September 20, 2022By: mcameron
What better way to spend a long, dark Alaska winter night than by telling stories? Storytelling is woven into the culture of Alaska, thanks in large part to the rich traditions created by Alaska’s Native peoples. For many generations, Alaska Natives have passed stories down through generations. Some tell origin stories about how certain aspects of the world came to be. Others act as lessons that reinforce a tribe’s cultural values. All have contributed to a considerable pantheon of mythical creatures that you might encounter in Alaska. Whether you’re wandering the shoreline, paddling a lake, walking down a dock, strolling in the woods—all those classic...
Read MoreSeptember 7, 2022By: mcameron
What’s piqued your interest about living off-grid in Alaska? Is it the feeling of freedom—the knowledge that you’re completely independent? Is it the fact that you can choose to live absolutely anywhere, even in the middle of the wilderness? Is it that sense of pride that comes from self-sufficiency? Whatever first attracted you to the idea of living off the grid in Alaska, there comes a time to stop dreaming and start planning. In other words, let’s talk about exactly what you need to live off the grid in Alaska. We’ll cover five basic necessities—and the not-so-basic versions of each that can make your life...
Read MoreJune 20, 2022By: mcameron
Life in Alaska is often about extremes—extreme temperatures, extreme wildlife experiences, extreme lifestyles. Perhaps that’s what makes Alaska such a prime setting for reality television. Whatever the reason, reality shows tend to dominate the Alaska television landscape—with one notable exception. If you want to dip your toe into Alaska life—through the lens of commercial television, of course—check out the following eleven television shows. You’ll have to decide for yourself how close to “reality” they come. That said, they do represent the colorful kaleidoscope of people, occupations, and lifestyles you’ll encounter in the Last Frontier. Northern Exposure Comedy – Genre 1990-95 – Years DVD – Where...
Read MoreMay 9, 2022By: mcameron
Ketchikan got its start as a Tlingit fishing settlement. Its abundant salmon population and nearby mines attracted a few additional arrivals to the area. However, it was the Klondike Gold Rush that brought big changes to Ketchikan and kicked off the town’s expansion. Today, Ketchikan has a population of about ~8,200 and a reputation as a tight-knit, welcoming community. Many are attracted to Ketchikan for its breathtaking scenery and its year-round arts scene, fostered by a burgeoning creative community. 141 inches of rain per year Still others come to Ketchikan to enjoy much milder winters than Alaska’s more extreme destinations. However, Ketchikan is also well...
Read MoreApril 18, 2022By: mcameron
What is it like to live in Alaska? Take it from us: It’s unlike anywhere else you’ve ever lived. We’ve got glaciers, moose walking down the street, punishing yet hauntingly beautiful winters, sunshine in the middle of the night, incredible fishing, pristine landscapes, and plenty of wide-open land to explore. However, it’s one thing to read about what life is like in Alaska and it’s another to actually see it. In our opinion, the best way to know what Alaska life is like is to make a visit. The second-best way is to tap into the below list of Alaska-focused YouTube channels. Through these YouTubers,...
Read MoreJanuary 31, 2022By: mcameron
A spirit of self-reliance is practically a requirement for moving to Alaska. If you’re considering a solo move to the Last Frontier, you obviously share in that spirit. Rest assured that you’ll find plenty of like-minded folks in Alaska. That said, moving to Alaska alone isn’t always easy. To help you make a smooth transition—and increase your chances of making a move that sticks—we’ve compiled these eight tips for solo moves. They’ll set you up for happy, fulfilled, and warm (!) life in Alaska—and maybe even the start of the life you’ve always dreamed of. #1: Take Alaska on a Test Drive When you’re considering a big, bold move to a place like Alaska, it’s tempting...
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