December 31, 2018

10277 Views

Day Tripping in San Diego

Posted on December 31, 2018November 28, 2023 by The Gypsy Nurse

Get out and enjoy your San Diego travel nurse assignment!

If you are a San Diego travel nurse, you’re in for a treat!

San Diego is California’s second largest city and offers more than 70 miles of white sand and sparkling blue waters.

San Diego boasts beautiful weather year round with an average daily temperature of 70.5° F. With over 4,200 square miles to explore, you’re sure to find something that strikes your fancy. Downtown you will find public transportation is readily available and you can choose from bus, trolley and train.

Day Tripping for the San Diego Travel Nurse

Here are just a few suggestions you might enjoy as a travel nurse working in the San Diego area.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Seaport Village
Balboa Park
Kendall Frost Marsh and Northern Wildlife Preserve
Beaches

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Just 30 miles north of downtown the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is a 1,800-acre reserve that is 365 days a year. With miles of trails and paths that meander through natural habitats, you’re sure to catch beautiful animals at rest and play.

Use the Park’s online feature to plan your itinerary with the specific animals you don’t want to miss. Check out behind the scene safaris and daily showcases for an up close and personal experience.

Seaport Village

This unique experience offers more than 50 shops, 17 eateries and outdoor entertainment. Browse through shops for clothing, souvenirs, art, and toys—get gifts for others and yourself. In addition, this is a great place to invite other San Diego travel nurse’s to join you for a day or evening out.

Enjoy the lagoon, a 1895 Loof Carousel with over 30 hand carved animals, marina and many sights to stimulate your senses. The Seaport Village offers a resident caricature artist, face painter, balloon artist, free concerts, and a breathtaking view of the Coronado Bridge.

Balboa Park

Visit the 1,200 beautifully landscaped and planted acres ranked as one of the Best Parks in the World. It features 16 unique gardens including the Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden that features more than 2,400 rose bushes.

The Botanical Building offers a Koi and Lily Pond outside and over 2,100 plants including collections of cycads, ferns, orchids and palms inside. Balboa Park also houses 15 museums and theaters.

As a travel nurse, sometimes you just need to get away from the craziness of the city and get back to nature. This is a great place for the travel nurse to unwind. www.balboapark.org

Kendall Frost Marsh and Northern Wildlife Preserve

Bird watching is a popular attraction in the San Diego area. Birders can take in four distinct bird habitats all in a single day. In fact, more than 480 species of birds have been observed in San Diego County, more than any other county in the United States. Kendall Frost Marsh and Northern Wildlife Preserve features about 20 acres of salt marsh and open waters is home to two endangered species of birds.

Sightings from the observation platform include the Light-Footed Clapper Rail and Belding’s Savannah Sparrow, as well as swallows, grebe, pelicans, and herons.

Beaches

With 70 miles of beaches to choose from, some of the most notable waterfront attractions are Mission Beach, Pacific Beach, Sunset Cliffs, Ocean Beach, and La Jolla. The vibe at the beaches varies and it can change seasonally as well. Factors such as tourism fluctuation and school schedules can influence crowds.

Be sure to research before you go and investigate the aspects most important to you. Some of the variables include lifeguard staffing, open fire rules, dogs and off leash dog regulations, adjacent parking, retail options, eateries within walking distance, family friendly features, and surfing activity.

San Diego travel nurse’s have described the beaches here as some of their favorites! You’re bound to find one that’s perfect for you.

Are you looking for your San Diego travel nurse contract?

Check out these travel nurse jobs in San Diego

By The Gypsy Nurse

December 29, 2018

10888 Views

7 Ways to Prevent Dry Eyes While Traveling By Plane

Posted on December 29, 2018December 19, 2022 by The Gypsy Nurse

Guest Post By Aaron Barriga:

7 Ways to Prevent Dry Eyes While Traveling By Plane

Do you travel often and experience dry eyes? Have you been ignoring it but wondered why this happens? Due to the control in air pressure and dry environment, it can take a toll on your eyes. Dry eyes, if not treated, can prevent your eyes from producing enough tears, which will make you feel irritated, and your eyes feel itchy. However, the good news is that you can ease the discomfort while on a plane by keeping these tips in mind. These 7 tips will also be vital if you are traveling with kids that may experience the same.

