How to Enjoy Your Off Time in Milwaukee
If your new assignment has brought you deep into the Midwest to Milwaukee, you may be wondering how you’re going to spend your time off (and survive the cold). While the answer to the latter is simple – lots of layers, warm blankets, working heating, and staying inside when the temps go negative – finding the best things to do on your nice-weather days off may still be a puzzle. Here are tips from a Milwaukee native on how to spend your day off in and around Milwaukee.
Enjoy brunch at Cafe Benelux
The name of this restaurant, derived from the combination of Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxemburg, is just the beginning of its coolness. In warm weather, there’s probably no better place to be than the Cafe Benelux rooftop dining area, bedecked in stunning decor and complete with 360 views of the historic Third Ward. Everything on the menu is a hit, but their burgers, French toast, chicken & waffles, and frites are all beloved and exceptional.
Stroll through the Third Ward
Speaking of Third Ward views, this neighborhood of Milwaukee is inarguably the best in the city, and perfect for a walk and window shopping on a warm day. Take a leisurely walk through the historic streets, take in the river views, stop in high-end shops and make some purchases if the mood strikes. And at some point, stroll some of the well-known RiverWalk and enjoy the various sights the city has to offer.
Grab a picnic lunch from the Public Market
One of the most delicious places in the city, the Milwaukee Public Market (once again located in the fantastic Third Ward) is a must-stop destination whenever you get hungry. The long building is packed with a huge variety of food vendors and mini-restaurants, including an Italian deli (everything they make is delish), Mexican bar and grill, olive oil peddler, produce stand, cheese shop, bakeries, a fish monger, and plenty more. Walk around every vendor first, then swing back to your favorites and pick up a variety of packable foods and drinks to take with you.
Bring your picnic lunch for a walk by the lake
On a sunny or warm day, the Milwaukee lakefront is absolutely the place to be. Much of the lakefront is adorned with a paved walking trail, so you can easily stroll for quite a while, watching sailboats and birds on the lake while you select the perfect spot to sit and relax with your picnic lunch. If you’re feeling more active, rent a bike or paddle boat (for the inland pond), have a run, or join a game of beach volleyball at one of the beaches. A cone from Northpoint Custard is also probably in order – it’s a Wisconsin staple, after all.
Enjoy art and beautiful architecture
While you’re already on the lakefront, stopping at an art museum is always a good bet. The Milwaukee Art Museum is a world-renowned building in itself, and even just stopping inside to see the views from the picturesque Calatrava is worth the time. But if you’re an art lover, be sure to explore the rest of the sprawling museum. If you prefer stunning European architecture and landscaping, Villa Terrace is a better art museum selection. Located just a ways up the lakefront (in a fantastic neighborhood to explore on foot), this breathtaking building is most known for its sweeping, massive back lawn, perfectly landscaped with countless flowers, plants, and a falling water feature.
Grab a burger and drink at SafeHouse
Undoubtedly Milwaukee’s coolest and quirkiest bar, this hole in the wall spot is actually a bit hard to find. The reason is simple–it was a genuine speakeasy during Prohibition, and still maintains the various quirks and secrets that came with that purpose. The entrance can be found in an alley off Front St., right along the river. In the entryway, a staff member will ask for the password–but don’t worry if you don’t know it; they’ll just make an embarrassing request for you to enter (think hula hooping or doing a little skit). Once inside, the place is a maze of fun surprises and things to see. Ask any bartender about the different features of the spy-themed building, enjoy some delicious cocktails and surprisingly good burgers, and be sure to use the secret exit on your way out.
Does Milwaukee sound like a place you’d like to explore? See available positions at Stability Healthcare and get a start on your next adventure!
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Best Cities for Travel Nurses to Check Out This Spring
Perhaps, the biggest perk of being a travel nurse is the flexibility to choose your schedule. Travel nurses get to explore the world while fulfilling their career and passion. If you’re looking for your spring assignments, why not pair your destination with the right city to visit during this season. Check out these top-ranking cities to visit during spring, and whether you’re going on an assignment or as personal leisure, you’re bound to enjoy these cities at their fullest potential.
