Alaska is one of the 50 states that make up the United States of America. It is located on the extreme northwest region of North America. It shares borders with two Canadian provinces: Yukon and British Columbia. When you travel to Alaska, you will discover that majority of its massive land are inhabited. In fact, half of its residents live in Anchorage’s metropolitan area.
The economy of Alaska thrives on tourism, fishing, natural gas and oil industry. As the largest state in the US, it is double the size of Texas. It was the Russians who gave the state its name during its colonial period.
The temperature in Alaska is that of an oceanic climate. However, it varies greatly depending on which region of the state you belong in.
Currency: US Dollar
Official Language: English is the official language in Alaska.
WiFi Availability: There are many places to get free WiFi when you travel to Alaska. Coffee shops are the best options for you.
Airport/s: The Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport is the largest airport and main hub for flights that travel to Alaska.
Visa Required: The visa requirements for travel to Alaska is the same with the rest of the United States.
Driving: In Alaska, you must drive on the right hand side of the road.
International Driver’s License Accepted? There is no need to secure an international driver’s license to drive in Alaska. You can use your existing driver’s license.
Crime: Alaska might be beautiful but it is notorious for being one of the most dangerous states in the United States. For one, it ranks third in the US in terms of per capita murder rate. Rape cases are also prevalent in Alaska. Women are therefore warned about traveling alone in Alaska.
Electrical Adapters: In Alaska, you will be using 120 volts of electricity at 60 Hertz.
Trivia: Alaska is a very big state. In fact, if you combine three of the biggest states in the US (Texas, California and Montana).
Where to Go in Alaska
When you travel to Alaska, you cannot pass up a visit to these top rated attractions:
Denali National Park: This national park was named after Mt. McKinley’s native name. It stretches out to 6-million acres of land with a host of geological features. It is also known for its grizzly bears, moraines, wolves and moose.
Glacier Bay National Park: This is another notable attraction in Alaska, which is located west of Juneau. This park and preserved area is the purest showcase of Alaska’s beauty. You will find various wildlife species within the park.
Northern Lights: This is one of the biggest attractions in Alaska, especially during September to April. The Fairbanks area provides some of the best vantage points for viewing the aurora borealis.
Where I’ve Been to in Alaska
Denali National Park
Koubk Valley National Park
Gates of the Arctic National Park