Northern Light Viewing

Northern lights are fun to see.  They are not out every night; and you can not always personal see them, even if they are.

Recalling back to an Alaska cruise with the 50Plus group of Thomas Rd Baptist Church ... Several of us were standing on the back deck of a Princess ship.  We noticed, several further back, were looking into the sky and pointing.  Where the others of us were, we saw nothing, that they were looking at.  We walked back to the ship, to learn what the others were seeing.  There it was ... Northern Lights.  We proved, that we can all be looking up in the sky at the same time, however, it's often "where you are standing" !

Another time, I was on Cruise West (no longer in business) and the captain woke us up, in the middle of the night, to come out and view the Northern Lights (rooms signed up to be contacted).  It again, was great !

Though the Northern Lights are often seen while in Alaska, it is not a "given"; you are still very fortunate to see them !  It's about being in the right place, at the right time !

Article from TravelAlaska.com

http://www.travelalaska.com/Things%20To%20Do/Winter%20Activities/NorthernLightsViewing.aspx

 

Fairbanks Alaska - Voted second best US City to visit in 2013

Reported from Premier Alaska Tours

Fairbanks, Alaska - Listed on Lonely Planet Top US Destination

Congratulations to Fairbanks, Alaska, for being named the United States' second best US destination to visit in 2013 by Lonely Planet, the leading travel guidebook publisher and website. The honor is part of Lonely Planet's annual Top US Destinations series, which recognizes the top 10 U.S. cities and regions that have good reason to welcome visitors in the coming year.

The annual Lonely Planet Top US Destinations list is compiled by Lonely Planet’s editors and authors. Mr. Reid said that the choices are not based on where travelers are already going but rather are "our pick of where we believe travelers really should consider visiting in 2013."

United Airlines has just announced NEW NON-STOP Service between Fairbanks and Chicago starting in June 2013. Daily flights operate from June 6 through August 26, 2013. United is also expanding the season for the NON-STOP service from Denver by starting service on May 13, 2013 and operating until September 14, 2013. This makes arriving into Fairbanks very convenient for travelers booked on the Alaska Explorer Escorted land tour.

Premier Alaska Tours is proud to offer escorted land tours that feature two night stays in Fairbanks both in the winter and summer months! This fabulous destination is featured in our Grand Alaska and Alaska Explorer summer programs and our brand NEW Ultimate Winter Wonderland program! Check them out today!

 

Premier Alaska Tours UnWraps Additions to their Transportation Fleet!

Announced by Premier Alaska Tours.

Premier Alaska Tours is pleased to announce the purchase of four luxury Dome Railcars that will provide rail adventures between Anchorage, Denali National Park, Fairbanks and all points in between.

The journey through the “Last Frontier” is never complete until guests travel along the railbelt of Alaska. With pristine scenery gently rolling by, guests will experience 360⁰ views aboard Deluxe Dome Railcars. The 80 large forward facing upper-level seats recline for guests' enjoyment and comfort. Beverage service is available for guests on the upper level, with full meal service located in the dining area below. Dining service features china, table lines and an enticing menu all while traveling through magnificent wilderness creating a beautiful setting for a delicious meal. The outdoor viewing deck provides ample opportunities for unobstructed photos. Cars are designed to ensure a smooth ride, so dining and photography are done in comfort. All train cars are equipped with an elevator making them completely wheelchair accessible. Tour narration by seasoned train staff completes the Alaska Deluxe Dome Rail experience.

With an expanded fleet of motorcoaches, deluxe dome rail cars, luggage trucks,
vans and courtesy vehicles, we can accommodate all of your transportation needs
throughout the “Great Land”. This winning combination will facilitate seamless transportation for all your Alaska Land tour requests! Sell Deluxe Alaska Land tour programs with one call or email!

Our Fairbanks Motorcoach shop is now a full-service year-round facility. This allows Premier Alaska Tours to offer a higher level of service throughout Alaska.

 

 

How much snow does Alaska average each year ? What are temperatures like in summer ? See pictures

Good grief, today, it’s 39 degrees in Lynchburg, VA.  Yet, it is 33 degrees in Anchorage; 35 in Juneau; 41 in Skagway; and 39 in Ketchikan.  Alaska is most certainly having a heat wave today, when just other day, it was snowing !

 

However, this past week was not Anchorage first snow fall for 2012.  It was Tuesday, October 30, 2012.  Here’s a snow angel, left in the new snow on Potter Marsh.  Picture by  MARC LESTER — Anchorage Daily News

 

How much snow does Alaska average a year ?  From Answer.com

Alaska is a huge state with large variations in terrain, so snowfall varies a lot. Snowfall is least in extreme SE Alaska and also on the North Slope where it is too cold for much snow to fall. Snowfall here averages about 25-30 inches annually.

