As you began nursing school, who would’ve thought that your career could lead to you traveling all over the country, or even the world!
Traveling nursing has become an increasingly popular profession, especially among young nurses.
Gone are the days when you are committed to one hospital, clinic or practice. You now have the opportunity to stay in different cities, experience their culture, and practice your profession.
Where should you stay? Well in this article you will find the best places for travel nurses (see also ‘Can You Be A Travel Nurse In Your Own City?‘). From New York to Hawaii, you can discover where there is the best food, shopping malls, and attractions.
Read below to find out more!
What Is A Travel Nurse?
As the name suggests, travel nurses are nurses that travel all over the country. They will fill temporary positions in clinics, hospitals and other healthcare facilities in order to provide the best quality of care across the country.
These positions will often last between 8 to 26 weeks allowing the travel nurse to become fully immersed in the environment of the city they are staying.
Travel nurses are able to find posts abroad in other areas of the world.
These positions will typically last for a year or depending on what the individual clinic, hospital, or facility requires. It is common for travel nurses to commit to at least 2 years of employment if they are working in the Middle East.
Best Places For Travel Nurses
Below are the best places for travel nurses, including:
New York City, New York
The compensation is among the highest in the nation to begin with.
Before their finances collapse, travel nurses may find that a brief stopover in this city gives them enough time to experience a fast tour of the best restaurants, clubs, museums, shops, and sites in the globe.
Burbank, California
With a critical nursing shortage and some of the highest pay rates in the country, Burbank, California has a lot to offer travel nurses. Explore the beaches, restaurants, or simply go celebrity sightseeing on the streets of Hollywood.
If you can, make sure to get yourself a pair of tickets to one of the incredible talk shows. Take your pick from Ellen, Jimmy Kimmel, Dr.Phil or many more.
You can also visit the ‘Happiest Place On Earth’ in just a 30 minute drive.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Love the fast-paced life of casinos, bright lights, and constant action but don’t think you could handle it full time?
Then a placement in Las Vegas as a travel nurse will allow you to experience the wonders of Las Vegas in a short period of time.
With such a small pool of applicants, Vegas employers will be happy to see someone with experience!
San Francisco, California
San Francisco, known for its incredible seafood restaurants and of course the stunning Golden Gate Bridge.
However, the sky high rent and housing prices make this town too expensive to live in full time.
Take you time here to explore the history and culture of such a rich town, and you can even explore other places nearby. Napa Valley, Yosemite National Park, and California Redwoods should definitely be on your list.
Washington, D.C.
Discover the history, the arts, and the culture of our country’s capital, including the National Mall’s landmarks, The Smithsonian, the upmarket Georgetown boutiques, and Adams-amazing Morgan’s array of international restaurants and late-night entertainment.
Washington, D.C. is an excellent city to work if you love the idea of having a great work life balance.
Alaska
This mysterious state is one to be on the bucket list. With so many ways to interact with the wild life, climb mountains and over all see a new part of the world, Alaska is an excellent state to visit as a travel nurse (see also ‘Can LPN Be A Travel Nurse?‘).
As long as you bring a winter jacket and enjoy the cold.
Annapolis, Maryland
The city of Annapolis, also referred to as “mini-America,” is well-known for its historical sites and its location just a few hours from both the mountains and the seaside.
In this wonderful state, you might spend one weekend skiing and the next relaxing on the beach.
The possibility of working on a project at The Johns Hopkins Hospital, which is routinely voted the best hospital in the world, is an added plus.
Maui, Hawaii
Any municipality in Hawaii, along with New York City, is among the most expensive in America to live in, and competition for full-time or temporary job placements is tough, but the beauty is definitely worth it!
Explore the coves and beaches, learn to surf, or enjoy the relaxed life that is offered by the people of Hawaii.
Ethiopia
Ethiopia is one of the world’s oldest nations to exist and yet is known for its lack of healthcare.
With only 0.252 nurses for every 1000 people, this country is in desperate need of medical health care professionals.
However, it may take some time to get used to the slow internet connection. While you take a break from social media, take in the sites of breathtaking mountains and learn the rich history.
Japan
While Japan is one of the world’s leading technological inventors, it is extremely populated with an older generation. Meaning they are in need of more healthcare workers.
With incredible attractions, food, and culture to immerse yourself in, who wouldn’t love to live in Japan for a year or 2.
From incredible architecture to amazing theme parks, you will never be bored as you explore the world of Japan.
Final Thoughts
Whether you prefer the biting cold of Alaska or the technology of Japan, you can really explore the world as a travel nurse (see also ‘How Long Do Travel Nurses Stay In One Place?‘).
Practice what you love and see the world in a different way. No longer are you a vacationing tourist, you are a resident able to explore the city in a way you have never done before.
Travel nurses are in high demand to make sure to get out there, help those in need, and explore the world!