You’ve signed the travel nurse contract, packed your bags, and you’re ready to start the adventure! Most travel contracts will last 13 weeks and will flash by quicker than you think. If you are traveling to a new place, you want to make sure that you are making the most of the city and exploring all that you can in the short amount of time you are there.
We know that this is easier said than done, so we’ve compiled a few tips that can help you start your travel nurse assignment the right way.
Research, Research, Research
In between packing, gathering your documents, and finding housing, make sure you are finding time to research your new destination too. A simple Google search will help you get started and lead you to articles from travel websites such as Tripadvisor or the city website filled with guides and things to do.
You can also conduct research through social media and utilize your friends. You can try posting to your friends on Facebook or other social media where you are going. Chances are at least one person has been there before or knows someone there. They can help you with recommendations, areas to look at for housing, and more. Nothing beats first-hand accounts from people you can trust.
Pick Out Something to Look Forward to
If you’re new to this type of nurse job, it might be easy to get to your assignment, work your shift, and not go out and explore the new city you are in. However, that goes against the entire point of becoming a traveler!
While you are researching, pick out one or two things that you can look forward to. Whether that is hiking a nearby trail, eating out at a luxurious restaurant, or visiting a local hotspot, having something picked out in advance that makes you want to explore will help you start out on the right foot. Doing your job well and responsibly is great, but you owe it to yourself to really enjoy and take advantage of your traveling nurse appointment.
Be Prepared to Fully Immerse Yourself
If you are traveling someplace new, the best way to make sure you get the full experience is to completely immerse yourself in the city, and the job. Talk with coworkers and have them recommend what places you must see, opt to only visit local stores and restaurants as often as possible, and try to make friends with your neighbors.
Do a Test Run
When you first get to your new city and have dropped off your bags, another way to ensure success and get off on the right foot is to do a first-day test run. This means before your actual first day you will get up, pack and head to work to see how long it takes you to get to your job, how bad traffic is, and helps you to feel more confident for your actual first day.
This is when you can also scope out any other businesses nearby that you may stop at for a meal or to run errands. Who knows, maybe you will find just the perfect spot to enjoy and remember once your contract is over and you leave the town.
Come to your Travel Nursing Contract with a Positive Attitude
Even if you are traveling somewhere you’ve always wanted to go, sometimes your expectations will not match reality. It’s always best to come with a positive attitude and never judge a place too soon. You may have an off the first day, or it may take you a week or two to get adjusted and feel comfortable. Just remember that you know what you are doing, this is a chance to grow, and to smile.
The best way to start your travel nurse assignment is with Ventura MedStaff. We can help you find jobs at your dream locations and be with you every step of the way. When you are ready to become a traveler, or looking for a change, we are here for you. Reach out to our recruiters and discover a new world of travel nursing. We promise you will love it.