Anchorage gets 70.6 inches of snowfall in an average year, and Juneau averages nearly 100 inches. But some of the highest totals occur along the south coast where precipitation is nearly constant in the winter.

January 2012 was one of the worst “snow” pile that Alaska can remember.

http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-201_162-57358349/worst-alaska-winter-piles-on-more-snow/

27 foot snow fall

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2085892/Record-snowfall-Anchorage-Alaskan-communities-run-shovels-following-27ft-snowfall.html

 

Here’s some neat pictures:

http://wiki.answers.com/Q/How_much_snow_does_Alaska_average#slideshow_catimages=callout_0.7

 

What's the summer weather like in Alaska?  From Alaska.com

The Southcentral climate (Anchorage, the Kenai Peninsula and the surrounding area) boasts relatively mild summers (highs near 70).

The Interior climate (Fairbanks and Denali) has warm summers (highs in the 90s).

The climate of the Inside Passage, where most of the cruise ships go, is usually warm and damp (summer highs in the 60s and 70s).

Coastal areas have more moderate temperatures than inland areas as well as more precipitation. Daily temperature fluctuations are wider inland.

In late spring and early summer (close to the solstice in mid-June), the days are the longest. Early summer has less rain than late summer and fall.

 

 

 

Have you booked your 2013 vacation yet ?  Based on cruise bookings and dates already sold out, looks like this "is" the year for traveling to Alaska ! 

 

 

Reserving Alaska Hotels and Cruises

 

Had cruise customer call me yesterday, to say, that when they were searching online, for a hotel to stay at, night prior to their Land Tour package (with a cruise), they saw a price of $ 75; then when they looked at their specific date, it jumped to $150.

 

Often, when areas have a high tourist season, rates most often go up during that time.  I can not say, that I agree, that rates should automatically go up, just because there’s a car show or a race or something specifically going on in a town, that will pull folks in.  Yet, I do understand, based on supply and demand, as properties or hotels or package begin selling out, that rates go up.

Here’s a different way to look at it.  If a package or property, like a hotel, has a certain value to it, but during certain seasons or weeks, no one is interested in traveling or going there, I can understand, lowering the price on this property or package, to entice folks to buy anyway ! 

 

Alaska is a good example of this.  Yesterday, I looked at my weather apt on my phone and saw -9 degrees in Anchorage.  I’m thinking to myself, “yeah, I’m glad I’m not considering going up there right now”.  So at this time of weather, it’s easy to understand that the hotel may not be able to lure folks in traveling.  So why not offer some savings to those folks who will; who are enticed by a savings; who may not travel otherwise; who are  actually helping to put a little money in the pocket of that hotel or package.

 

The cruise business is the same way.  A balcony cabin might fare at $1500-1900 pp.  During heavy travel seasons, like Summer or Christmas, the cruise lines can easily sell this price.  But during other seasons, when teachers or kids are in school, or when business do not allow vacation time, the cruise lines still need to sell this space.  That’s when you see sales or discounted pricing by the cruise lines.

 

So in general, it’s not about raising the rate during peak season; it’s about lowering the value or rate during times when others are not able to travel, in hopes of enticing those folks, who can either go any time, who love a “sale”, or could not afford to go during the heavy traveled times.

 

Here’s some additional cruise insight:

The cruise lines run reports to see how well certain dates or “selling”. They have it all mapped out, to know, how many cabins they need to have sold by a certain time frame.   When a specific date or several dates are not at the level they want sold, that’s when they put out a sale; of course, sometimes, they do offer sales for across the board (all sailings during a certain period); and other times, those savings are only given to specific folks like seniors, military, or folks who live in a certain state, or only past guest.

Know, that if the date you want to travel is selling well, you may not ever see your date on sale.   And even though you wish to have the best savings, it’s not really worth, putting off to the last minute, in hopes of the rate going down.

The smart thing to do is buy early; and when I say early, I am talking 1 year to 15 months from sailing.  In many cases, the early birds and the late comers who get the best rates; and the early birds are the ones who get the best cabins.  The only way to get a great cabin location when buying last minute, is if someone who bought early, decides to cancel.

Know, that in many cases, up till final payment, if the rate goes down, you can most often have it.  You just watch your sailing and you call your agent and let them know what you saw and allow them in reaching out to get this for you.   So it’s a win-win to buy early.

On the other hand, what you can not usually have in a sale is if they are offering amenities.  So if they come out with a sale that offers onboard credit, then this would not be most likely applicable to you, if you already bought.  I can understand wishing you will get the best offer and that $50 for the cabin may look good, I do !  But once you buy, you need to forget any sales offering amenities and only focus in watching your rate.

 

It’s not any different than going to the department store, and seeing your dress now 50% off or spend $50 and get another $ 10 off.  If you really wanted that  dress, if you wait, it may sell out and may never have that change of going on sale.

