Heading to San Fran

[registeredin06]

I realize that there is already a post about CA nursing, but it is outdated and extremely long and messy.

I am looking for information about the San Francisco area. I plan on doing my first travel assignment in January, coming from AZ, and would like to know what areas are safe to live in, which to avoid. I am single, in my twenties, 2.5 years ICU experience, looking for an area a little hip and trendy, but SAFE. Or a smaller town towards the redwoods that is gorgeous and safe, but still kinda hip. Also, the same for hospitals, which are good, which to avoid. How much should I expect to make and negotiate for? Have the agency set me up with housing or take the stipend? Recommendations for travel agencies? Any info.? Thanks.

[Kensington]

I realize that there is already a post about CA nursing, but it is outdated and extremely long and messy.

I am looking for information about the San Francisco area. I plan on doing my first travel assignment in January, coming from AZ, and would like to know what areas are safe to live in, which to avoid. I am single, in my twenties, 2.5 years ICU experience, looking for an area a little hip and trendy, but SAFE. Or a smaller town towards the redwoods that is gorgeous and safe, but still kinda hip. Also, the same for hospitals, which are good, which to avoid. How much should I expect to make and negotiate for? Have the agency set me up with housing or take the stipend? Recommendations for travel agencies? Any info.? Thanks.

I would start to look at areas near your hospital, because getting around the city takes more time than you think (my friend lives four miles away and it takes me 20+ minutes to get over to her via car). There are so many wonderful areas to live in, but by your age and description, it sounds like you might like: the Marina, Cow Hollow, parts of SoMa, maybe even Hayes Valley. I live in Noe Valley, and while it's "cute", it's not "hip", unless you're a new mom, then it is quite so. It's off the J- Church muni line though, which is a nice convenience. PM me if you'd like more info, privately! You'll love it here!

Kens :)

[suzanne4, RN]

You need to first come up with a facility, contracts are always changing and needs change. Not all agencies staff all hospitals.

If you are not going to have a car, make sure that the apt as well as the hospital are located close to public transportation and if you do have a car; please be aware that you will be paying about $400 a month for parking. And that is not paid for by the agency.

Always go with the housing when you are first starting to travel, it is always easier to move into a new area with everything all set up for you, instead of having to arrive a week early and have to do everything on your own. Agencies will not start to pay the stipend until you are actually working, and the deposits can be quite hefty in some complexes.

At least that is what I would do and especially in this area.