1. Manhattan, New York
Let’s start with New York City. During spring, you get a quieter time in the city, with fewer people overall. Not to mention, the weather is divine, not too hot or too cold, just between the 50s and low 70s. Walk around the bloomed city and embrace spring at its finest by taking a stroll down Central Park.
Don’t miss the orchid show at the New York Botanical Garden, when thousands of orchids from around the world transform the garden into a majestic tropical jungle. In the subject of flowers, stop by the Macy’s flower show and see close to a million flowers perfectly laid out around the store.
Enjoy the weather and take a short trip to Conney Island and explore New York from a different point of view. Finally, take advantage of the multiple spring festivals, and art shows happening around the city for a complete cultural experience.
2. Breckenridge, Colorado
Known as one of the most charming small towns to visit in Colorado, this ski-season favorite is also a must-visit in spring. Not only will lodging be at its cheapest, but you’ll also get to enjoy the beautiful weather as you explore this town.
Don’t miss the Breck spring Beer Festival for a unique artisanal experience. And enjoy some music with the Bud Light Concert Series, usually happening throughout spring.
If you want to live a more adventurous vacation, consider X-country (Nordic skiing), a type of skiing in which the toe of the boot is fixed to the binding in a manner that allows the heel to rise off the ski. Spring-time is the best time of the year to practice this style.
3. Sedona, Arizona
Get ready for a vacation that will blow your mind. Explore the openness and serenity of Arizona and get lost in its trails and canyons. With over more than 100 hiking trails, there always something exciting to try around here. Spring-time is peak season in Arizona thanks to its gorgeous weather, so make sure to plan your stay.
For baseball fans, Arizona is also home to Spring Training practices and games, making it the perfect city to visit during this time of the year.
Overall, you can choose from hiking, horseback riding, or just basking in the amazingness these natural mountains have to offer. Ask around and get an extensive list of all the national parks worth visiting in the area — none will disappoint.
Finally, take some time to relax! Sedona is home to celebrity-worthy spas and retreat hotels. Unplug from everything and enjoy a well-deserved vacation at one of their famous boutique spas.
4. Washington, D.C.
While Washington is a city you can visit year-round, spring is mainly a beautiful season to do so. First of all, the entire town is covered by blossoming cherry trees all over that give this ethereal and magical background to a somewhat cold-looking city. Not to mention, the weather is divine during this time of the year, usually in the high 50s and low 70s.
While you’re there, give yourself a few days to stop by and visit the dozens of historic landmarks. Honestly, it might seem that everywhere you look, you’re staring at a bit piece of history. From the White House to the Capitol and every other museum in between, there are countless opportunities for you to get in touch with your cultural side while visiting Washington.
Before you leave, make sure to stop by Georgetown. This small but crowded area is a must-see while in Washington. Experience a more youthful vibe to the city and bask in the beautiful colorful-painted doors that line up the streets. Stop by a few local bars, and don’t forget to enjoy some shopping at some of the local boutiques.
Remember to reach out to Stability to see if we can help you schedule your assignments during spring at one of these must-visit cities. Make the most out of your role as a travel nurse by exploring the world at the same time.
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Travel Nursing as a Couple – How to Make It Work
The field of travel nursing is fascinating for many. However, when it comes to relationships, things can get a bit challenging. Travel nursing involves many months away from home, different working hours, and continually moving from one city to another. These are things that can put pressure on couples. If you’re determined to make travel nursing as a couple work for the both of you, keep reading.
When You’re a Travel Nursing Couple
In an ideal situation, you both are travel nurses, which means you both understand the perks link to the career, as well as the downsides. When you’re both travel nurses, it’s easier to navigate the system to make it work.
Finding Assignments
While challenging, you could try to find assignments that help you be closer together. In this case, it’s best to work with the same travel nursing agency, as they’ll be able to work with both of you in finding the right type of assignments.
However, you also want to be flexible about the arrangements. In a perfect world, you’ll both have the same shift. But, in most cases, you’ll have to be a bit more flexible on shift hours if you want to have a higher chance of finding the same hospital or city.