Know that agents do not get these reports to see how well a sailing is selling.  However, an agent can look at the cruise lines group space; when high amenities are still being offered to groups, then the space is wide open; however, if there are no amenities or amenities are minimal, it’s a good insight in knowing, that the space is selling right on schedule or almost sold out !  Heed to an agents word, if she shares this insight with you or lets you know that she/he only sees one or 2 cabins left (when 7 cabins are seen by an agent, then there could be even more).

One last concept on hotels.  I was told once, when in Seattle, by a hotel, that the closer to the date, the rates will go up.  This is supply and demand.  So remember, book your hotel packages early !

 

Isn’t it time you booked your 2013 Alaska cruise and tour package !   Many cruise tour packages are already, literally, sold out !  Don’t wait another day.  Make your plans today.  Before the New Year

(January is peak season for folks buying their 2013 vacation; beat the crowd; buy when your agent has more fee time; except, December is already proving to be a breaking record month in planning 2013 vacations; I’ve in sold dates for 2014) !

 

Tips from an Alaskan

Wow, it's been snowing in Juneau and Skagway this week, with expectations of snow in Ketchikan !  I noticed Anchorage temps got down to -2 one day this week !  I have an apt on my cell phone that keeps me informed of the weather in Alaska.

In “My Alaska” Newsletter, from TravelAlaska.com this month, there were some tips from Alaskans.

　

Seward

is a cute little town. I love visiting here ! Mostly I love the mountains and seeing all the sail and motor boats in port. Besides cruising from Seward on many a cruise ship, I have taken a boat tour into the Kenai Fjords to see many more glaciers; and from here, headed towards Anchorage, I have been to Exit Glacier twice, and love Portage Glacier and the Wildlife Preserve.
See what Paul Paquette has to say on Seward. http://www.travelalaska.com/Experience%20Alaska/Alaska%20Locals/Paul%20Paquette.aspx?utm_source=3141&utm_medium=ad
　

Juneau is always fun. I love walking the streets; shopping; going to Mendenhall Glacier (by bus and I have paddled a canoe there); taking the tram over top the city; and feasting on Dungeness Crab ! Also visiting the Red Dog Saloon to listening to the music and view their décor.
See what Bill Spear says about what he loves about Juneau:http://www.travelalaska.com/Experience%20Alaska/Alaska%20Locals/Bill%20Spear.aspx 　

Fairbanks offers much history. If I’m including this in my itinerary, I always love revisiting the River Boat Discovery and Gold Dredge.
See what Dermot Cole says in what to do in Fairbanks:http://www.travelalaska.com/Experience%20Alaska/Alaska%20Locals/Dermot%20Cole.aspx 　



Where is your favorite destination in Alaska ?

During Winter, does Alaska really get colder than the lower 50 states ?

Posting a day early this week, with tomorrow being Thanksgiving.  Happy "Turkey day"; eat plenty !

 

 

Alaska weather ...

 

Well, if you are comparing their weather to states like Arizona and Florida, then I have to answer yes, it typically gets much colder.  However, what I personally tend to compare the Alaska area to, is my own local city, Lynchburg, VA.

With Alaska being a deep love of mine, I keep its weather postings on my cell phone.  This way I can see daily, the temps for Seattle, Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, and Anchorage.

More than just often, Seattle and Lynchburg have compatible temperatures.  Yet lately, with Lynchburg being cold, I notice that Seattle has been warmer; and Juneau and Skagway often running more neck and neck with Lynchburg.  WOW, if Lynchburg is colder, then if I can receive the same temps in Alaska, WHY NOT be on vacation, is what I keep telling myself.

At present, 2am, I am looking at the temps:  Lynchburg – 41; Seattle – 51;  Ketchikan 42; Other port, 20’s.    With time difference, it’s not really comparative, but at an instant look, it will do.

Though I have been to Alaska 12 times, with the cruise season being May through September, and my first time there was immediately after high school, then summer is truly the only time I have experienced Alaska.  I have one client who flies up out of season.  I’m not so sure I could actually handle all the darkness associated to winters in Alaska.

No matter, I would love to be there, JUST TO VIEW THE SNOW ON THE MOUNTAINS ! 

What about you ?  Or share a different reason for dreaming to be in Alaska right now ?

 

 

 

When to book your 2013 Alaska Vacation ?

Didn't post last Thursday, with being in Fla with my folks for Thanksgiving.  Today is the first day I have connected the "net" to my new lap top, since down here with my folks.  Thanks for understanding.

It’s already end of November.  Most cruise lines have had available, since at least summer, cruise pricing.  With select dates already sold out, the time to commit is NOW.  Remember, cruises only sail from May to September; with peak season being June through August, these particular months will tend to sell out more quickly. 

