As a travel nurse, the line between work and vacation tends to become a bit blurry. With the unique perk of picking exactly where you want to work, your next assignment could make for your best summer yet. Whether you want to beat the heat or soak up the sun, your next “work-cation” should be in one of these top 5 summer assignment spots.
1. San Diego, California
» Why it’s on the list: beaches, sea caves, and surfing
If your main goal for the next 13 weeks is to relax on the beach, then San Diego is your city. Known for it’s beautiful beaches and the best summer weather, switching out your swimsuit for scrubs will be a tough challenge. Spend your days off kayaking through the La Jolla Sea Cave, swimming with leopard sharks, and hanging ten at Imperial Beach. For land explorers, play any of San Diego’s 72 golf courses, tour the urban Balboa Park, or go dancing at The Tipsy Crow. Whether you spend the day by foot or surfboard, make sure to pack some sunscreen.
2. Anchorage, Alaska
» Why it’s on the list: glaciers, brown bears, and views
If you’re tired of the searing sun, running away to Anchorage, Alaska might be the best way to beat the heat. With the temperature being around 60 degrees, it’s the perfect summer for outside exploring. Take a glacier cruise to face off against towering icebergs, or participate in the Walk on the Wild Side tour, where you can see moose and brown bears up close and personal. For more interactive fun go summer dog sledding or dining at 4-star restaurants with beautiful patio views. With 22 hours of daylight, you’ll have plenty of time for every activity while here on assignment.
3. Denver, Colorado
» Why it’s on the list: whitewater rafting, murals, and pro sports teams
This city is the perfect vacation for anyone who loves the outdoors. From Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park being ranked as one of the best trips in the world, to Denver’s 5,000 acres of landscaped parks, you’ll hardly find yourself inside. On those perfect summer days spend your time fly fishing, white-water rafting, and exploring Washington Park with a four-legged (or two-legged) friend. And on those perfect summer evenings, enjoy the River North Art District’s nightlife or cheer on the Broncos in one of Denver’s many pubs.
4. Portland, Oregon
» Why it’s on the list: biking, food carts, and bookstores
Divided into 6 neighborhood quadrants, a 13 week assignment in Portland may not be long enough. From paddleboarding the Willamette River in the South to hiking mountain peaks in the North, it is the perfect city for the indecisive traveler. Spend your days snacking from food carts, biking around town (maybe even joining in on their 3-month-long bike festival), or curled up with a good novel at Powell’s City of Books. Whether you’re wanting to spend your summer in the water or in the clouds, Oregon has you covered.
5. Austin, Texas
» Why it’s on the list: music, boating, and underground springs
Spend your summer listening to live music in the live music capital of the world. Austin has over 250 live music venues ranging from classic rock to soulful blues. Learn how to two-step like a local at The White Horse dive bar, or grab food and drink at the outdoor music venue, The Far Out Lounge. Other outdoor activities include hiking along Lady Bird Lake with city skyline views, boating and paddleboarding on Lake Travis, and taking a refreshing dip in Barton Springs Pool. If you’re looking for a summer assignment filled with great music, great food, and great gulfs, you’ve found it.
Choose one of these top 5 summer assignments and take a 13 week long “work-cation.” Whether your ideal trip includes browsing bookstores or white water rafting, you’re sure to have the best time yet.
Find your next Summer Travel Assignment with Ethos Medical Staffing.
