Going North To Alaska – Here’s Why

The only way I’ve seen Alaska is by cruise-ship. If you are anything like me, I can’t say I’d recommend it. It felt too cushy and comfortable and too removed from the starkly beautiful coastline and the endlessly challenging terrain. I will give full props though to the fine onboard chefs who provided me elegant, delicious multi-course meals on fine bone china and white linen seemingly round the clock. That was good living indeed.

Fodor’s take on Alaska - “Nowhere else can travelers kayak to glaciers; fly over the highest peak in North America; wonder at the Aurora Borealis; stay out all night celebrating the midnight sun; visit quirky towns; spot bears, eagles, moose, and whales; and learn the true meaning of the word “remote” all in the same trip”. Hell - I didn’t see that Alaska – and I would love to! Next trip I’m sticking to the land and using experienced local guides to really explore this rugged frontier.

I want to kayak along the unspoiled coastline and hike along the glaciers. I want to catch big fish and cook them over a roaring fire, and then at day’s end to stare skyward waiting for the magic of the Northern Lights to unfold before my eyes. Much better than mai-tais with the grey hairs on the lido deck.

This beautiful short film shot in and around Anchorage sets the stage just right. Enjoy!

So I’ve concluded that the pampering of the cruise-ship just isn’t for me, and my recent travels have found me most often curled up in a drooling ball on an overnight bus between destinations. What mode of travel suits you best? Talk to me.