Know that there are many cruise line cruise tours to choose from.   However, there are limited number of packages sold for each tour.  Tours are more of a “supply and demand” than even the cruises.

98% of the cruises are 7 nights (see my website for a few of the available sales) and land packages are available for up to another 7 nights (see these best, right on the cruise line website).  Know, that even though Alaska is a cooler climate, balconies are still the first type cabins to become scarce; especially the suites; more specifically, family suites are often done before pricing ever comes out. 

Industry is claiming, 2013 is the year for Alaska.

Norwegian's Alaska - Ask & Answer. Be aware of where you are getting your "cruise advice" !

Yes, I am back from my Sandy Hurricane Cruise to Bermuda.  As soon as I have time, I will post experiences.  Am sharing this today, instead of waiting to post here on my Alaska Blog on my regular week day of Thursday. 

Today, I received an email from Norwegian Cruise Line.  I noticed a section that said, Alaska - Ask & Answer.  I saw questions like, what is a good hotel to use near Seattle, etc, and thought, hmmm, this might be good info.

Well, I begin reading the questions; then the answers; these answers are NOT from an expert; not even an NCL representative !  Consumers are answering these questions.   UGGH ! 

Please, beware !  Do NOT rely on just any person answering your questions.  Your answers need to come directly from the cruise line or more specifically, the agent you are buying from, or better yet, from a CRUISE SPECIALIST !


Feel free to check out some of the questions/answers ....  I only looked at 3 and STOPPED !
http://www2.ncl.com/cruise-destination/alaska/questions


Example, one asked, can you smoke on the ship.  One person answers, I "think" you can.  Excuse me, I "think" does NOT warrant that person answering at all !

Another was, Do I need a passport ?  There were yes and no answers.  SORRY, this is NOT GOOD ENOUGH.  I would NOT want my clients reading info and getting 1/2 answers such as this.  And ...I am totally shocked that NCL makes this available on thier website.  I guess they are trying to be like Cruise-Critic, where folks are actually only "passing thier opinion" !  UGGH again !



FOLKS ... Non-Expert opinions is NOT what you need or want to go by !

You deserve an Alaska Adventure in your near future - WHY NOT 2013 !

Posting earlier than this Wednesday, October 31, because I will be on a cruise.  Next regular post, November 7.

Alaskan Adventures

If you're looking for more than your run-of-the-mill beach vacation this season, consider escaping to the wilds of Alaska. This land of glistening glaciers and polar bears is a destination gold mine for adventure seekers, wildlife lovers, and anyone wanting to enjoy some pure, natural beauty. Taking a cruise is one of the best opportunities to experience this unique destination.  Cruise travel offers guests the chance to experience Alaska from both water and land, and local travel expert (Name) has shared his/her Alaskan cruise must-sees.



ere's a few stops on your possible 7 night cruise adventure.

Glacier Bay National ParkOne of the largest World Heritage sites, Glacier Bay National Park spans 3.3 million acres of icy wilderness. True to its name, a large percentage of the park is the bay itself, making it the perfect place to see by water. Park rangers will join guests on board and point out the beautiful ice attractions, one of which includes a tidewater glacier, a 200ft- tall wall of ice that forms the mouth of a frozen inland river. Be sure to look for harbor seals frolicking amongst the floating ice caps.


Prince William SoundBordered by the Chugach Mountains to the East and the Kenai Peninsula to the Southwest, this area is best-known for its beautiful landscape, expansive forest, and varied wildlife.  It is home to seabirds, killer whales, harbor seals, and sea otters. If you're lucky, you may even have a bald eagle soar alongside your ship.   The renowned College Fjord is located in the North of the sound, where 8 fjords (deep inlets created by glacial movement) can be seen at once.

SkagwayDubbed the "Gateway to the Klondike" during the Gold Rush days this borough is a great starting point for Alaskan land adventures. Take a helicopter tour for an aerial view of the wilderness, or join local mushers as you dogsled across the glaciers.

Juneau As the state capital, Juneau is a thriving community filled with cultural attractions, great restaurants, adventurous hiking trails, and natural wonders. The Mount Roberts Tramway is an exciting way to experience both the natural and cultural sides of the city. Beginning at the cruise ship dock, guests can take a gondola ride through the rainforest up to the 1,800ft. Mount Roberts, where they can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views. There are also a variety of mountain-top cultural activities, including native and historical art and artist demonstrations, bear viewing platforms, the Juneau Raptor Center Bald Eagle Display, a nature center, and scenic hiking trails.


Many cruise lines - including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Princess, Holland America and Norwegian - offer Alaskan cruises with 7-day, and up to 7 additional day land pakages.   During cruise season - May to September - temperatures range between 50 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, making it ideal weather to enjoy the outdoors.

