Even create a gallery wall that will help your new place feel even more like home.

5. Add Scent to Your Space

Does lavender always make you think of your sister? Or perhaps the scent of home-baked cookies from the oven brings back great memories from grandma’s kitchen? Consider incorporating these favorite scents into your space to make it feel more like home. Walking into your new space after a long day and being engulfed in scents from back home will help bring comfort without even realizing it. Other ways to add scent include purchasing a favorite perfume or cologne that a loved one wears. To be reminded of that person even if they aren’t physically there.

Your new space should be a place of refuge. Where you can come in after a day at work and enjoy your time to unwind, consider placing family pictures throughout the space. As well as pictures of a favorite landscape to make your space more like home. Adding scents from home as well as favorite plants will help create a more inviting space as well. Finally, make sure that your home is filled with comfortable pieces that will help you relax. This can include; blankets, throws, and pillows as an easy way to make a space feel more like home.

Looking for housing while on assignment?

Check out our Housing Section

By The Gypsy Nurse

July 4, 2021

5127 Views

Top Fourth of July Spots

Posted on July 4, 2021July 4, 2021 by The Gypsy Nurse

I don’t know about you, but coming together with family or taking a trip in the summer around the Fourth of July is something I wait for all year. It could be the cool summer breeze off your favorite lake while boating with friends and family or the sights, sounds, and new memories you’re creating in this chapter of your nursing career. We asked you, adventurous souls, where your top Fourth of July spots to celebrate the week and/or weekend of the 4th are and here are our top choices:

Lake Tahoe, California

People come from all around to take in the experience that is Lake Tahoe. Rated nationally as one of the “top 5 Fourth of July” vacation spots. There is no lack of activities for you and yours to enjoy. Take your pick from a plethora of community activities. Relaxing on the beach, cruising around the lake, enjoying the local food and drink specials, and so much more. No matter what you choose to do during the day, the real magic is the choreographed fireworks and music at night. With upwards of 100,000 onlookers, it’s not to be missed.

Boston, Massachusetts

Boston hits the top of the list for being the largest gathering for the Independence Day celebration. It brings in around 3 million people. The cities Revolutionary War history alone draws in guests. The war reenactments, speeches, live bands, and historic heritage keep the visitors coming for more. Most importantly, most events around are free. It’s a great way to indulge in the exciting atmosphere without breaking the bank. Find some great tips for what to do here.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Of course, we would not forget where the Declaration of Independence itself was signed. Philadelphia has an array of fun things to do, and again most of these are free. Between concerts, museums, kids’ activities, an obstacle course, and even a zip line, there is definitely something for everyone to enjoy at this celebration of our country. Even your beloved pets are allowed to join in on the fun.

Everything comes together after the concert (which is said to be one of the largest free concerts in America with guests Mary J. Blige and Boyz II Men) at around 9:30 pm to start the grande finale firework at Ben Franklin Parkway. I could honestly go on for days with the number of amazing activities this city has to offer. Don’t believe me? Check it out for yourself!

New Orleans, Louisiana

It’s hard to talk about celebrating America without mentioning the culture-rich city of New Orleans. Aside from being one of the best places in the US to eat, it’s one of the best at throwing a good party. With unique performances like dueling river barges, synchronized to lights and music, and the amazing Essence Music Fest paying tribute to African-American music and culture. This is sure to celebration you don’t want to miss. Fireworks kick off at 9 pm after the sounds of celebrities like John Legend and Diana Ross.

Chicago, Illinois

It’s hard not to fall in love with a city like Chicago. Seeing the skyline lit up behind the river is truly a sight everyone should see at least once. The Windy City has wonderful spots for every kind of attraction. One of their most captivating would definitely have to be Navy Pier. Whether it be from atop the Centennial Wheel, or rooftop at a beautifully lit building, it’s a must for your Fourth of July bucket list.

Lisle Park District will be hosting the “Eyes to the Skies” event. Food, music, a carnival, and even hot air balloons. During this same time, there will also be a great way to fill your bellies. Head uptown to enjoy the Windy City Rib Fest June 30th-July 2nd. At Wrigley Field, all you need to cheer on the World Series-winning Chicago Cubs is a great hotdog.

Whatever you choose to do during this holiday, we hope you stay safe, and most of all enjoy yourself and your family!! Let us know where you like to celebrate and why you think we need to add it to our list!

Want to see more suggestions? Click here to see what our Travel Nurse Network members said are the best places to be for the 4th of July!

Finished the travel nursing guide and are ready to look for an assignment?

Check out our travel nurse jobs!

By The Gypsy Nurse

May 29, 2021

8597 Views

5 Ways Travel Nurses can make Traveling with Family a more Beautiful, less Hectic Experience

Posted on May 29, 2021May 18, 2022 by The Gypsy Nurse

Being a travel nurse can make very difficult decisions in many ways. Some travel nurses are brave enough to add their families to the mix. Travel nursing with the family has its unique challenges.

Tips for Travel Nursing with Family

Between figuring out a school schedule, finding a doctor, to simply making sure that everyone stays as comfortable as possible throughout your assignment, here are several ways to make your decision a positive impact on your near and dear.

Location, location, location.

One of the main reasons we become travel nurses is for the adventure. The best part is that you can choose your next adventure with every assignment. With that being said, your family can usually pick a location that will keep *most* everyone in the family happy (as if they are all ever happy at once.)

