As a traveling healthcare professional, separation from family and friends, new surroundings, and unfamiliar local traditions come with the territory of the profession. But around the holidays, this unique experience can leave you feeling extra homesick and seeking a way to feel connected to this holiday season.

Here are our top 5 tips for celebrating the holidays away from home.

Bring Your Traditions Along For The Ride

Traditions are part of what makes the holidays so special. Activities, recipes, and decorations that are passed down help us to remember our loved ones and remind us of what’s truly important.

Collect mom and grandma’s recipes and bake your favorite treats from wherever you are. Share your traditions with your new friends. Make holiday crafts from your childhood. Whatever feels like home, bring it on the road.

Decorate Your Space, No Matter How Small Or Temporary

Even if you’re staying in a hotel room, find small ways to bring some holiday cheer to your space. Create a festive space with twinkle lights, a string of family photos, a small tabletop tree, scented wax melters or diffusers, holiday cards, and a digital photo slideshow picture frame.

Embrace Local Traditions

Part of the appeal of travel nursing is the opportunity to explore new places and experience new things. What’s popular in the local area? Discover holiday events and traditions like parades, handmade markets, and lighting ceremonies, and get excited about participating in new holiday traditions.

Get Your Self-Care On

When you’re feeling homesick, taking care of yourself is important. Make space to bring a little comfort into your life and create space in your schedule to prioritize self-care during the holiday season. Journaling, spa days, aromatherapy, meditation and yoga, and volunteering are great ways to put an extra spark in your long-distance holiday.

Virtual Celebrations

Pull out the laptop and make it a point to connect with loved ones back home while you’re away. Make it fun! Pop a bottle of champagne, play virtual games, and dress up for the event.

We Appreciate You This Season!

We hope you enjoy your holiday season and create a little home away from home.