Know that there are cruises available round-trip and depart from such convenient locations as Washington, Seattle, or Vancouver.  Remember to ask about cruise-tours, if you're looking to extend your trip with more time on land.


If you think Alaska seems too far away, think again.

And when you're ready to plan this adventure from your "bucket list", call me; I LOVE TALKING with folks about Alaska and their upcoming opportunities to see THE LAST FRONTIER !  Better yet talk me into planning to host another group with your friends and family, and other customers, who too, are ready to GET AWAY to one of the best scenery type vacation ever !  I'm personally ready for adventure #13 in 2013 !

The Iditarod (Last Race on Earth). Only 135 more days till 2013 race

The Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race is an annual long-distance sled dog race. It is most certainly one of Alaska‘s well known popular sports.

Wikipedia. The Iditarod began in 1973 as an event to test the best sled dog mushers and teams but evolved into today's highly competitive race. The current fastest winning time record was set in 2011 by John Baker with a time of 8 days, 19 hours, 46 minutes, and 39 seconds.[2] As of 2012, Dallas Seavey is the youngest musher to win the race. Seavey is the third generation in his family to race.

Next race in 135 days. Saturday, March 2, 10:00 a.m.

2013 Iditarod Musher list (men and women).

http://iditarod.com/race/mushers/ 　




All below info provided by Iditarod.com.  Pictures from AlaskaStock.com

The Race. The object of the race is to determine which musher and dogs can cover the race in the shortest time under their own power and without aid of others. That is determined by the nose of the first dog to cross the finish line.

The Iditarod Trail International Sled Dog Race shall be a race for dog mushers meeting the entry qualifications as set forth by the Board of Directors of the Iditarod Trail Committee, Inc.


Here’s 2013 official rules.http://d3r6t1k4mqz5i.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Rules-2013-fourth-Draft-06-26-121.pdf

　

“The Last Great Race on Earth®”
You can’t compare it to any other competitive event in the world! A race over 1150 miles of the roughest, most beautiful terrain Mother Nature has to offer. She throws jagged mountain ranges, frozen river, dense forest, desolate tundra and miles of windswept coast at the mushers and their dog teams. Add to that temperatures far below zero, winds that can cause a complete loss of visibility, the hazards of overflow, long hours of darkness and treacherous climbs and side hills, and you have the Iditarod. A race extraordinaire, a race only possible in Alaska.

From Anchorage, in south central Alaska, to Nome on the western Bering Sea coast, each team of 12 to 16 dogs and their musher cover over *1,049 miles in 10 to 17 days.

It has been called the “Last Great Race on Earth®” and it has won worldwide acclaim and interest. German, Spanish, British, Japanese and American film crews have covered the event. Journalists from outdoor magazines, adventure magazines, newspapers and wire services flock to Anchorage and Nome to record the excitement. It’s not just a dog sled race, it’s a race in which unique men and woman compete. Mushers enter from all walks of life. Fishermen, lawyers, doctors, miners, artists, natives, Canadians, Swiss, French and others; men and women each with their own story, each with their own reasons for going the distance. It’s a race organized and run primarily by volunteers, thousands of volunteers, men and women, students and village residents. They man headquarters at Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, Nome and Wasilla. They fly volunteers, veterinarians, dog food and supplies. They act as checkers, coordinators, and family supporters of each musher.

The Spirit of Alaska! More Than a Race…
The race pits man and animal against nature, against wild Alaska at her best and as each mile is covered, it is a tribute to Alaska’s history and the role the sled dog’s played. The Iditarod is a tie to that colorful past.
The Iditarod Trail, now a National Historic Trail, had its beginnings as a mail and supply route from the coastal towns of Seward and Knik to the interior mining camps at Flat, Ophir, Ruby and beyond to the west coast communities of Unalakleet, Elim, Golovin, White Mountain and Nome. Mail and supplies went in. Gold came out. All via dog sled. Heroes were made, legends were born. In 1925, part of the Iditarod Trail became a life saving highway for epidemic-stricken Nome. Diphtheria threatened and serum had to be brought in; again by intrepid dog mushers and their faithful hard-driving dogs. Throughout the years, the sled dogs were important to day to day life in the villages and throughout Alaska. All of these examples and more are a part of Alaska’s history.
Redington had two reasons for organizing the long-distance Iditarod Race: to save the sled dog culture and Alaskan huskies, which were being phased out of existence due to the introduction of snowmobiles in Alaska; and to preserve the historical Iditarod Trail between Seward and Nome. These reasons were his life’s work.

