Travel Nurse Talk: Enjoying the Freedom and Traveling the World
We caught up with a few Liquid Agents travel nurses to discuss the benefits and challenges of this unique job. Travel nurse David Larsen reveals his favorite assignment location and how nursing fits into his lifestyle.
“Travel nursing was always my plan.”
I researched it before I was even in nursing school — I was drawn in by the freedom and flexibility.
I have been a travel nurse for four years now. I like being able to go all over the country. It’s interesting to see how different hospitals work. The pay is great, and I like the flexibility. Some of my favorite assignments were in Taos, New Mexico; Dallas, Texas; and Roanoke, Virginia, where I am again.
“Roanoke is probably the most travel-friendly place I’ve ever been.”
The staff here is really friendly, and the managers are understanding. In Roanoke, the surrounding areas are packed with things to do, and there’s a hospital that’s willing to work with travelers and treat them well. It’s a great combination. That’s why a lot of travel nurses like to come here.
“I spend my time off traveling around the world.”
If I were in a regular job, I wouldn’t have the opportunity to travel as much as I’d want. Every year, I would get just two weeks of vacation at most.
But in travel nursing, I can take time off whenever I want. I set up my assignments so I have the opportunity to travel all over the world. I like to take a month off. You just save up for it, work some overtime to cover your expenses. You get set, and then you go.
As soon as this contract is over, I’m going back to Tokyo for a month. I go there every year. It’s one of my favorite places.
“My recruiter at LiquidAgents is very supportive.”
Calvin and I talk at least every two weeks. I’ve had some rough assignments before and my recruiter and LiquidAgents came through for me. For example, when I felt I was in an unsafe working situation, LiquidAgents was really understanding and offered to pull me out of the contract. That’s rare.
I’ve tried other companies but none of them compare. When I call LiquidAgents, the representative is almost always available, and if they’re not, they call me back immediately. At other agencies, it can be difficult to talk to somebody. LiquidAgents is friendly, conscientious, and supportive.
Want to hear more about the life of a traveler? Check out our interview series.