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20 Interesting Facts and Trivia on Alaska

Did you know? Alaska is the largest state in the U.S.! Covering over 663,000 square miles, it's bigger than Texas, California, and Montana combined!
Want to see the Northern Lights? Alaska is one of the best places globally, especially in towns like Fairbanks and Anchorage during winter months. Traveler Tip: Dress warmly and check aurora forecasts for the best viewing.
Climb Denali! The highest peak in North America at 20,310 feet, offering thrilling adventures for hikers and climbers. Traveler Tip: Book guided tours and check for permits if you're planning an expedition.
Wildlife Awaits! Spot grizzly bears, moose, bald eagles, and whales, making Alaska a nature enthusiast's dream. Traveler Tip: Remember to keep a safe distance and respect wildlife habitats.
Explore Glacier Bay National Park with its massive glaciers and rich marine life, best accessible by boat tours and cruises.
Set Sail on an Alaskan Cruise! Offering breathtaking views of glaciers and coastal wildlife. Traveler Tip: Book early to secure spots on excursions and for special onboard events.
The Salmon Capital offers incredible fishing opportunities for beginners and experts alike. Traveler Tip: Obtain a fishing license and consider hiring a local guide to maximize your catch.
Discover Tongass National Forest, the largest in the U.S. with stunning old-growth forests. Traveler Tip: Bring rain gear, as this area receives significant rainfall.
The Inside Passage features beautiful islands and charming towns like Ketchikan and Juneau, perfect for kayaking and exploring.
Visit Kenai Fjords National Park for its towering glaciers and abundant sea life. Traveler Tip: Opt for a guided boat tour to see remote areas and wildlife.
Whale Watching at its best with humpback, gray, and orca whales along the coastline. Traveler Tip: Visit in spring or early summer for the highest chances of sightings.
Drive the Alaska Highway, an iconic road trip stretching over 1,390 miles from British Columbia. Traveler Tip: Plan stops at local attractions and rest areas for a comfortable journey.
Experience the Midnight Sun! Some areas enjoy 24 hours of daylight in summer. Traveler Tip: Use blackout curtains to ensure restful sleep.
Embrace the Polar Night during winter, where northern areas have weeks without sunrise. Traveler Tip: Consider taking part in winter sports and indoor cultural activities to make the most of the season.
Taste Alaskan King Crab, a world delicacy that's freshest in local restaurants.
Explore Gold Mining History and pan for gold at sites like Crow Creek Mine.
Beach in Alaska? Absolutely! Homer Spit offers a unique seaside experience. Traveler Tip: Check local weather and tides before visiting.
Visit Historic Sitka for a taste of Russian and Native Alaskan heritage.
Kodiak Island offers unforgettable encounters with its giant bears and pristine wilderness.
Catch the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, celebrated annually for its adventurous spirit.

BEST WAYS TO TOUR IRELAND

Irish Road Signs Can Be Confusing

Ireland offers many rich experiences and with the right logistics visitors can enjoy historic cities, charming towns, traditional pubs, scenic coastal routes, and some of the most famous attractions in the world. It is especially appealing for couples, families, private groups, alumni trips, and travelers who want a balance of guided touring and independent exploration.

Best ways to tour Ireland are:

Motorcoach on a guided tour
Private driver
Self-Drive
Rail (most routes begin or end in Dublin)
A combination of some or all of above

Best Ireland Itinerary Lengths

6-8 Days to see Dublin and a side trip
9-12 Days to see much of Ireland at a comfortable pace
14 to 16 Days to tour the entire island highlights, including Northern Ireland

TOP IRELAND DESTINATIONS

Belfast, Northern Ireland

Blarney Castle - Credit to Tourism Ireland

Cork is a vibrant southern city with a strong food scene, rich history, and easy access to southwest Ireland. Top attractions include Blarney Castle, the English Market, and nearby Cobh. Cork is also a gateway to scenic coastal touring and is a favorite for travelers who want a mix of city life, heritage, and countryside access.

Cork, Ireland

Blarney Castle - Credit to Tourism Ireland

County Clare and the Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

Dan at Cliffs of Moher

County Clare is one of the most important stops on the Wild Atlantic Way and is best known for the Cliffs of Moher. Travelers also enjoy the Burren, charming villages, and scenic coastal drives. This area is ideal for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone who wants to experience Ireland’s dramatic Atlantic coastline.

Dublin, Ireland

Dublin is Ireland’s capital and largest city, home to roughly 25 percent of the country’s population. It is the nation’s main transportation hub for international flights, Irish Rail, and major road connections, making it the best starting point for many Ireland itineraries.

Visitors come for Trinity College, the Book of Kells, the Guinness Storehouse, Temple Bar, and Dublin’s lively cultural scene.

Puglia & Matera, Italy

The Puglia region is the sun-soaked heel of Italy’s boot, is loved for its whitewashed hill towns, crystal-clear Adriatic and Ionian coastlines, and relaxed, authentic feel. Base yourself in charming seaside towns like Polignano a Mare or Monopoli, or among the iconic trulli cone-shaped houses of Alberobello, to enjoy slow evenings of seafood, local wines, and passeggiata along atmospheric streets.

