Like the big, red 'X' that marks the proverbial spot, "You Are Here." The trouble is, you are not exactly sure where "here" is. The prospect of being the new person in town may leave you feeling a bit intimidated at first, but rest assured. Armed with a mixture of facts, logic, and instinct, you will soon be navigating uncharted territories like a seasoned professional.

Getting there
Before setting off on your adventure, obtain the essentials required to ensure a flawless journey. Will you be traveling by car? Providing more than emergency roadside assistance, auto clubs are excellent resources for planning road trips. For example, the American Automobile Association (AAA) can map out itineraries for its members and provide them with road construction reports and TripTiks™ (handheld maps that outline directions a section at a time). Additionally, membership privileges frequently include guidebooks and discount tickets for theme parks and movie theaters.

Since recruiters at staffing firms are in the business of regularly placing physicians in unfamiliar settings, they can proffer meaningful tips and pointers, as well. All you have to do is ask.

Need information in a flash? Dive into the digital ocean and surf the Internet. Websites such as http://www.mapquest.com and http://www.expedia.com contain search engines that enable you to secure itemized driving directions simply by entering your current location and desired destination. In fact, the "Start" and "End" positions of your expedition will be incorporated into customized maps, along with features providing distance lengths and anticipated travel time. Options such as "quickest, shortest, or scenic" allow you to tailor the excursion to your preference, and useful links provide particulars about rest stops, mobile services, and road conditions you may encounter along the way.

Traveling by plane, train, or bus? Contact the area chamber of commerce (http://www.chamberofcommerce.com) or information center for public transportation schedules, maps, and other pertinent data. If you're heading to a metropolitan area, this information can also be found on transit authority websites of your destination state or city.

Getting out and about
Of course, finding your way around a strange community involves more than connecting the dots between points A and B. If you will be in the area for a while, you'll want to foster a bond with your adopted neighborhood. Fortunately, there are a number of ways to get a "feel" for your temporary home.

Once you arrive, determine a practical route and gauge the mileage between your living quarters and the hospital or practice. Remember that traffic patterns will differ depending on the time of day and weekends. Customarily, you can expect a reasonable commute, but, if travel time is a major concern, be sure to discuss it with your recruiter prior to finalizing your arrangements.

Keeping a journal is a great way to collect your bearings—and record your personal viewpoint. Jot down thoughts, instructions, remembrances, and notable places. As a bonus, you'll end up with a combination reference manual/keepsake.

Will you be residing in a large city? If so, you can profit by starting your initial exploration on foot in the downtown district. Arrive early in the day to allow yourself plenty of time to walk at a leisurely pace and really get to know the area. You will be surprised at the nooks and crannies you would have surely missed in a moving vehicle—while uncovering little treasures that can't be found on a pocket map. Historic walking tours are also a terrific option because they provide the chance to go back in time for a glimpse into the region's past. Browse specialty shops, admire the architecture, and soak up the sights, scents, and sounds. Before you know it, you'll start feeling comfortable in—and connected to—your new surroundings.

If time doesn't allow for a lengthy indulgence, a bus tour is a smart investment for a quick overview. Ordinarily lasting an hour, this outing can make you more attuned to the city's layout, and tour guides are usually happy to answer questions you may have.

Obviously, if your designated locale is rural, you may require a different approach to become accustomed to the environment. Remain open-minded and be creative. If walking isn't feasible, drive down the main street or along winding, country roads to unearth shortcuts and become familiar with the vicinity. Take a ride through the heart of town and make it your goal to pinpoint landmarks, quaint shops, or scenic trails.

Getting the lowdown
Once you are moving about with confidence, you will want to know about the components that make the community special. Where do residents congregate, shop, or go to unwind? From the ordinary to the sublime, each neighborhood possesses a subtle charm you won't find anywhere else.

If you are looking for amenities close to your apartment or hotel, speak with management or neighbors. They can easily point you in the right direction for staples such as the post office, library, grocery stores, gas stations, banks, and shopping centers.

To get up-to-the-minute, comprehensive information about the area, the Internet can be a valuable tool. Check out http://www.citysearch.com or http://www.areaguides.net for entertainment alternatives, cultural events, museums, festivals, supermarket savings, weather, and more. From free attractions to the best slice of pizza, these sites offer amazing details about your chosen location.

Contrary to popular belief, vacationing families aren't the only ones who can benefit from visitors' bureaus and convention centers. These facilities provide specifics on where to go for fun and recreation—and stopping at them is an absolute must for anyone interested in learning more about surrounding areas.

Getting acquainted
Networking is a very effective way to encounter people and make friends. Join social and professional groups, a health club, or take a self-enrichment course. Do you enjoy hiking, swimming, or baking? Pursue your hobbies as if you were at home, and you are bound to come across like-minded enthusiasts who share your passion.

Interested in locating the perfect cup of coffee or a reasonably priced dry cleaner? Neighbors and coworkers are your most valuable assets for this type of minutiae. Introduce yourself, let them know you are from out of town, ask for their insights on everything from restaurants to beauty salons…and anticipate a warm response. Striking up conversations with locals is a great way to find out about community events, unique stores, and the best music in town. Bear in mind that nothing beats an endorsement by word of mouth, and you may become privy to some of the area's lesser-known gems.

Get going!
Have fun relishing the time in your new community—and think about leaving the compass at home. Who knows? You may discover that a sense of humor is just as important as a sense of direction.