An Event for All Alaska
  Anchorage is the starting line — a city of over 250,000 people, street lights, freeways and traffic. From there the field of dog teams which grow in number each year, runs to Eagle River, Checkpoint # 1. After a restart in the Matanuska Valley at Wasilla, the mushers leave the land of highways and bustling activity and head out to the Yentna Station Roadhouse and Skwentna and then up! Through Finger Lake, Rainy Pass, over the Alaska Range and down the other side to the Kuskokwim River — Rohn Roadhouse, Nikolai, McGrath, Ophir, Cripple, Iditarod and on to the mighty Yukon — a river highway that takes the teams west through the arctic tundra.

The race route is alternated every other year, one year going north through Cripple, Ruby and Galena, the next year south through Iditarod, Shageluk, Anvik.

Finally, they’re on the coast — Unalakleet, Shaktoolik, Koyuk, Elim, Golovin, White Mountain and into Nome where a hero’s welcome is the custom for musher number 1 or 61!

The route encompasses large metropolitan areas and small native villages. It causes a yearly spurt of activity, increased airplane traffic and excitement to areas otherwise quiet and dormant during the long Alaskan winter. Everyone gets involved, from very young school children to the old timers who relive the colorful Alaskan past they’ve known as they watch each musher and his team. The race is an educational opportunity and an economic stimulus to these small Alaskan outposts.
　

Here’s 2012 Documentary book.
http://www.iditarodstore.com/browse.cfm/4,4105.html

Only 135 more days to wait !

My all time favorites to do in Alaska

Though I’ve been to Alaska 12 times, it most certainly is NOT enough in my book ! I love to go each time, and continue to dream of my next visit there.

There are truly certain things that are a must for me to re-see or visit when I am there. I’m dreaming of them now !

NOTE, any tour companies listed below are only for the benefit of info; does not mean I have used them at all.


　

MY FAVORITE

Thing to do ...
Alaska RR (all over)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alaska_Railway

& Tour ...
Deadliest Catch tour(Ketchikan)

& Site ...
Mendenhall Glacier (Juneau)

ANCHORAGE

TOURS FROM ANCHORAGE
http://www.alaskawildlife.org/ http://portageglaciercruises.com/

PLACES TO VISIT
(I do not like the Alaska Heritage Center)
Seward Highway

RESTAURANTS/BARS (SALOONS)

http://www.sourdoughmining.com/ http://www.glacierbrewhouse.com/



FAIRBANKS

TOURS
http://riverboatdiscovery.com/

DENALI

PLACES TO VISIT
http://www.denali-park-tours.com/contents.html http://www.denaliparkresorts.com/alsakan-cabin-nite-dinner-theatre.aspx


WASILLA

PLACES TO VISIT
http://www.wasillachamber.org/visitorInformation/attractions/iditarodHeadquarters.htm

SEWARD

PLACES TO VISIT
I just like walking on the dog; taking the bus down to closer near the aquarium and visit the stores.



SKAGWAY

TOURS
http://www.wpyr.com/
PLACES TO VISIT
http://wikitravel.org/en/Skagway (The main street - Broadway)
RESTAURANTS/BAR (SALOONS)
http://www.redonion1898.com/ http://local.yahoo.com/info-22371593-bonanza-bar-grill-skagway
SHOPPING (everywhere)
Skagway - There are 2 stores, at very end of Broad Street, near Brewery, that I visit
　

JUNEAU

TOURS
http://www.alaskawhalewatching.com/ http://www.city-data.com/articles/Alaska-Gastineau-Mill-and-Gold-Mine-Tour.html http://www.alaskaadventures.com/alaska_day_tours/pages/j_mendenhall_lake_canoe.htm http://coastalhelicopters.com/
PLACES TO VISIT
http://www.alaskageographic.org/static/847/mendenhall-glacier-visitor-center-juneau http://westjuneau.com/tramway.htm (I do not like to pan for gold out in the woods)

RESTAURANTS/BAR (SALOONS)
http://www.reddogsaloon.com/ http://www.goldbelttours.com/mount-roberts-tramway/timberline-bar-grill/
SHOPPING (everywhere)
Juneau - The Shirt company is under the tram (across from tram terminal); and visit the rest of the stores on the main drag; also, Ben Franklin store.

KETCHIKAN

TOURS
http://alaskacruiseblog.com/photos/ketchikan-deadliest-catch/

PLACES TO VISIT
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g31030-d106663-Reviews-Creek_Street-Ketchikan_Alaska.html http://destinia.com/en/hotels/north-america/united-states/alaska/ketchikan-hotels/westmark-cape-fox-lodge-h72958 (ride $1 tram up; see totem poles; see ships thru trees)

RESTAURANTS/BAR (SALOONS)
http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g31030-d2271572-r134727786-Halibut_Hole-Ketchikan_Alaska.html http://local.yahoo.com/info-22371644-steamers-at-the-dock-ketchikan 　

SHOPPING (everywhere)
Ketchikan - On boardwalk, to far left is a store I like; also, the rest of the boardwalk and at the Creek; Also, I go to Salmon, etc store (buy salmon pills).