1. Keep Yourself Hydrated

Keeping yourself hydrated is very important. If you enjoy coffee, tea, or alcohol on flights, make sure you ask the air hostess for a bottle of water instead of a cup each time. That will ensure adequate hydration.

2. Carry a Bottle of Eye Drops

Try to carry a bottle of eye drops along with you whenever you travel, but make sure only to use eye drops that a doctor has prescribed. If you’re traveling with a child, you may want to consult your doctor if he suffers from the same.

3. Use an Eye Mask

Use an eye mask to protect your eyes. Although it may not be a great fashion statement, an eye mask may induce sleep, blocking out sources of light and protect the skin around your eyes. If you have checked in at a hotel room, an eye mask will be equally helpful in preventing the light from messing with your sleep.

4. Switch to Glasses

Switch to glasses while flying, as contact lenses may increase the chances of dry eyes and hurt your eye health. Moreover, glasses are much easier to nap with than contact lenses if you’re watching many media.

5. Switch Off Air Conditioning

Switch off the air conditioning vent above your seat if you’re flying to prevent dry air from blowing directly onto your face. Since the cabin climate is fairly low, doing away with the extra air conditioning can give you some relief from dry eyes.

6. Give Those Eyes Some Rest

Give your eyes some rest, and try to avoid spending too much time on digital screens. Get up, move around, meditate for a few minutes, close your eyes for a while, and think of what you will do when you land.

7. Blinking Exercises

Blinking exercises not only relieve you of dry eyes but also alleviate headaches and blurry vision.

With all the precautions that you can take, some airlines aim for a more comfortable cabin climate since passengers travel frequently and for long hours. Moreover, check with your airlines about regulations on carrying liquids such as eye drops in your handbag. Keeping one with you would assure a pleasant travel experience.

Who Can Get Dry Eyes?

People above the age of 50 are generally more prone to suffer from dry eyes.
If you’re taking some medication, check with your doctor if one of its symptoms is dry eyes.
Pregnant women or women undergoing menopause can experience dry eyes
Wearing contact lenses

Ignoring dry eyes can lead to dry eye syndrome. In severe symptoms, address the issue promptly and contact an Ophthalmologist to get early treatment.

Author Bio:

Aaron Barriga is the writer at Studyclerk and online marketing manager for Insight Vision Center, an Ophthalmology Center in California. Aaron loves to share what he knows and what he learns with a knack for understanding medical procedures and an interest in eye and vision health. He blogs to inform readers about the latest eye care technology and other topics related to eye care, especially LASIK. Aaron loves collecting coasters from the different bars and restaurants he visits during his travels.

By Bianca Festa

October 1, 2018

10040 Views

What To Do While On Assignment In The Sunshine State

Posted on October 1, 2018May 20, 2021 by Bianca Festa

Being a travel nurse, you’re always on the move. It can be exciting and refreshing to pick up your stuff and stay in a place that maybe you’ve always wanted to go to or go somewhere that you didn’t really expect to go to, but you thought, “Hey, why not?”. While you’re living in your new home, you’re going to learn a lot about the new place you’re staying at and doing a job that’s making a difference in people’s lives!

For some Travel RN’s, the thought of what to do or see when you’re in a new location may cross their mind. If you’re a Travel Nurse who’s on assignment in Florida, the sunshine state, here are some fun things to do and places that are worth a visit:

Duval Street, Key West

Duval Street is located in downtown Key West Florida and by day, it’s a fun place to shop with something for everyone and offers boat tours. Also, only a few minutes away, is the Southernmost Point Buoy where people come to take a few pictures (and some selfies) at the Southernmost Point of the continental U.S. As the evening approaches, Duval street comes to life, and the variety of restaurants and famous bars are full of people who come to eat delicious meals, listen to live music and enjoy themselves.

Walt Disney World, Orlando

For those RN’s who want to let their inner kid out, welcome to the magical world of Disney, aka the happiest place on Earth. It’s composed of four different parks, so there is something for everyone. Magic Kingdom is the heart of Disney and has almost all the characters shown in Disney movies and has multiple rides. Epcot is where you’re able to experience a bit of the world in a day. 11 different nations are featured in this park so that visitors can learn and experience the culture of each place. Animal Kingdom features nature, animals, and pre-historic life with attractions and simulations. Hollywood Studios is that last park, and when you walk in, it feels as if you are on the set of different movies depending on where you are. In addition, every night, each park has its own firework show! A great option for a sunshine state city to take an assignment.

