ALASKA

Fun Facts From Globus Tours

• • • Less than 1% of Alaska’s land is privately owned
    • Russia’s Big Diomede Island and Alaska’s Little Diomede Island are only three miles apart
    • Oil is Alaska’s leading industry, tourism is second
    • Alaskan fishing vessels catch more than 5 billion pounds of seafood annual

Alaska is the size of California, Texas & Montana combined, yet has fewer highway miles than Vermont. This sparkling expanse, neighbored by Russia and Canada, offers daily moments of unique light, stillness and quiet unlike any place on earth, and clarity beyond compare – on a clear day in Denali National Park, the snow-capped mountains can be seen from 20 miles away. First established as a game reserve, Denali promises wildlife at every turn – grizzly bears, moose, caribou, and occasionally black bears and wolves can be spotted. Cruising from Valdez, wildlife is also abundant and the glowing glaciers are a reminder of Alaska’s unique position on the globe. Commonly seen on this quintessential Alaska preview are humpback whales, sea lions, harbor seals on floating ice, and maybe even land animals at times. Another great way to enjoy Alaska’s endless scenery is by train, watching the untamed wilderness from the comfort of the Alaska Railway.

Alaska is blessed by its location. With its upper half dipping into the Arctic Circle, it offers the rare opportunity to see the magnificent Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights). This stunning phenomenon is delicate and fickle as it doesn’t always present itself (the aurora is most frequently seen in late February and early March). But when it does, in the quiet hours of the late night and early morning, it creates one of the most dazzling and inspiring images on earth. Witness these wisps of light in unexpected color dance across the starlit Alaskan skyline and feel the awe of this majestic part of the world.

This massive state is also well known for the iconic Iditarod National Historic Trail. Find out how goods were transported across great distances of cold and often dangerous land; check out Happy Trails Kennels – home of four-time Iditarod champion, Martin Buser, and his sled dogs. Take in the majesty of Kenai Fjords National Park, its vistas and sea life – perhaps witness glaciers calving into the sea, powerful whales, and playful sea otters. “Catch of the day” can almost be taken literally in Alaska! Homer, the Halibut Fishing Capital of the world, is a dream destination for avid fishers. This state provides a unique opportunity to eat fresh meat and seafood, and sample flavors that can’t be found anywhere else. Food is a source of pride for the indigenous population of Alaska and it is not to be missed when traveling there. “Fireweed honey,” spruce tip syrup, and unique Alaskan beers are just some of the flavors for sampling. Step out of everyday life and into the great Western frontier. This extraordinary state is an experience like no other – unparalleled power and beauty.

CURRENCY

For the most current exchange rates, please go to our website at Globusjourneys.com/Currency.

Although credit cards are widely accepted in the United States, we recommend our passengers carry some cash (~$50.00) to use in circumstances when credit cards are not accepted or in destinations where ATMs are not readily available.

BUDGETING AND SHOPPING

When budgeting for your trip, keep in mind that the cost of goods, including food, drinks, and souvenirs, may differ significantly from what you’re used to at home. In general, Alaska is more expensive than destinations in the continental United States.

Shopping
Shop for Alaskan specialties: an ulu knife, beautiful hand-carved Totem poles, ivory, jade, and gold jewelry, native dream catchers and spirit masks, wild berry products, coffee table books, hats, scarves, mittens, and sweaters made from qiviut, the extra-soft and extra-warm under-wool from musk oxen. Make sure to stop by the Anchorage Market and Festival located at Third Avenue and E Street. On the weekend, there’s no better place to shop for a variety of items including local art, souvenirs, jewelry, clothing, vegetables, and more.

TEMPERATURES

Alaska has a subarctic climate resulting in cooler temperatures throughout the summer months. When traveling to the coast please keep in mind that the ocean breeze may give the sensation of colder temperatures. Higher elevations, like those found in Denali National Park will have drier air but may be slightly cooler than those found at lower elevations. We recommend checking local weather in each of your destinations prior to travel to ensure you are adequately prepared for the conditions. To help you plan, below are average low and high temperatures for Alaska.

To convert to Celsius, subtract 30, then divide by 2. While not exact, this simple formula will give a close estimation..

FOOD SPECIALTIES

Enjoy some of the state’s specialties such as cold water seafood; like salmon, halibut, and Alaskan King Crab, or large game animal like moose, caribou, elk or bear. Sourdough bread is so popular that the word “sourdough” is slang for a person who lives in Alaska. For those with a sweet tooth, you’ll enjoy all the amazing wild berries: blueberries, cranberries, lingonberries, salmonberries and more. Try some of the fresh made jams and jellies, pies, and chocolates.

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE COUNTRY INFORMATION

Additional country-specific information for US citizens can be found on the US Government’s website www.travel.state.gov. Here, you can find the most up-to-date information about destination descriptions, passports/visas, safety and security, transportation, travel local laws, alerts/warnings, vaccinations, and more. For citizens of other nations, we recommend you consult your local consulate for travel information, regulations, and requirements.