Finally, be open about your plan with the agency. Let them know that you’re interested in finding an opportunity alongside your partner. If you’re both excellent nurses, it will be to their advantage to hire you both. As always, be flexible about the options. Just finding a job in the same city should be enough to help you make it work.
Arranging the Housing
One of the perks of being a traveling nurse couple is that you get to save on housing. There are many options to choose from. Some travel nursing agencies, have housing options, and are more than happy to assist you in finding a home for your assignments.
One of you can accept the housing offered by the agency while the other accepts stipend housing. This is an excellent option if you share your income. If you don’t choose the house by the agency, you can still find a tax-free housing stipend and split the cost of the rent.
Again, if you’re working with the right agency and the right recruiter, arranging housing as a traveling nurse couple won’t be an issue.
When Only One of You Is a Travel Nurse
In the case that only one of your works as a travel nurse, things can get a bit more challenging. As you probably already know, travel nurses have very flexible schedules and living arrangements. Fitting a couple-situation into this scenario requires a compromise on both ends of the relationship to make it work.
Someone Has to Compromise
Thankfully, travel nurses have a fantastic salary, health benefits, and other perks through their employment. One could say it’s enough for the other partner to leave their job and choose to travel with their partner on their assignment. In this case, someone has to make a compromise and decide if that’s what they want to do.
The partner without the job can become the travel assistant of the relationship. While so many agencies work with travel nurses to make their assignments as smooth as possible, it’s nice to have someone you trust help with all the travel arrangements. They can be the travel support person, who takes control of some of the logistics involved with moving to a new city, working at a new place, and so on. Plus, this will also give them a sense of purpose in your assignments.
Look for Alternative Options
Thanks to the new gig-based economy, non-travel nurse partners can also be productive and generate income. With ride-sharing apps, delivery services, and other gig-based jobs available, they don’t have to rely on a specific employer location to have a job.
Talk with your partner and see if they’d be interested in taking on some of these jobs while you’re on assignment. Hopefully, your salary as a travel nurse covers both of your expenses, so whatever your partner gets through their gigs is an additional income you both could use.
While challenging, traveling nurse couples can still live a normal lifestyle and enjoy their relationship without compromising their career. Working with a trustworthy and flexible agency is the key to making it work. If you still have questions about becoming a travel nurse as a couple, contact our representatives. They are always available to help answer any of your questions.
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What To Do in Kansas City On Your Day Off
One of the most appealing aspects of traveling nursing is the ability to explore. Kansas City is a quaint, mid-sized city in the Midwest, with plenty of fun activities for your day off. If you find yourself in Kansas City for your position, here are some of the best activities, restaurants, and sights the city has to offer.
Brunch at Morning Day Café
Morning Day Café has quickly become a Kansas City-staple. Not only is its home in a unique setting – specifically a tricked out shipping container in the Iron District – but the restaurants’ food is colorful too! Besides a selection of breakfast classics like house-made muffins and pancakes, Morning Day Café has a variety of filling brunch and lunch entrées, like their rosemary biscuits with bacon gravy or their walnut pesto penne. If you’re thirsty, take advantage of their cocktail selection. Morning Day Café is suitable for meat-eaters, omnivores, and vegetarians alike.
Pick up fresh flowers at the Kansas City Farmers Market
Kansas City has one of the best farmers markets in the country. Not only is the city smackdab in the middle of farmer territory, resulting in tons of fresh produce, but it also hosts a variety of self-made artists, bakers, and gardeners. Every Saturday, hundreds of people meet at the City Market to open their own booths and to see what others are selling. Spruce up your housing by picking up some fresh flowers from one of the vendors, and grab some fresh-made goods to stock your pantry while you’re at it.
Sit down for a cup of coffee at Oddly Correct
Oddly Correct isn’t only the perfect coffee shop to get some caffeine before starting your morning shift, but it’s also a great place to relax on a day off! There are plenty of tables for you to sit at, and outlets in case you need to give your phone a quick charge. Their black coffee is fantastic, but if you want something a little sweet, taste one of their specialty lattes, like their bourbon vanilla latte or berry-infused mocha. Oddly Correct is a prime spot for their prime coffee drinks and pastries, but another benefit is that you’re supporting locals, and the earth, too. Oddly Correct has been recognized for providing their employees with higher-than-average pay, and the shop has recently started using glass instead of paper cups, making it more sustainable.