HAPPY VISITING ALASKA in making your own memories and "must do's"  !

When someone says Alaska, what is the 1st thing YOU think of ?

Personally, my first thought, "I must go there again in 2013 !".  I've been on 114 cruises, however, only 12 times to Alaska.  With this being my most favorite location, then I would have to say, my percentage of times there, is NOT high enough to suit me !


When putting that question out there on the internet, here’s what 25 folks said within four sites that I found. Then I decided to add links of info for your enjoyment


* Sarah Palin (Pictures & insight where she lives: Wascilla)
http://www.city-data.com/city/Wasilla-Alaska.html
* Mount McKinley the highest mountain peak in North America and the United States, with a summit elevation of 20,320 feet. (Civics Lesson)

http://www.elcivics.com/mount_mckinley_alaska_1.html
* Totem Poles (History)
http://gocalifornia.about.com/od/ak/a/totempole.htm
* Beautiful snowy landscape (pictures)
http://www.bing.com/images/search?q=snowy+landscapes+in+alaska+&qpvt=snowy+landscapes+in+alaska+&FORM=IGRE
* Baked Alaska (history)
http://www.foodreference.com/html/artbakedalaska.html
* Igloo (Neat picture)
http://www.terragalleria.com/america/alaska/parks-highway/picture.alas52299.html
* Polar bear (facts & more)

http://www.bearplanet.org/polarbear.shtml
* Ice (why is it melting so fast)
http://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/earth/geophysics/arctic-ice.htm
* Penguins (??)
http://news.mongabay.com/2007/0605-penguins.html
* Pioneer Park (website)
http://co.fairbanks.ak.us/pioneerpark/attractions/attractions.htm
* Alaska Railroad (history)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alaska_Railway
* Best ice cream in Fairbanks is Hot Licks - locally made (website)
http://www.hotlicks.net/
* Wonder Lake, Denali (tours)
http://www.reservedenali.com/play/shuttle-buses/wonder-lake.aspx
* Hiking (best trails)
http://www.trails.com/toptrails.aspx?area=10049
* Riverboat tour in Fairbanks (website)
http://riverboatdiscovery.com/
* El Dorado Goldmine (website)
http://eldoradogoldmine.com/
* Arctic Circle (history)
http://eldoradogoldmine.com/
* Chena Hot Springs in Fairbanks (website)
http://www.chenahotsprings.com/
* North pole (Fairbanks)
http://fairbanks-alaska.com/north-pole-alaska.htm
* Northern lights (pictures)
http://www.bing.com/images/search?q=northern+light+pictures&qpvt=northern+light+pictures&FORM=IGRE
* Boat tour of Kenai Fjords (tours)
http://www.kenaifjords.com/
* Eskimos (Alaska Heritage)
http://www.akhistorycourse.org/articles/article.php?artID=151
* Daylight (or darkness). (sunlight hours)
http://www.absak.com/library/average-annual-insolation-alaska
* Wilderness (species)

http://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=species.main
* Best fishing (by Frommer)
http://www.frommers.com/destinations/alaska/0210020832.html

　
　
　
　
　
　
　

　
　
　

Which Alaska Land Cities should I visit

Folks often ask me, which cities do I want included in my land tour package with the cruise lines (what I prefer/what I choose).


If I had never been, I would automatically want to include Fairbanks into my package. Then when I come back in future, I may not necessarily have to choose this again (though I have several times).



FAIRBANKS. It’s fairly a plain city. Though all you may really get is the River Boat Tour and the Gold Dredge, I personally love both of these and would never go to Fairbanks without seeing BOTH !

So many people have said they love seeing Susan Butcher’s Iditarod camp from the boat ! And though the Gold Dredge is fairly commercialized, with being able to go into the store and buy many different items, that may hold your collected gold, I love the fact, that when I’m panning for gold, I’m not really in any type of creek atmosphere (like Juneau) ! If lunch is included on your tour, that’s a bonus; also if you get to go see an actual gold dredge machine; or stop to see the Alaska pipeline !

FYI, there are Bed and Breakfast places here, if doing package on your own or coming up day early !  Not suggesting where you stay, but I most definitely and highly suggest that everyone goes up a day early, even day earlier than the Cruise/Tour package begins !   

And FYI, my preferred choice and only way I have traveled to Denali is by the Alaska Railroad; never by motor coach or car ! I love the rail road ! This is a 4 hour trip.

DENALI. Most people automatically want to go here. You don’t necessarily have to go to Fairbanks to get there, but if not by way of Fairbanks, you’ll have to get there from at least Anchorage.

