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!

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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.

15 ways to save, stat!

Chances are your travel nurse assignment has you away from loved ones and family. And with the holiday season approaching, you may be looking for ways to get home. So we’ve scoured the Internet for the best advice on how you can save on your air travel. These tips are so good; you can use them at any time. Happy flying!

1. Avoid Peak Season-

For example, you can check out majors school vacation holidays and big events and make sure that you are going before or after these events will help with crowding and cost

2. Fly Indirect-

It might take a little longer but if you have the time, getting connecting flights can be fun and could save you a lot of cash

3. Mix and Match Flights-

Sometimes flying out on one carrier and your return flight on another can be cheaper

4. Avoid Baggage Fees–

Max out the size of the bag that is included in your ticket if one exists, then max out your carry on, and if you still need more room to consider shipping things ahead the most economical way, like ground

5. BYOS-

Bring your own snacks to avoid the high cost of a la cart airplane food and beverages

6. Save on Travel Insurance-

Take advantage of discounts when you insure more than one flight rather than getting insurance for a single trip

7. Go the Extra Mile-

Travel from an airport where fees are less expensive even if it is a bit further from your home or work

8. Reserve Parking in Advance-

Pre-booking airport parking usually is discounted compared to same day rates

9. Book Smarter-

Airlines tend to release new fares mid-week, so consider booking on a Tuesday or Wednesday to see if any sales pop up

10. Low Price Guarantee-

Some U.S. airlines have guaranteed airfare policies that enable you to claim a refund for the difference if the price of your flight becomes available for less after you book it

11. Pick a Good Day-

Flying on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Saturday will often get you the lowest airfare within the U.S. because fewer people want to travel on these days

12. Comparison Shop-

Websites such as Expedia, Skyscanner, Orbitz, and Travelocity compile data from numerous airlines quickly and offer various scenarios for travel

13. Try a Travel Agent-

There’s no risk of checking with a local travel agent to see if they can beat your lowest price

14. Use Reward Points-

Chances are you have accumulated points from credit cards or your banking activities, just check the restrictions

15. Book in Advance-

Most airlines start to hike up rates when you book within 14 days of travel

Have any good ideas for us? Let us know! Comment below or send us a message with your top tips for saving when you fly!

Lake Tahoe, California

Boston, Massachusetts

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

New Orleans, Louisiana

Chicago, Illinois

Check out our travel nurse jobs!

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1. Keep Yourself Hydrated

2. Carry a Bottle of Eye Drops

3. Use an Eye Mask

4. Switch to Glasses

5. Switch Off Air Conditioning

6. Give Those Eyes Some Rest

7. Blinking Exercises

Who Can Get Dry Eyes?

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15 ways to save, stat!

1. Avoid Peak Season-

2. Fly Indirect-

3. Mix and Match Flights-

4. Avoid Baggage Fees–

5. BYOS-

6. Save on Travel Insurance-

7. Go the Extra Mile-

8. Reserve Parking in Advance-

9. Book Smarter-

10. Low Price Guarantee-

11. Pick a Good Day-

12. Comparison Shop-

13. Try a Travel Agent-

14. Use Reward Points-

15. Book in Advance-

Related Posts

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