One of the best parts of being a travel nurse is the opportunity to explore new places, work with different teams, and experience unique aspects of each destination. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work in some incredible locations, each with its own charm and memorable experiences. Here are a few of my favorite assignments and why they left such a lasting impression on me.
Rockport, Maine: A Coastal Gem
My assignment in Rockport, Maine, was unforgettable for so many reasons. This 12-bed emergency room had a small but incredibly tight-knit team that made every shift a joy. From day one, I felt welcomed and supported, which is something every travel nurse hopes for in a new environment.
What I Loved:
- The Team: Everyone worked together seamlessly, and the camaraderie made even the busiest days manageable.
- The Location: Maine’s coastline is absolutely stunning. On my days off, I explored the rugged shores, quaint lighthouses, and charming seaside towns. Rockport’s peaceful atmosphere was a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of larger cities.
- The Community: Working in a smaller ER meant getting to know the community. The gratitude patients expressed made the job incredibly rewarding.
This assignment reminded me of the beauty of small-town nursing and the importance of a strong team dynamic.
Hendersonville, North Carolina: Apples, Wineries, and Mountains
Hendersonville, North Carolina, was another standout assignment that combined professional growth with personal enjoyment. Originally planned as a 13-week contract, I extended it by four weeks because I didn’t want to leave!
What I Loved:
- The Apple Festival: My time in Hendersonville coincided with the annual Apple Festival, a celebration of the region’s apple-growing heritage. The festival was vibrant, family-friendly, and a great way to connect with the local culture.
- Wineries and Mountains: On my days off, I explored North Carolina’s wineries and soaked in the breathtaking mountain views. The mix of outdoor adventures and leisurely wine tastings was the perfect balance.
- Work Environment: The hospital was supportive, with a mix of experienced staff and fellow travelers. It made adapting to the ER smooth and enjoyable.
Hendersonville felt like a home away from home, offering the perfect blend of work-life balance and cultural experiences.
Puyallup, Washington: Nature’s Paradise and Amazing Coworkers
My longest travel nurse assignment was in Puyallup, Washington, where I worked for 29 weeks. This extended contract gave me the chance to truly immerse myself in the area and form strong bonds with my coworkers.
What I Loved:
- The Coworkers: The team at the hospital was incredible. They were supportive, knowledgeable, and always willing to lend a hand. We often joked that we were like a little family.
- The Hospital System: The hospital system was well-organized and had excellent resources, which made delivering high-quality care so much easier.
- Exploring the Pacific Northwest: On my days off, I explored Olympic National Park, Mount Rainier National Park, and everything in between. From lush rainforests to towering peaks, the natural beauty of Washington is unmatched.
This assignment solidified my love for the Pacific Northwest and left me with lifelong memories of both my coworkers and the stunning landscapes.
Colorado Springs, Colorado: The Traveler’s Dream Assignment
Colorado Springs offered a unique assignment where I worked in a hospital system that allowed me to float between five different hospitals. This setup kept things interesting and gave me the chance to experience a variety of work environments.
What I Loved:
- Flexibility and Variety: Floating between hospitals kept me on my toes and allowed me to learn different workflows and meet a wide range of staff.
- The Scenery: Colorado Springs is surrounded by breathtaking views. On my off days, I went hiking and running, taking full advantage of the area’s outdoor recreation opportunities. The nearby Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak were particular highlights.
- The Work Culture: The staff across all the hospitals were welcoming, and the travel nurses were treated with respect and appreciation.
Colorado Springs perfectly combined professional opportunities with personal adventures, making it one of my favorite assignments.
What Made These Assignments So Memorable
While each location offered unique experiences, a few common threads made these assignments stand out:
- Strong Team Dynamics: Having supportive coworkers and a positive work culture made transitioning to a new environment much easier.
- Stunning Locations: Each destination offered incredible natural beauty or cultural experiences, allowing me to make the most of my time off.
- Work-Life Balance: From hiking in Colorado to exploring Maine’s coastline, I found plenty of ways to recharge and enjoy myself outside of work.
The Bottom Line
If these stories inspire you, the good news is that there are plenty of amazing travel nurse assignments out there. One of the best ways to find opportunities that align with your goals and interests is by working with a boutique travel staffing agency like Luminous Travel Staffing.
Travel nursing is about more than just a paycheck — it’s about exploring new places, building connections, and growing both personally and professionally. From Maine’s rocky shores to Washington’s majestic mountains, the opportunities are endless. So pack your bags and get ready to fall in love with your next adventure.