I’ve never stayed more than one night at a time. Problem is, you will not be given your schedule in advance of getting there; so you don’t know what time you arrive or how much free time you will have, other than looking at the Alaska Rail Road schedule. In essence, what I am saying, it’s possible, all you will basically have time for is a trip out into the National Park. You may want more. You may want to horseback ride, take a plane ride, water rafting, and one thing I totally love is Cabin Night (dinner & a show), and you might not even have time for this, with only one day there.

Again, I’ve only traveled to Anchorage by way of Railroad (8 hours); I have never done the motor coach (5-6 hours ? I forgot). My first time by rail, I totally loved it; many folks got board; but I was taking pictures, so I was a happy little person with all the sites !

ANCHORAGE. She doesn’t really do too much for me. I totally love flying into here and seeing the sugar coated look mountains, but a person could fly into here, before flying on over to Fairbanks, if they’re lucky or choose this. I do have a couple restaurants that I love here (Glacier BrewHouse and Sourdough Mining Company). I have to say, this last time in May, I wasn’t even really impressed with the Flea Market, which I normally love; and the shopping downtown didn’t get me too excited (but I was shopped out, cause I was about to catch my flight home). So if you’re on, such as a Princess, that is only stopping in Anchorage for lunch, this actually enough for me (usually it stops downtown, so I’m headed to the BrewHouse).

However, there are tours, nearby, that I love ! So if on your own, and possibly not really doing a cruise tour, but sailing North or Southbound, I would most definitely plan 2 nights here; rent a car ! The Seward Highway is gorgeous; the Wildlife Preserve; and Portage Glacier. If I had a lot of time, I might even drive down to Wasilla (Palin’s home area) to see the Iditarod Headquarters to ride the dog sled for $10. For hikers, going to Exit Glacier is great (Seward); but I’ve done this twice and it take 1 ½ hours, and that’s no longer for me ! Actually, I would prefer, if sailing out of Seward, to take the Alaska Railroad from Anchorage ! So for my 2^nd time, I would only do this, if it were me; however, usually I am taking groups, so I have to choose more.


As far as others stops.

SEWARD. It’s darling. Very few packages offer staying here. I’ve not stayed here, so I don’t know where the hotel is usually situated at. It’s not a must stay, just cute. You will automatically see this port, as long as you are sailing on any cruise line other than Princess (which leaves from Whittier, which is also cute).



As mentioned above, I prefer Alaska Rail Road to get to or from Anchorage; but by motor coach is good too ! There’s also a tour company out there that you can buy the motor coach transfers to include some tours (problem, if they don’t have a full bus going that day, they could call and cancel on you).


MNT MCKINLEY (with Princess). I hear this is great; my customers rave over it; I’ve yet to go here.

TELKEETNA (with Celebrity/Royal Caribbean). If you love the looks of a cabin type look for a hotel (outside) with wooded area in back to walk, quiet and peace, then this is great. There’s a deck on back and you can sit and eat or have a few drinks; was nice. I’ve done it once and for me, that was enough. My GF and associate, Bobbye, she loves this, as one of her most favorite. Not enough action for me ! I did take a jet boat ride; saw mountains and woods; had we seen some wildlife, this may have been better !
I traveled here from Denali by Alaska Railroad. Railroad, to me, is always easiest form of travel; but I can’t say that we saw much on this journey; and my customers totally seemed bored.


COPPER RIVER. I’ve not been here; it‘s between Anchorage and Seward. My GF and associate Bobbye says it’s a bumpy long road getting there and it’s like Telkeetna or Mnt McKinley.

ALYESKA. I’ve stopped hear a couple of times, yet, have not gone up on the gondola (never seems to be open when I’m there).  Note, I have not seen Alyeska based on the view you see here on the left !





DAWSON CITY.  I've been here.  These are usually not done except on longer packages. I did like this.  City is much smaller and dead than Skagway !  However, went to an area that people have bought tiny sections of land and people are searching out their gold.   Also, we went to a show here.  Also, went to a lounge, and when we left a midnight, it was still light !

WHITEHORSE, CANADA.  Can't say much for here.  Just big city.  Has hospital. 

And I've been to a couple other cities on these longer tours !



Though I 100% love the history and sites (and possible wildlife), that I mentioned above, on the land portion of Alaska, that’s all I like. I’m not really into the woodsie-log cabin concept or total peace and quiet and most definitely do not care to hike (afraid I would run into wild life).

I’m really just a cruise lover. I love going into the ports and then come back onboard for a great meal (with no bill) and then optional entertainment. Alaska by day and luxury at night !

So my choices for land, are truly listed above ! But honestly, unless you try each of these places yourself, you miss out … Whether you ended up liking it or not ! EVERYTHING IS AN EXPERIENCE and you should not choose to miss any of it !


Note, look at pictures on line at the above locations.  This truly will help you decide !  Admit it, these pictures turned you on right ? !