You’ve decided to take the plunge and experience the wonderful world of travel healthcare. Whether it’s your first travel contract or 40th, I’m sure you’re excited to see new, interesting destinations across the country! When considering new assignments, one of the most important criteria for travelers is location. In fact, for many people, choosing a city to travel to is like choosing a home and the most important item on the list is location, location, location!
While certain cities seem to be on nearly everyone’s bucket list, you shouldn’t discount some lesser known gems. Many cities provide the same amenities as popular tourist destinations, but might be considered to be off-the-beaten-path. Let’s take a look at some destinations that might not be on your bucket list yet and are full of fun and amazing opportunities!
For the city lover:
Are you looking for a place with big city amenities? Consider two Midwestern cities with outstanding nursing opportunities and low cost of living. Omaha, Nebraska and Kansas City may get fewer tourists than Chicago, but they are full of exciting things to do, much shorter commutes, and exceptional hospitals! These cities have a mix of large Trauma I hospitals and smaller facilities scattered around the metro area. In Omaha, check out the Henry Doorly Zoo, which was named the Best Zoo in the World in recent years. Omaha is also home to a vibrant arts scene, Maha Music Festival, the College World Series of Baseball in June, and the Old Market, a historic district with eclectic shops and unique restaurants.
Kansas City stretches across two states, Kansas and Missouri, and also has a mix of nationally ranked hospitals and small critical access facilities. Known as the “City of Fountains,” Kansas City is home to multiple professional athletic teams, including the Kansas City Chiefs football team and the Kansas City Royals baseball team. The Kansas City Speedway is a premier destination for NASCAR enthusiasts. There are many different neighborhoods with tons of personality, all minutes away from the major city attractions. Shopaholics must explore the European-inspired Country Club Plaza and Zona Rosa.
For the mountain lover:
Certain cities might come to mind when you hear the word “mountain,” but check out these towns full of outdoor activities and nursing opportunities. Many travelers who work in Rapid City, South Dakota immediately fall in love with the surroundings. Nestled in the Black Hills, Rapid City is located mere miles away from Mount Rushmore. Not far away is the famous Sturgis Motorcycle Rally and Deadwood, South Dakota, which is the resting place of Calamity Jane and Wild Bill Hickok.
Another beautiful city for a travel assignment is Jackson, Wyoming. This small town is in the valley of the Tetons and is perfect for anyone who loves the outdoors. In the winter, there’s skiing of all kinds: cross- country, snowcat and helicopter skiing! Be sure to check out snowshoeing or dogsledding. In the summer you’ll find the community enjoying fly fishing, white-water rafting, or taking hot-air balloon rides. Jackson is not far from other beautiful cities such as Boise, Idaho and Salt Lake City, Utah.
For the water lover:
While Florida’s beaches draw many travel healthcare professionals, other destinations have beautiful coastline, amazing seafood, and plenty of travel positions! Brunswick, Georgia may not be as famous as Miami Beach, but this picturesque community offers a spectacular lifestyle. Another less-discovered destination which is perfect for a lover of the sea is Rockland, Maine. This small community is a popular tourist destination in the area, with gorgeous beaches, lighthouses, and of course, lobsters. You can partake in whale watching on the weekends, lighthouse boat tours, and even a ferry ride to Canada.
The United States is a massive country filled with countless exciting places perfect for new or experienced travelers. While many extremely popular travel nursing destinations exist, I encourage you to take a chance on one of these phenomenal destinations. These less discovered communities are home to excellent hospitals, and are a fantastic alternative to the most popular travel destinations. If you’re looking for a chance to try something new this year, start with a travel location in the heartland or off the beaten-path.
Bradley Rediger is an Account Manager with the Nursing division of Aureus Medical Group.