Cheer on the Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium
Football fan? Arrowhead Stadium is a hot-spot. Known for being one of the loudest stadiums in the country, Kansas City Chiefs fans take it to the next level. The team recently won the Superbowl (their first time in decades), and with young stars like Patrick Mahomes, they’re surely on the trajectory to continue being an excellent team. One of the best ways to fully get a feel of the Chiefs atmosphere is to rally up fellow traveling nurses and tailgate before the game.
Eat some BBQ at Jack Stack
Save some room for BBQ at Jack Stack. Jack Stack is a local Kansas City chain and known for their tender and flavorful meats. Bring this place up to anyone in the KC-area, and they’re sure to claim the fame as some of the best BBQ in the Midwest.
Take in the sights at Nelson-Atkins Museum
Nelson-Atkins Museum boasts more than 35,000 pieces of art, all meticulously taken care of. And, it’s all FREE for you to see! Besides its jaw-dropping collections, the museum has a sprawling campus, decorated with quirky sculptures (namely the Shuttlecock sculpture). Fun to go by yourself or in a group with other nurses, the Nelson-Atkins Museum can entertain you for a whole day. If you don’t want to commit to an all-day outing, check out whichever special exhibition they’re currently running.
Does Kansas City sound like a place you’d like to explore? See available positions at Stability Healthcare and get a start on your next adventure!
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The Ultimate Packing List for Travel Nurses
Once you’ve locked in your first travel nursing assignment and you’ve sorted out all of the details … it’s officially packing time! At first, this may seem like a daunting task that you’ll never be able to accomplish, but if you take it step by step you’ll have everything you need to hit the ground running.
To get started, we’ve broken up the packing list into 5 categories: must-haves, clothing, toiletries, home goods, and extras.
Must-Haves
These are the important things that you absolutely should not be without. While this may seem like common sense, it’s important to have these on your list so you don’t forget.
- Driver’s license / Passport
- Insurance cards
- Social security card
- Emergency contact list
Clothing
This is where it can get tricky with overpacking, so let’s start with the basics.
- Scrubs (or other uniform required by your facility)
- Jeans
- Leggings
- Long Sleeve Shirts
- T-Shirts
- Sweater
- Sweatshirt
- Sneakers
- A pair or two of fun shoes – sandals, heels, booties
- One dressy outfit
- Pajamas
- Undergarments
- Weather dependant: raincoat, winter coat, etc.
Depending on your personal routine or plans you have for your free time, you might want to add in work out clothes, hiking boots, swimwear, or any other activity-specific clothing.
Toiletries
Cutting back on the toiletries that you pack is a great way to save space when you are packing. Shampoo, conditioner, lotion, toothpaste, etc. are all things that can easily be purchased when you arrive at your final destination. You will want to bring along your make-up bag and any specialty items that you may not be able to find easily elsewhere.
Home Goods
Before you get started on this section of your packing list, now is a good time to check with your housing situation to find out what they will be providing. Below is a general guide of things that you’ll need to bring if they don’t already have them.
- Sheets, comforter/duvet, blankets
- Towels
- Minimal dishes and utensils
- Pot and pan
- Dishtowels
- Tea kettle/ Coffee maker
- Laundry basket
Extras
While you might be able to survive without these things, they sure are great to have. Remember that you’ll be having a totally new experience and making some incredible memories!
- Laptop + charger
- Headphones
- Camera
- A journal
- Any special items to make you feel at home
Packing a personal relic or two will make your new place feel more like home. Whether that be a special blanket or your favorite coffee mug, don’t feel silly for bringing it along – it will bring great comfort when you’re adjusting to a new place.
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Things to Do on the 4th of July for Travel Nurses
1. Working the Night Shift? Pack a Picnic
Many Travel Nurses work the night shift, so if you’re working the 4th then you may want to enjoy an early breakfast/brunch picnic.
Take all those adorable red, white, and blue recipes you made and celebrate with a picnic in the park.
