Alaska is one of the most unique states in the whole of North America, with everything from stunning landscapes and beautiful creatures to a sense of serene calmness that will take your breath away. We don’t think it’ll take much convincing for you to want to pay this state a visit because it sells itself.
But how can you go about visiting this stunning state if you’re limited on time? And if your time is indeed limited, what should you prioritise? Here are a few ideas to get you going.
Four ways to see Alaska if you’re limited on time
1. Take a quick cruise
A lot of people think of cruising as this slow, sedate thing that takes up a lot of time, but that doesn’t have to be the case. You can optimize paid time off by taking a quick cruise or if you want to cover a large area over a week, try flying into Seattle, exploring the PNW for a few days and then hop on a cruise. There are plenty of cruises that take a few days or less. While you’re at it, spend some time looking into the different types of cruises to find the right kind for you.
2. Fly into Juneau
If time is truly of the essence, your best option is to fly into Juneau airport and to explore from there, as it has easily the best transport links across the whole of Alaska. Of course, if you plan to fly then you’ll want to pack as light as you can so that you have room to bring souvenirs back. This is especially true if you plan to visit some of the creative boutiques that parts of Juneau are known for.
3. Rent a car
Once you get to Alaska, you still need to find a way to get around. You’ll be alright with public transport if you’re just sticking to the state capital, but if you want to head off the beaten path and to discover the true Alaska then you’re going to need transport. Renting a car in Alaska is a little different than it is elsewhere, because you’ll want to make sure that you’re getting a vehicle with four-wheel drive and snow tires, especially during the cooler months.
4. Ask the locals
You’ve probably heard that old joke that runs along the lines of, “What does Jane think of the capital of the northernmost state? Do you know, I’ll ask her.” Don’t try this joke on the locals as they’ll probably give you a funny look, but do consider asking Alaskan natives for some ideas of where to visit. If you don’t have any Alaskan friends, you can always try asking people on an online forum. Better bet- leave some time in your itinerary for going rogue! My favorite way to travel is to pop into a local cafe or book store and ask the staff for some recommendations!
Conclusion
Now that you know how to go about heading off on a quick little trip to Alaska, the next step is for you to start planning. Alaska boasts one of the most beautiful landscapes and the wildlife is prevalent; it’s by far a super rewarding experience and a location I’d recommend to everyone. So what are you waiting for? If you’re limited on time, you’d better get started straight away!