Wynwood, Miami

Wynwood is one of those places that someone has to visit while being in Miami. It’s known as the art or fashion district, so art covers most of the walls and is also scattered on the sidewalks. Street artists worldwide come down and create their masterpiece, which is influenced by all different types of cultures. There are art galleries, bars, unique restaurants, and one-of-a-kind boutiques seated in the area.

City Place, West Palm Beach

City Place is a hangout area where individuals and families eat at various restaurants and shops. For those who don’t want to have a whole dining experience, City Place has some places where you can grab a snack and relax. Also, there’s a large movie theater located in City Place. If you’re not really in the mood for a movie, there’s a not-for-profit art center that’s walking distance from City Place. There is a schedule on the Kravis Center website that shows what will be going on, on certain days. Some of the showings include ballets, concerts, plays, and orchestras.

Flea Masters Fleamarket, Fort Myers

For those who want to spend some time finding unique treasures, the Flea Masters Fleamarket is open Friday to Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM. It’s an indoor and outdoor market where you’re able to buy almost anything, eat, and drink. Also, on certain days there’s some live music.

Riverside Arts Market, Jacksonville

The Riverside Arts Market is open every Saturday from 10 AM to 3 PM with a selection of fresh produce and one-of-a-kind pieces. Each purchase allows you to support local small businesses and individuals! In certain months you’re able to participate in morning yoga or take a bike ride.

Busch Gardens, Tampa

For the adventurous ones out there, Busch Gardens is a must. Visitors can see different animals, go on a safari tour and ride some thrilling roller coasters. There are different dining options and shows available for those who still want to experience an amusement park without the adrenaline-filled rides. It’s a place for all ages to enjoy!

These are a few things that you should check out and do while you’re in the sunshine state! Hopefully, you can visit a place or two and even make your own discoveries. For more information on Travel Nurse jobs in the sunshine state (Florida), check out the job page on The Gypsy Nurse.

By The Gypsy Nurse

September 23, 2018

10572 Views

Where Will You Go? Locations That are Great for Travel Nurses

Posted on September 23, 2018December 27, 2023 by The Gypsy Nurse

The research is in!

Recent research from WalletHub took a close look at the nursing industry across the United States. Some of these parameters are exactly what we look for when searching for locations that are great for travel nurses. The research information sheds light on the current employment environment. This information could be useful for your journey as a travel nurse.

Two key dimensions were examined using 14 relevant metrics.

— Opportunity & Competition

— Work Environment

The Top 5 in several categories are:

Most Nursing Job Openings per Capita

More nursing jobs means locations that are great for travel nurses to start looking.

District of Columbia
New Mexico
New Hampshire
Massachusetts
Alaska

Highest Annual Nursing Salary (Adjusted for Cost of Living)

It’s important to note that just because a location has a high annual salary, it’s not necessarily translated to locations that are great for travel nurses. Sometimes the travel pay isn’t commiserate with the staff pay.

Nevada
Wyoming
Idaho
Michigan
Texas

Most Healthcare Facilities per Capita

Wherever there are a lot of healthcare facilities, there are bound to be nursing shortages and thus, locations that are great for travel nurses.

Oregon
Maine
Minnesota
South Dakota
Iowa

Top 5 Nurse-Friendly Hospitals

More research from Top RN to BSN, lists the most nurse-friendly hospitals in the United States. Who wouldn’t rate a location with one of these top 5 nurse-friendly hospitals as a great location for travel nurses!

Winners of the top 5 spots are:

Schneck Medical Center – Seymour, Indiana
Johns Hopkins Hospital – Baltimore, Maryland
Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital Of Chicago – Chicago, Illinois
Baptist Medical Center – Jacksonville, Florida
West Virginia University Hospitals – Morgantown, West Virginia

Other Considerations

Reports also note that travel nurses frequently request assignments in places where many people want to vacation. Hawaii, New York City, California, Florida, Alaska, and Las Vegas are popular picks. Therefore, it’s the opportunities for time spent outside of work that makes these areas especially attractive.

