Though it seems hard to believe, winter travel nursing season is almost upon us! Have you given any thought to where you might be looking for your travel nurse assignment this winter? If you’re in need of some inspiration, read on!
For a holiday experience like no other, consider New York, New York.
There’s simply nowhere else that is comparable to the holiday season in New York City. The world-famous Rockefeller Center Christmas tree is one of the most iconic holiday attractions of all time. The tree arrived on November 13, but admirers can stop by to see it bedecked with lights during or after its lighting ceremony on December 1st. While you’re there, be sure to also lace up your skates at The Rink, or sample some delicious truffles from the neighboring Swiss chocolatier. Other December attractions include holiday shows like the Radio City Christmas Spectacular or the Nutcracker Ballet, as well as festive decorations, displays, and holiday markets as far as the eye can see. The city comes alive to enjoy the New Year, too, with massive turnout in Times Square to watch the ball drop at midnight and countless parties and celebrations across town.
If you love skiing or snowboarding, keep Colorado or Wyoming in mind.
When it comes to skiing and snowboarding, avid fans know: the West Coast crushes the East Coast. It has better conditions, larger mountains and resorts, greater variety of trails, and most importantly: so much more snow. Resorts like Breckenridge, Vail, Jackson Hole, and Beaver Creek are consistently voted amongst the top ski towns in the US. After hitting the slopes on your day off, enjoy a night out on the town- larger resorts like Aspen also sport thriving town centers with delicious dining opportunities and vibrant nightlife.
For the travel nurse who is also an avid hockey fan, consider Saint Paul, Minnesota.
Given its proximity to Canada, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that Minnesota is a land of hockey fans. As a result, the Xcel Energy Center, where the Minnesota Wild play, is renowned for its electric, fun-loving atmosphere. Furthermore, the team is currently leading the Central Division of the NHL with a record of 11-6-1, so you’ll be able to see some good games. Saint Paul is also home to other exciting seasonal attractions, like their weeklong Winter Carnival, which is famed for its beautiful, elaborate ice sculptures. When you want to unwind, you can show off your cute winter coats and hats while you peruse one of the many craft breweries Saint Paul has to offer, such as Flat Earth or Summit, or follow along with the Saint Paul Art Crawl. Warning: travel nurses interested in moving to Saint Paul must be prepared for cold days!
If you’re the kind of person who hates the cold, check out Charleston, South Carolina.
With an average temperature of about 60°F in December, Charleston will certainly help you to keep warm during winter months. Nestled in and among the stunning French architecture of the city are countless restaurants and stores. It’s impossible to feel cold while strolling amongst palmetto trees and touring the beautiful gardens that bloom year-round. Unwind at one of Charleston’s many spas, or take a romantic carriage ride tour of the city. Finally, ring in the New Year at Charleston’s hottest party- an outdoor nightclub experience that takes place entirely on the USS Yorktown!
If the holidays have you missing home, look for assignments close to your family or hometown.
Travel nursing seems so glamorous and independent that some people may forget it also offers you the mobility to work close to home when you want to. Whether you chose to become a travel nurse because you love to explore new places or because you’re interested in the competitive salary and career opportunities, at its core travel nursing always offers independence and freedom of choice. Consider taking advantage of that freedom by spending the winter months with family and old friends, at a hospital close to your hometown!
Did any of these suggestions pique your interest? Explore travel assignments in these locations and countless others on Wanderly today!