Maybe it’s an ocean view you crave, or you’d all be happy to live near a beautiful park that keeps everyone busy. Searching for housing with short-term leasing options can make heading out on to your next adventure a lot more manageable and stress-free. You can also make life a little easier by narrowing down your search to things as specific as the agency you’d like to stick with, per our new job search tool found here.

Be productive, not busy.

In between saving lives and kissing boo-boos, you can make the best of your free time by prepping for your future endeavors. Whether it’s meal prepping in advance for the family that helps melts your stress away after a long day or knowing that the tablets are charged and snacks are packed for a long car ride, it’s almost essential to have all your ducks in a row when travel nursing with family.

Some tips to stay ahead of the game:

searching for top-rated family physicians in the area
making sure your housing has laundry services on-site or a laundromat nearby
searching for reasonably priced furniture to sell at the end of your assignment

Think of the children.

So what if Mom and Dad both have to work in this whirlwind fairy tale journey? With the help of the internet, word of mouth, or maybe family in the area, you may be in luck. If you are doing this on your own or are entirely new to the area, There are childcare services like Care.com. You can specify what you’re looking for, whether they need to watch one or multiple children, if they need to be CPR/First Aid certified, non-smoking, have their own car, etc.

It is also nice that you can use this site to find help with tutoring. For older children in the household, having someone to come by that has great reviews and is able to do lessons and/or tutoring for specific subjects can be a lifesaver and can make a significant impact on your child’s education.

Technology is ever-changing nowadays and is also very helpful in these situations too. Some travel parents find it worthwhile to travel with a nanny-cam. This makes checking-in effortless in a pinch. Stay-at-home parents can be a beneficial influence. Parents that actively participate in a child’s learning experience and home experience combined to offer a smooth transition.

Explore your mind; and your own backyard.

You can use your child’s homeschooling to your advantage quite a bit when you are traveling. Most cities have an array of amazing museums, art exhibits, nature trails, and even hands-on historic sites. Examples include:

the Aztec ruins in New Mexico
the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C.
Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

These experiences can really help children explore and better understand what they are studying. No matter what your child is interested in, there is usually some way to travel and keep those interests close to “home.”

Another great idea if you have an animal lover at home? Make a list of the best zoos in the country and check out their favorite animals. You can research how they live, where they are from, and how they can help to make the future bright for them too. (There are quite a few free zoos across the US, too, if you’re in a pinch for funds!) To find the best housing in your ideal location, you can explore: http://bit.ly/2FQrYbe

A lesson lived is a lesson learned.

A lot of life’s hardest lessons are perhaps those that don’t necessarily get taught in school. Finding or making new friends, keeping in touch with others long-distance, adapting and appreciating new cultures, locations, and even religions are a big plus to travel nursing with family. There is never a bad time to learn a new language either. Being fluent in another language is very rewarding while traveling and meeting new people and very helpful for your child later in life when applying for jobs themselves.

Life on the road sometimes seems like a problematic choice for travel nurses to make. When you know you are making great choices educationally, and with true life experience at hand, it often leads to the best experiences. Here’s to your family’s best adventure.

Contact us at content@thegypsynurse.com

By The Gypsy Nurse

October 31, 2020

6552 Views

Fall Into the Beautiful Scenery

Posted on October 31, 2020May 19, 2021 by The Gypsy Nurse

For Travel Nurses, a special treat for a fall assignment is enjoying the foliage in certain parts of the US. Leaf peeping can be a relaxing and enjoyable past time when you are not caring for others. As the seasons change the hillsides come alive with majestic beauty. Taking a drive, bike ride, or just a walk is a great way to enjoy the gorgeous colors Mother Nature gifts us each year. Watch your local weather or check online sources to see when the foliage will peak in your area.

Here are some favorite fall foliage spots

North Conway, New Hampshire

This small town nestled in the White Mountains where restaurants, shopping, and a steam engine train ride await will charm you.

Asheville, North Carolina

This popular mountain destination is speckled is vibrant colors and offers vast colorful views.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

The Great Smoky Mountains offer an extended viewing period, for almost seven weeks the colors start in the higher elevations and trickle down to the foothills.

Stowe, Vermont

It’s almost impossible to think about fall foliage without picturing New England. Vermont is one of the most scenic fall foliage destinations. Sugar maples, red maples, red oaks, sweet gums, black gums and sourwoods all produce a red hue. Birches, elms, redbuds and hickories turn yellow and gold, while sumacs produce a maroon color.

Catskills Region, New York

This is an easy weekend trip out of the city. Take in hiking, kayaking and other outdoor recreation while admiring the stunning colors that line the mountainsides.

Breckenridge, Colorado

Unleash your sense of adventure with numerous outdoor activities and the breathtaking views of fall as the reds and gold line the mountainside.

Aspen, Colorado

Aspen is named after the aspen tree, whose leaves turn a beautiful and bright golden color. Before this town is blanketed in snow, visitors and residents alike love to take a scenic drive along Castle Creek Road.

Coopers Rock State Forest, West Virginia

The 12,713 acres will not disappoint. Take in the stunning panoramic view of the Cheat River Gorge. The peeing season isn’t long so be sure to check when it’s expected to peak.

The Gypsy Nurse Job Board offers hundreds of assignment in areas that offer spectacular fall foliage!

Portland Japanese Garden

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

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Conclusion

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In between contracts or extensions.

Work with your manager for scheduling.

Not holidays but around the holidays.

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1. Add Familiar Landscapes

2. Incorporate Favorite Plants

3. Add Creature Comforts

4. Print Out Pictures

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