Above all, when you contact your agency, talk honestly about what you are looking for in an assignment. Therefore, let your recruiter know what activities you enjoy. Clarity in your needs will only help the travel nurse agency find you the right contract. Be upfront about the types of places you would like to go.

Most importantly, it’s essential to understand the licensing requirements of different states. What are the costs to obtain necessary licensing and who will cover those expenses? The lead-time to start an assignment is also important. You will need adequate time to give notice to any current position. As you evaluate options, be careful not to assess only the salary. While some areas offer an above average salary, the cost of living can be very high and quickly offset any gains in your paycheck.

Are you looking for a travel nurse job at one of these locations? Did you know that you can search our Job Listings for specific hospitals, cities, and by specialty?

Check it out and find your perfect travel nurse contract today!

By cheryl hurt

September 11, 2018

18613 Views

So, You Want to go to Nome Alaska?

Posted on September 11, 2018January 26, 2023 by cheryl hurt

Guest Post By: Cheryl Hurt, co-written by: Kimberly Richter

Being an Alaskan travel nurse is an exciting and unique experience. Here are some tips from travelers that are or have been to Nome. These tips will help you prepare and know what to expect on a contract in Nome, Alaska.

Orientation

Hospital orientation is generally four days long. The first two days are focused on standard hospital business and Native Alaskan Culture. Day 1 your badge photo and fingerprinting will be done.(yes, you will have your fingerprints taken at the hospital) Lunch will be provided for you.

Day 2, you will visit the cultural center in the afternoon and have the opportunity to try Eskimo salad (something that you really should try) or Seal.

Day 3 Healthstreams (Yikes, there are 44). Dress for days 1 and 2 are business casual. Days 3 and 4 are scrubs. This is only a guide and not set in stone as each department has its own schedule.

Tips and Suggestions:

Housing Tips

Nome is a very walkable town. Plan to walk!
Cabs are available for $4 one way in town. (the town is not big!)
Housing is corporate female shared housing or Male Shared housing, No Co-ed, so plan on being a great roommate and respect each other.

Shipping and Mailing Tips

Ship as much as possible in flat-rate shipping boxes that you can get from the post office. You will ship them to:

(your name)
113 W. Front Street
Nome, Alaska 99762-9800
(This is general delivery at the post office)

When shipping items, remember the postal service is not gentle with packages. Pack accordingly.
There is a waiting list for P.O. Boxes. If anyone is going to ship items to you, use the address above and have them notify you when items have been shipped.
Remember, if you are landing on a Saturday or Sunday, the post office is only open M-F from 0900 – 1700. Make sure you have the essentials for the first few days.

Supplies / Food / Etc.

Food is expensive; gluten-free is even more expensive. There are only two grocery stores; Hanson’s and ACs.
Meal prepping is essential. The food here is expensive (12 oz. bag of fresh green beans is 4.99, Bananas are 1.29/lb., Strawberries/Blueberries 6.00-10.00). This also reduces wasted food. In words given to me, “suck it up and forget about the price tags.”
Restaurants are expensive. There are only a few. I highly recommend the Gold Dust Saloon at the Nugget Inn. The food and drinks are delicious. They serve sushi (and more) and have trivia on Thursday nights at 1900. The Polar Cafe is another great choice. They have a great breakfast.
Paper towels, toilet paper, spices, aluminum foil, zip-lock storage containers, and zip lock bags, etc., are expensive as well. Ship as many of these items as possible. (The items I shipped were items that I knew I would use and not have to ship back home at the end of my contract).
Ship teas/coffee; these too are expensive. Along with your favorite water bottle, tea/coffee cup.
Amazon Prime will be your best friend for toilet paper, paper towels, and non-perishable food pantry items. OR for anything, you have forgotten at home.
Reusable grocery bags are essential. This will keep you from buying more than you can carry while walking unless you want to pay for a taxi which is $4 one way in town.
There are no “Dollar Stores” in Nome.