2. Celebrate at Work
Just because you’re at work doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate the holiday! Donning a set of red, white, and blue scrubs brings a bit of the holiday into the hospital.
Celebrating doesn’t just mean going to barbecues. It can also mean adding a little levity to your workplace.
3. Celebrate on the Beach
If you’re lucky enough to have travel nurse assignment near or within driving distance of a beach,
pack up for a fun day in the sun. If you stay until the evening, expect to see fireworks.
4. Explore the local area for the best Firework Viewing Party
Local Newspaper apps and Facebook events can direct you to the cities some of the best local hangout areas for viewing parties.
5. Make new friends with fellow travel nurses!
Speaking of food, why not invite new colleagues to a summer cookout?
Common things bring people together and beyond it being the 4th of July, most other travel nurses are also looking for a small taste of home. Why not host a Travel Nurse Potluck and make new friends from your facility.
How You Can Make the Most of Each Assignment
You worked hard to earn your nursing credentials and get your career started. Now it’s time to put your credentials to work for you. As a travel nurse, you’ll have incredible opportunities to explore countless new places. A nursing job lasts far longer than a typical vacation, which means you can get to know each new city like a local.
Making the most out of each new destination is a process that begins before you travel there. Research your new home in advance and make a list of everything you’d like to do and see while you’re there. Perhaps you’d love to explore the nightlife or immerse yourself in the city’s cultural heritage, art scene, or natural wonders. Be ambitious with your plans; there’s plenty of time to do it all. And if you fall in love with the city and want to extend your stay, just ask about extending your contract. Another great thing about working with Stability is the company’s high rate of contract extensions.
Are You Ready to Start Your Exciting New Career?
Stability Healthcare is an industry leader in travel nursing, with excellent benefits, PTO, and competitive pay. Sign up today to become a traveler, and get instant access to thousands of open jobs. Our representatives look forward to helping you launch your new career in travel nursing.
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Looking for a Travel Nursing Job? Learn How Technology and Stability Healthcare Work Together
“I was checking the job board for Stability! I really like the transparency, I can see if it’s something I’m interested with the pay package. Super helpful!”
“The recruiter free jobs platform is great. I have control on my job search now and it’s comforting knowing the weekly rates are listed.”
Stability Healthcare’s recruiter-free job search allows you to have the freedom to view jobs and rates of your choice. Our unique platform brings technology and job placements together in an efficient and easy way, giving YOU the control and access to your career goals. As a travel nurse you are always adapting to new environments and Stability Healthcare creates the ability to have control of it all.
Tablets, smartphones, electronic medical records and other new technologies have permeated many nurses’ professional and personal lives. Without a doubt, the introduction of new technologies have brought considerable changes to a nurse’s day-to-day life, and it’s also changing the way job placements are handled. For example, charts are now easier to read and lab results can be available in real time, minimizing potential errors.
“Everything in our lives is made simple by technology; finding a travel nurse job should be no different.”
How Does Technology Help The Job Process?
- Easy Research- Stability’s recruiter-free search means you can view the jobs you want at the rates that you want. You’re given the opportunity to explore for new information that may not have been available before.
- Better Communication- stay connected with Stability Healthcare at your fingertips. Technology makes communicating with our team and your future placement more efficient!
- Instant Online Rates- two words: pay transparency. Who doesn’t love that?
- Faster Interviews- search for your job online, enter information on your profile, and select your ideal job, city and pay. These are all things that make your interview process quicker.
- Everything In One Place- have all your questions answered by visiting our FAQ page.
If you’re looking for a travel nurse agency, new housing or a new city for a new adventure, look no further than Stability. Technology doesn’t make or break a nurse, but it certainly helps put you in control.
While we can all acknowledge the advantages of using technology, it can sometimes be difficult to navigate. Stability has made it simple and easy. You’ll have more time for yourself as well as your family or current job. This is what we all live for, right? You’re using technology everyday, so why not use it while comparing your next nursing placement?
As a travel nurse you are used to adapting to new environments, cities and processes. Technology is the same way. It’s always progressing and evolving. From finding friends to finding a new food spot or hiking place- there’s an app for everything these days. Let technology be useful in your professional life not just your personal life.
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