Starting a new healthcare travel assignment is exciting. Not only do you have the chance to develop new skills, but you also get to experience a new city. Traveling and living somewhere different may be one of the best perks of working as a healthcare traveler.
Although living somewhere unfamiliar can be fun, it’s helpful to have a plan. Below are several suggestions to enjoy your new city during your travel assignment.
Attend Your Hospital Orientation
Hospital orientations are offered to new employees. As a healthcare traveler, if you are offered a hospital orientation, be sure to attend. Along with an introduction to your facility, information on the area is also often presented. You might be surprised at how much information you can find.
Get Suggestions from the Locals
Co-workers and neighbors are a great resource to ask questions about the area. Ask about must-see attractions, good restaurants, and unique events. You may get ideas that are not on websites or in the tour books. Plus, it’s a good conversation starter when you are meeting new people.
Keep an Open Mind
Working as a healthcare traveler can be an adventure, but it’s important to go into your new city with an open mind. Even if you think something is not your cup of tea, you may be surprised. For example, if you’re not an outdoorsy person, but friends suggest a day of hiking, give it a try.
Do Your Research
Fortunately, information on what to do in a new city is at your fingertips. All types of information can be found online. Check out the tourism site in the city you’ll be working. Also, there are several sites, such as TripAdvisor and Yelp where you can get ideas and reviews on everything from the best beaches to where to get great food.
Use Social Media to Your Advantage
Use social media to find all types of things to do. You can often find get-togethers, activities, and classes on Meet Up. Facebook Pages for cities and neighborhoods is also a good resource for information about your new city. Search Twitter and Instagram by your city’s hashtag to find events or fun things to do.
Find Discounts
You don’t have to go broke to enjoy your new city. Look for discounts to attractions, restaurants, and classes on websites, such as Living Social and Groupon. There are also lesser known sites, such as BlackboardEats, which has restaurant coupons and deals in cities around the country.
Download an App
There is an app for almost everything these days, and that includes exploring a new city. Apps are available for bicyclists, runners, and walkers to find the safest routes, trails, and walks. You can also download apps to find places off the beaten path and recommendations for a variety of services voted on by locals.
One of the most exciting things about working as a healthcare traveler is seeing new places. Do you have any tips for getting the most out of your new city?