Packing

Mud Boots (i.e., Bogs, Muck Boots, Extra Tough Boots) are also a must in Alaska. There is only approximately 1 mile of paved roads; all other roads are dirt/gravel. There is a lot of mud when it rains, and you can walk in the surf (my favorite part).
Bathing suit for the Suana, which is located in the Rec center.
Sunglasses: Lots of sun into the wee hours of the night and back up in the wee hours of the morning. (It does not get dark during Spring and summer)
A good raincoat. Why? It rains, and you will inevitably be walking in the rain. We walk here regardless of the weather.
Ear Band, Gloves, Hat, Scarf. It still gets cold even in June. Not to mention the wind and rain. You will want to go outside, explore and enjoy the pristine beauty of Alaska and stay warm doing it.
A good knife (particularly a pocket knife or survival knife for cutting things.)
Lunch Bag — Obvious reasons. The cafeteria is tiny with limited hours. Restaurants do delivery; however, they charge at least 8.00 as your food is delivered by taxi.
Ship or pack vitamins, medications, and supplements-you most likely will not be able to find them here, and if you do, they will be expensive. The exception to this is some over-the-counter medications and vitamins are available at the hospital pharmacy, and they are cheap (i.e., a Bottle of Tylenol 2.00).
Chargers for phone, tablet, laptop. Also, make sure that if you are bringing electronics, you put them in your carry-on. Airlines are not gentle by any means with luggage.
House Shoes – floors get sandy/muddy.
Bath towel, hand towel, and washcloth. They should be provided, but just in case.
A notebook – Sometimes, you just want to write/journal.
A good book – There is a beautiful library. It is located at the cultural center.
Bring clothes you can layer. Some days it actually does get warm, and most structures (houses, apartments, restaurants, hospitals, etc. are kept warm).

Other

Wells Fargo bank is here and a local credit union.
Money-Cash is nice to have, especially if you have to take a cab (they do not accept credit/debit cards). I brought 50.00 in singles. Everywhere else accepts credit/debit cards. ATMs are available.
Make sure to notify banks of your travel. The worst thing that could happen is they block/lock your card because they thought someone had stolen them. Contact your credit card companies as well. They usually do not block/lock cards without notification unless you are leaving the country.
Check with the wireless service providers to see if they have service coverage in Nome. GCI is the provider here in Nome, but it is expensive. Trac Phones are available, and I’m told that they get good service. I have Verizon, and I have had ok service so far. (Turn your phone off and then turn it back on when you get to Nome.)
Nome is Rural! You cannot drive to Nome as there are no roads that lead to Nome. 2 roads go about 50 miles out east and west. Fly in and Fly out!
You can rent a car, but it’s very pricey, like 175.00-200.00 per DAY.
There is a movie theater in Nome, Sundays at 4 pm are $9.00 (it’s in the Subway.)
You have to have a fishing license to fish in Nome, Alaska. I think they said it is $150.00/175.00 for the season for nonresident/non-Native.
Animals- Musk-ox, Moose, Bears, Reindeer, Eagles, Huge Ravens. Polar bears are rare in Nome. We have found a baby seal on the beach. You might see Beluga whales passing thru, but with the position of Nome, it’s Rare, they say.
Do Not bring a firearm as they are NOT allowed in Corporate housing.

Things that others have shipped OR put in an extra suitcase and paid for the extra baggage:

(believe us, it’s worth the extra fee!)

Spices/Salt and Pepper
Oatmeal
Shampoo/Conditioner
Body Soap/Lotion
Razors/Shaving Lotion
Qtips/Dental flossers
Dish Soap
Hand Soap
Laundry Detergent/Fabric Softener
Toilet Paper/Paper Towels
Crackers Cereal
Feminine items
Hot Sauce/Condiments
Canned Tuna
Canned Chicken
Protein Powder
Dry packaged food
Zip-Lock Storage Container/Bags of various sizes.

***Tips- Place plastic wrap under lids of liquids to keep from spilling. If you have a Food Saver, seal liquid containers. If not possible, place liquid containers in Zip-Lock bags.

Did I mention you will be walking everywhere?

Most importantly…

Bring an open mind. When you are flying into Alaska take in the beauty of this land from the sky. It is gorgeous! But wait until you land; then it becomes breathtaking!