Puglia pairs beautifully with a visit to Matera, just across the regional border, where ancient cave dwellings (the Sassi) tumble down the hillside and glow golden at sunset. Together, Puglia and Matera offer a less-crowded, deeply local alternative to Italy’s classic routes, ideal for travelers who value coastal beauty, history, and authentic southern Italian culture.

TOP ITALY DESTINATIONS

Here is a, traveler-friendly snapshot of Italy’s most popular regions and cities so you can picture where each place fits into your trip. From classic hubs like Rome, Florence, and Venice to coastal gems such as the Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre, and farther-flung favorites like Puglia, Sicily, and the Dolomites, you’ll see what each area is known for and how they pair together. Have fun reviewing and the let us know your preferences and we can match or design a custom trip with insider experiences that checks all your boxes.

Amalfi Coast & Southern Coastlines, Italy

The Amalfi Coast is famous for its dramatic cliffs, pastel villages, and panoramic sea views. Popular bases include Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, and Sorrento (which also works well for day trips to Pompeii and Capri). Expect winding roads, stairs, and stunning terraces overlooking the water.

This area is best for clients who prioritize scenery, boutique hotels, and leisurely days on boats or beaches. It works especially well in combination with Naples, Capri, or a few days in Rome at the beginning or end of the trip.

Cinque Terre & Ligurian Coast, Italy

The Cinque Terre is a string of five colorful fishing villages perched on cliffs above the Ligurian Sea, known for dramatic coastal views, terraced vineyards, and scenic walking trails between the towns. Popular bases like Monterosso al Mare (best for beaches) and Vernazza (classic harbor views) make it easy to enjoy the sea, local trattorias, and sunset aperitivo.

Nearby along the Ligurian coast, elegant Portofino, Santa Margherita Ligure, and historic Genoa are great add-ons, offering yacht-filled harbors, waterfront promenades, and easy train links to Florence and Pisa. This area pairs especially well with Tuscany or the northern lakes for a balanced itinerary of countryside, coast, and culture.

Dolomites & Northern Alps, Italy

Milan is Italy's fashion and design capital, with major highlights such as the Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and Leonardo's Last Supper. It is a practical gateway city with strong rail and flight connections, often used as an entry or exit point.

Nearby Lake Como offers a more relaxed lakeside escape, with pretty towns such as Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio. This pairing works well for clients who enjoy city culture and shopping balanced with scenic downtime on the water.

Puglia & Matera, Italy

TOP ITALY DESTINATIONS

Amalfi Coast & Southern Coastlines, Italy

Cinque Terre & Ligurian Coast, Italy

Dolomites & Northern Alps, Italy

Puglia & Matera, Italy

Rome (Lazio Region), Italy

Rome, the capital of Italy and the heart of the Lazio region, is a timeless destination where ancient history, art, and culture come together. Known as the “Eternal City,” Rome is home to world-famous landmarks, walkable historic streets, and unforgettable experiences at every turn, including the Vatican and its renowned treasures.

The Lazio region adds even more appeal with scenic lakes, thermal spas, rolling hills, and beautiful countryside. From panoramic views at Villa Borghese to the charm of Rome’s old city center, this is a destination that invites travelers to explore, linger, and experience the best of Italy.

Sicily, Italy

Sicily is Italy's largest island, known for its dramatic coastlines, ancient Greek and Roman sites, and lively food culture. Key bases often include Palermo, Taormina, Syracuse/Ortigia, and the wine country around Etna or Marsala. Clients can combine beach days with visits to hill towns, archaeological parks, and volcanic landscapes.
Ideal for travelers who enjoy history, food and wine, and a slower-paced Mediterranean vibe. Sicily pairs well with mainland stays if you allow for extra transit time, or it can stand alone as a 7–14 day trip.

Tuscany, Florence & Central Hill Towns

Tuscany offers rolling vineyards, cypress-lined lanes, and medieval hill towns like Siena, San Gimignano, and Montepulciano. Many trips combine a stay in Florence for art and culture with several nights in the countryside for winery visits, cooking classes, and scenic drives.
This region is ideal for clients who enjoy food and wine, relaxed pacing, and countryside stays in villas or agriturismos. Tuscany also pairs well with Umbria or the Cinque Terre for clients who want both countryside and coast.

Venice & Verona, Italy

Venice is a compact, walkable city built on canals, best experienced by staying in the historic center. Highlights include wandering the backstreets, visiting St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, and gliding along the Grand Canal by vaporetto or private water taxi. Plan extra time simply to get lost and enjoy quiet campos, neighborhood wine bars, and views of the lagoon at sunrise or sunset.

Nearby Verona makes an excellent day trip or add-on to a Venice stay. Famous as the setting for Shakespeare’s "Romeo and Juliet," it charms visitors with its Roman arena (still used for summer opera), elegant piazzas, and riverside views along the Adige. Travelers often spend one or two nights here to enjoy relaxed evenings in local trattorias, strolls through the historic center, and an easy pace that pairs beautifully with the more bustling energy of Venice.

