See what the experts are saying about Alaska. Get expert advice on how to get there what to see and more.
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Regions in brief
Southeast Alaska -- The Southeast Panhandle is the relatively narrow strip of mountains and islands lying between Canada and the Gulf of Alaska. To Alaskans, it's Southeast, but to the rest of the country, it's more like the northernmost exte... Continue reading »
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Sustainable travel & ecotourism
Climate change is affecting Alaska faster and more severely than anywhere else on the globe. But even the most committed environmentalists in Alaska have a hard time reducing their carbon footprint -- the amount of carbon dioxide each of us c... Continue reading »
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Tips for families
When we researched our first edition of this guide, my son, Robin, was 3, and my daughter, Julia, was 6 months. As I write this, Robin is 15, Julia is 12, Joseph is 8, and Becky is 6. You might run into us in a campground or on a boat dock an... Continue reading »
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Tips for gay and lesbian travelers
Anchorage, Juneau, and Fairbanks have active gay and lesbian communities. In Anchorage, Identity Inc. (www.identityinc.org) offers referrals, publishes a newsletter called Northview, sponsors activities throughout the year, and operates a gay... Continue reading »
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Tips for senior travelers
People over age 65 get reduced admission prices to many Alaska attractions, and some accommodations have special senior rates. The National Park Service offers a senior free admission and discount program to those 62 or older under the ungain... Continue reading »
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Tips for student travelers
Many museums offer free or reduced admission for students and anyone under 18, although sometimes you have to ask. Make sure to bring a student ID card. There are hostels in most towns in Alaska. Except for those in Anchorage, Fairbanks, a... Continue reading »
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Tips for travelers with disabilities
Today it is rare to find a hotel without rooms accessible for travelers with disabilities, and many B&Bs have made the necessary adjustments as well. The results often are the best rooms in the house. Make sure to ask for the special rooms wh... Continue reading »
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Suggested itineraries
Readers ask me about how to fit together their itineraries more frequently than any other travel question. Alaska is unfamiliar territory and the transportation connections are different from those in most places. You can't get to the capital... Continue reading »
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In one week
This plan takes you to the Southeast's highlights, with whales, glaciers, mountains, totem poles, and Russian American history included. It's fast-paced yet still covers less than half of this diverse and fascinating region. If you have more... Continue reading »
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In two weeks
This driving loop includes much of the best of the Interior, Prince William Sound, Anchorage, and Denali National Park. It allows you to end up where you started, saving money on plane tickets and car rental. And you'll see some remote and of... Continue reading »
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For families
Traveling with children means limiting distances and increasing time for casual fun. The best place to do that is on the Kenai Peninsula south of Anchorage. Despite being a relatively contained area, the peninsula is a microcosm of the whole... Continue reading »
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In winter
Winter is when Alaska is at its best. The snow simplifies the scenery and makes it even more beautiful. The outdoor activities are superb: cross-country and downhill skiing, snowmobiling, ice skating, and dog mushing. The people are especiall... Continue reading »