Directions for once you have landed:

At the first opportunity, stop and take it all in. “Shut your mouth (sorry, be quiet), close your eyes, take a deep breath and let it take hold of you. Listen to the sounds, feel the warmth of the sun, the gentle breeze of your skin, smell the world coming to life around you and taste the saltiness in the air. Take a deep breath and open your eyes-she “Mother Nature” has never been more beautiful.”

Alaska will change your life if you let it.

Words cannot describe the majestic beauty of this land/sea. The culture and the history are intriguing. The unspoiled and untouched lands are home to some of the most beautiful animals.
Finally, you will have arrived in one of the most amazing places on earth. Keep an Open mind and enjoy Nome. But be careful. A lot that lives here was once travelers and fell in Love with Nome. There is No Place like Nome!

P.S. Don’t forget scrubs, stethoscope, trauma shears, a watch etc. as you will be expected to work a little.

By The Gypsy Nurse

September 5, 2018

7180 Views

Best Road Trip Stops from LA to Seattle

Posted on September 5, 2018May 20, 2021 by The Gypsy Nurse

So it’s that time again; your next adventure awaits! We saw some of you lovely people reaching out for the best road trip stops from LA to Seattle and based on your responses we made you a quick little cheat sheet! Here’s a list of the best attractions, nature and grub for your next 13 week adventure on the West Coast.

Redwood National Park-

There’s just not many things that can make you feel as small on this big planet then standing next to a mammoth tree in California’s Redwood forests. This park for instance is home to tallest of all the redwood trees. For the Instagram savvy, you may want to stop at the Drive-Thru Park and pay $5 to drive through one and get to snap a quick picture to prove it!

Cannon Beach –

Cannon Beach is truly like a dream come true. Celebrated as one of America’s 10 most beautiful towns on the West Coast, there’s a little something to captivate everyone. Personally, I like exploring and taking in the sights, so Haystack Rock would be a must for me to enjoy the landscape, the areas Tufted Puffins and the beautiful marine life in the tide pools. For those more adventurous, you should check out the zip-line tours, surf classes or even a helicopter ride!

Yosemite –

Found in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, Yosemite and it’s indescribable beauty is on most adventurers bucket list. It’s best known for it’s breathtaking waterfalls, but has nearly 1,200 square feet of landscape to roam and explore. Camping sites are available for tents, as well as RV’s, if have a few days to unwind and enjoy in the great outdoors.

Crater lake-

With it’s crystal clear and nearly pristine fresh water, Crater Lake is a must-see for those traveling through Oregon’s,Cascade Mountain Range. This beauty was created nearly 7,700 thousand years ago from volcanic eruption that caused a mountain peak to collapse. The water gets it fascinating beauty from rain and snow, and is the deepest lake in the United States!

Monterey –

Roll down Highway 1 and take in all that Monterey has to offer. Like the rest of these sites, there is so much beauty in nature that it’s hard to make a short list! Some of the top attractions are famous Bixby Bridge on the way to Big Sur, hang-gliding above Marina State Beach and diving deep with the scuba team at Seven Seas Scuba. If you’re lucky enough to travel with your significant other, you have to check out Lover’s Point in Pacific Grove.

Do you have any other suggestions? Places I’m crazy to have not mentioned? Drop a comment below and let us know! We love hearing about your experiences so we can share them with our growing gypsy community!

By The Gypsy Nurse

August 8, 2018

41610 Views

Step #3: Where and When Are You Willing to Go

Posted on August 8, 2018July 24, 2023 by The Gypsy Nurse

Where to Start Travel Nursing?

Sometimes this is the most intimidating question. Some travelers are completely open to location and willing to go wherever there is a need. Others want a specific location for a variety of reasons. There is no right or wrong place to start travel nursing.

Know your Restrictions

If you have some restrictions on where you can work as a travel nurse, or a specific timeline, you have a little planning to do. Keep in mind that for your first assignment, you might have to be a little more flexible. Being open to locations will make it easier to find your first contract.

Weather Factors

Do you want to avoid extreme weather? That would mean no Minnesota in the wintertime. Many travel nurses will follow ‘summer’ and will not accept a wintry destination. On the flip side, others love winter sports and will choose locations that provide the maximum possibility of enjoying them. If you aren’t sure where to start travel nursing, a winter contract in a colder state will be sure to have higher rates and openings!

