Want a destination that feels far-flung but close to home at the same time? Head north to Alaska -- the spectacular wilderness is unlike anything you’ll see in the lower 48; plus, it’s still an easy, no-passport-required trip.
What to See and Where to Stay
The South Central region of Alaska is the best place to stay since it’s got everything, from wildlife and wilderness to cities like Anchorage, all in one spot. Downtown Anchorage (Anchorage.net, 907-278-4118) makes a great home base, with happening nightlife and fantastic restaurants featuring only-in-Alaska eats (halibut tacos!). Bed-and-breakfasts abound in Anchorage. To find the best options, check out the Anchorage Bed & Breakfast Association (907-272-5909), which thoroughly vets its members and can answer any and all your questions. We recommend the romantic Copper Whale Inn (907-258-7999), with amazing views and a prime location (an easy walk into downtown or the coastal trail). Drive down to Portage Glacier -- it’s one of the most scenic road trips you’ll ever take. Stop off at Beluga Point to try to spot white whales and then head on to the breathtaking glaciers.
The most popular way to see Alaska is by cruise ship. (For more info and tips, head to AlaskaCruises.com.) Hopping from point to point by boat is a fabulous way to experience the state’s wild shoreline and sea life (whale watching from deck is a popular activity). Off the ship, you can book amazing and unique Alaskan excursions. See the state by helicopter or small plane, or go dog sledding (on sleds fitted with wheels in the summertime!), kayaking, or hiking. Your other big choice is whether to go through the Inside Passage (which hits popular areas like Juneau and Skagway) or the Gulf of Alaska (which encompasses Anchorage by way of Whittier). Both megaships and smaller ships sail Alaska’s seas -- though the smaller ships are more intimate, they tend to be pricier.
The Best Time to Go
Summer’s the peak season in Alaska, and it’s easy to see why. The climate’s much more temperate, so it’s comfortable to get out and about. That said, if you go in winter, you’ll find amazing discounts at places that are normally pricey, like the posh Hotel Captain Cook (907-276-6000). Prices also tend to be higher in cities like Anchorage during the world famous Iditarod (907-376-5155). This annual cross-Alaska dogsled race kicks off from Anchorage in March, and hotels that are near the action tend to fill up fast.
Temperate weather also applies to cruises: June through August is prime tourist season on the high seas. Your best bet whether by land or by sea: Go during the shoulder seasons rather than the high season (early May or late September through October is ideal).
The Best Ways to Save
Public transit and cabs are definitely lacking in Anchorage, so you’ll need to rent a car. Rates vary according to the season (they’re most expensive in the summertime), but an easy way to save year-round is to take a cab or reserve a shuttle ride into Anchorage, then rent a car once you’re downtown. It’ll save you a decent chunk of change since you’ll skip the airport and facility taxes. You might also consider renting a car for excursions and then hoofing it or renting bikes (both totally viable options) when you’re downtown.
If you’re cruising Alaska, doing a little extra homework can save you some serious dough. Yes, it’s tempting to just let the cruise operators take care of everything (especially when you’ve already got a wedding to plan!), but little things can make a big difference. Read through all the info when you compare prices so you won’t be surprised by anything in the fine print (for example, included gratuity for the ship’s crew). Research and book tour excursions directly through the tour operators rather than through the cruise line. And for everything else, book as early as possible: You’ll often save a bundle by booking by mid-February before the big boats start to fill up.
-- Kate Wood
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