Licensing

Now that the nursing compact is much larger, a lot of nurses have more options on where they can start travel nursing. If your home state is not compact, you will need to take that into consideration when you are planning where you will work as a travel nurse.

Family

Another consideration might be family. If you are a non traditional travel nurse and travel with kids or have kids at home, where you can work as a travel nurse might be more limited. Once again, remember that your first compact might not be quite as close to family as you would prefer, but most of the time you can get within several hours of anywhere you need to be.

Facility

The type of hospital may also play a factor. Will you work for a rural hospital? How about a teaching facility? Is Magnet status a factor? Do you prefer a Level II Trauma hospital? Depending on your experience, it might be more or less scary to start travel nursing at a certain type of facility.

Amenities

Perhaps you have an ailing family member and want to be close to a major airport if a family emergency arises. Will you be unhappy if you’re in a small town and don’t have a major shopping mall? Does small town living drive you to madness? Cities make you dizzy and disoriented? Only you know where you are comfortable.

Always try to keep an open mind! You might not check all of your boxes, but every assignment is a new experience, and somewhere you didn’t think you would love might surprise you.

Have you joined our Travel Nurse Community? Follow the link and join today for even more travel nurse tips and advice.

You can return to the the introduction, or move forward or back using the article links below.

By The Gypsy Nurse

August 3, 2018

6871 Views

10 Spots To Get Back To Nature In Oklahoma City

Posted on August 3, 2018May 20, 2021 by The Gypsy Nurse

This is a guest post by Sarah Miller

As a travel nurse, you likely spend most of your day worrying about the well-being of others. Being on the road and on your feet for a majority of the day can certainly take its toll on your own mental and physical well-being. Now, if you’ve already had the opportunity to explore Oklahoma City, you’ll know it is a big friendly city full of garage sale fanatics, outstanding comfort food, and home of the Oklahoma City Thunder Basketball team.

Aside from the hustle and bustle of any city though, are nature’s wonders. When your work environment is exhausting and stressful–take a break from it all by relaxing in one of these stunning natural spots in Oklahoma City.

Myriad Botanical Gardens

These botanical gardens are some of the city’s most beloved public areas, offering over fifteen acres of natural space to unwind. The park is home to a children’s garden, off-leash dog park, and several splash fountains. The gardens also feature dozens of walking and jogging paths and even offer educational programs and workshops to help you fully engage in the diverse ecosystem you are surrounded by. With so much to explore, it’s easy to get lost in this urban oasis.

Martin Park Nature Center

This nature center advertises itself as “more than just a park,” and if you’re looking for a place to unwind, that statement couldn’t be closer to the truth. This serene location offers an interactive learning center and quiet woodland trails spanning over two and a half miles. The park also features a visitor center with live animals and an ADA accessible trail.

Will Rogers Gardens

The Will Rogers Gardens offers several themed walking areas, including the Will Rogers Garden exhibition Center, the Margaret Annis Boys Arboretum, and the Charles E. Sparks Color Garden. You’ll unwind by traversing around one of the parks’ many walkways, enjoying rose gardens and beautifully cultivated landscaping features. This city park offers hands-on gardening exhibitions and horticultural classes, allowing you to learn and kick back at the same time.

Earlywine Park

Earlywine Park, encompassing nearly one hundred acres, offers a more active spin on outdoor recreation, offering visitors tennis courts, an aquatic center, and a golf course. Of course, the park is also home to multiple walking and running trails, allowing you to choose between a group or solo relaxation adventure.

Lake Hefner

This reservoir lake is a great place to spend a day, it is a popular spot for sailing and fishing, but is also a great place to take a deep breath. The lake features a lighthouse, and offers scenic trails that are well maintained and provide a spot for deep relaxation.

Crystal Bridge

Crystal Bridge offers an outdoor experience just outside of the ordinary. This cylindrical greenhouse is home to dozens of waterfalls, along with over seven hundred different types of plants. You can traverse this greenhouse on elevated walkways, and we guarantee that just one look at the expansive greenery in this center will make you feel more tranquil almost immediately.

Arcadia Lake

Arcadia Lake is a man-made lake and is a haven for water sports enthusiasts and anglers alike. That being said, this spot offers a leisurely retreat for hikers, bikers, and swimmers as well. If you’re looking for an outdoor retreat that will allow you to get up close and personal with some of Oklahoma’s wildlife, this is the place to go.

Mitch Park

Mitch Park is well within the city limits, but you’d hardly know it by the relaxing experience it provides. This 280-acre park features paved trails and other recreational options, like a skate park and playground, so that you can get away from it all without having to travel far.

Stinchcomb Wildlife Refuge

Another great spot to observe wildlife, this refuge is a haven for native flora and fauna. It also offers some excellent forest areas for hiking, bird watching, and kayaking, allowing you to enjoy the area’s native environment without having to drive for hours outside of the city.

South Lakes Park

This park spans over 150 acres and offers numerous amenities to the forever stressed population of Oklahoma City. Visitors enjoy soccer fields, walking trails, and fishing ponds, all within the comfort of the Oklahoma City limits.

It can be tough to find time to relax and unwind with your busy schedule. However, by taking a moment to breathe deep in one of these outdoor spots in Oklahoma City, you’ll likely find yourself more energized, invigorated, and ready to return to your important career.

Sarah Miller is a writer, self-claimed nutritionist, and CrossFit junkie. She spends most of her time meal prepping and actively trying to beat personal records in the gym, but always enjoys a meditative walk through a nearby woodland area or near a lake.

By The Gypsy Nurse

July 7, 2018

9490 Views

Top 5 Can’t-Miss Sites in Boston

Posted on July 7, 2018May 20, 2021 by The Gypsy Nurse

Your travel nurse stint in Beantown

Boston has a curious beginning to the affectionate nickname “Beantown.” Stories date back to the early Pilgrims and Puritans of Massachusetts also strictly observed the Sabbath and did not work or even cook hot meals on Sundays. They would bake beans on Saturdays in a bean pot and leave them in the hot brick ovens overnight. The recipe evolved to include molasses and pork into the modern Boston Baked Bean dish. And while not all locals have been fans of the label over the years, it is undeniably part of Bostonian culture.

There are many things to see and do in this history-rich New England City; here are the top 5 can’t miss sites that you can enjoy while a travel nurse in Massachusetts:

The Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum:

Don’t miss this multi-sensory experience where actors take you back in time. Meet the colonists, explore the ships, and dump tea overboard just as the Sons of Liberty did on that fateful night of December 16, 1773. Tours are designed for all ages, to learn about the people and events that led up to the American Revolution.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace:

Located in downtown Boston, steps away from the waterfront, you can enjoy 100+ stores, artisan pushcarts, restaurants, and pubs right on Boston’s famed Freedom Trail. Faneuil Hall Marketplace is actually comprised of three long buildings called North Market, South Market, and Quincy Market. Built in 1742, the grasshopper weathervane placed atop the building that same year is the only totally unmodified part of the structure. On the third floor, you’ll find the museum and armory of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company of Massachusetts.

Boston Duck Tours:

This is a uniquely exciting way to see many of the sites throughout Boston. Climb aboard an authentic, renovated World War II amphibious landing vehicle. This guided tour includes many notable spots and many neighborhoods then you’ll splash into the Charles River for a remarkable view of the Boston and Cambridge skylines.

The Freedom Trail:

Take a walk through history on this 2.5-mile, red-lined route that leads you to 16 historically significant sites. You’ll explore museums, meetinghouses, churches, burying grounds parks, a ship, and historic markers that tell the story of the American Revolution.

Whale Watch:

All aboard Boston’s custom whale watch catamarans that are among the largest and fastest in the country. Each trip carries up to 400 passengers with incredible stability and feature three outside viewing decks. There’s also a climate-controlled interior cabin with seating and a snack bar. The cruise goes to Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary, a rich feeding ground for local whales. Viewers can enjoy several different species of large whales, including humpbacks, finbacks, minkes, pilot whales, and the critically endangered right whales.

All of these attractions have something special to offer visitors. Be sure your travel nurse assignment includes some downtime and take in the city of Boston. Special events, hours, and fees vary so please check websites or call to ensure your trip goes as planned.

Day Tripping for the San Diego Travel Nurse

Kendall Frost Marsh and Northern Wildlife Preserve

Beaches

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