Anchorage

Anchorage is Alaska’s largest city and an ideal starting/ending point for many Alaska vacations. It is inland and easily reached by air, with additional access by motorcoach, car, and the Alaska Railroad for certain itineraries. Visitors enjoy museums, local dining, cultural experiences, and easy connections to wilderness adventures. Anchorage blends urban comfort with a strong sense of Alaska’s rugged beauty, making it a practical and appealing base for cruise tours and custom land vacations.

College Fjord

College Fjord is a spectacular glacier-filled destination best experienced by cruise ship in Prince William Sound. This remote fjord is known for its dramatic ice formations, mountain scenery, and breathtaking photo opportunities. Travelers come here to witness towering glaciers and calm icy waters surrounded by pristine wilderness. Because access is primarily by water, College Fjord is one of Alaska’s most memorable scenic highlights for cruise travelers seeking dramatic natural beauty.

Denali National Park

Denali National Park is one of Alaska’s most celebrated destinations and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Home to North America’s tallest peak, the park offers vast wilderness, dramatic scenery, and exceptional wildlife viewing. Travelers may see bears, moose, caribou, and Dall sheep while taking in the scale of this remarkable landscape. Denali is a must-see for anyone seeking a true Alaska adventure filled with beauty, solitude, and unforgettable mountain views.

Fairbanks

Fairbanks showcases Alaska’s interior charm, history, and northern character. Known for its gold rush heritage and broad open landscapes, it offers a different perspective from Alaska’s coastal destinations. Visitors enjoy cultural attractions, seasonal experiences, and a chance to explore deeper into the state’s heartland. Fairbanks is especially appealing for travelers who want to experience Alaska beyond the shoreline and add variety to their itinerary with a richer sense of place. Fairbanks is perfectly positioned as one of the best places to see the Northern Lights.

Glacier Bay National Park

Glacier Bay National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic natural wonders in Alaska. Only accessible via plane or sea by licensed access. Famous for massive glaciers, mountain scenery, and abundant marine wildlife, it offers an unforgettable experience for cruise travelers. Visitors may witness glacier calving, spot whales and seals, and admire the dramatic contrast of ice and sea. Glacier Bay is one of Alaska’s most powerful and rewarding destinations, especially for nature lovers.

Hubbard Glacier

Hubbard Glacier is one of the largest and most impressive tidewater glaciers in North America. Its towering blue ice and frequent calving create a dramatic natural spectacle that leaves travelers in awe. The glacier is a favorite stop for cruise guests and photographers who want to witness Alaska’s icy power up close. Hubbard Glacier is a standout destination for those seeking one of the most memorable glacier experiences in the state.

Icy Strait Point

Icy Strait Point offers a distinctive Alaska experience rooted in coastal scenery, Native heritage, and outdoor adventure. This destination is known for its authentic character and relaxed atmosphere, making it a favorite among travelers seeking something meaningful and less crowded. Guests enjoy cultural experiences, wildlife opportunities, and scenic shoreline views. Icy Strait Point is an excellent stop for visitors who appreciate a balance of adventure, heritage, and natural beauty.

Juneau, Alaska

Juneau, Alaska’s capital, is surrounded by mountains, water, and glacier-fed landscapes. It offers a wonderful combination of nature, sightseeing, and city life, making it one of the state’s most popular destinations. Travelers enjoy glacier views, whale watching, tram rides, shopping, and dining. Juneau feels both accessible and dramatic, giving visitors a chance to experience Alaska’s beauty in a compact and rewarding setting. It is a favorite for cruise travelers and explorers alike.

TOP ALASKA DESTINATIONS

Anchorage

College Fjord

Denali National Park

Fairbanks

TOP ALASKA DESTINATIONS

Anchorage

College Fjord

Denali National Park

Fairbanks

Ketchikan, Alaska

Ketchikan is a coastal destination reached by cruise ship or air and is often called "Alaska’s First City" and the "Salmon Fishing Capitol". Known for its colorful waterfront, Native heritage, totem poles, and fishing culture, Ketchikan is a lively and scenic port. Visitors can explore shops, museums, and cultural sites, or enjoy wildlife and water-based excursions. Its lush surroundings and strong cultural identity make Ketchikan one of the most popular and welcoming Alaska cruise stops.

Mt. McKinley, Alaska

Mount McKinley, officially known as Denali, is inland and typically seen by train, motorcoach, car, scenic flight, or from select land tours when weather permits. Measuring to a height of 20,310 ft, it is the tallest peak in North America and one of Alaska’s most iconic landmarks. Travelers hope for clear skies to witness its majestic scale. Whether viewed from the ground or from the air, this mountain creates a dramatic and unforgettable highlight for any Alaska itinerary.

Prince William Sound, Alaska

Prince William Sound is best accessed by cruise ship, day boat, or small vessel tour and is known for calm waters, glaciers, fjords, and abundant marine life. The sound offers one of the most peaceful and scenic experiences in Alaska. Visitors may see icebergs, whales, seabirds, and mountain reflections in the water. It is a beautiful destination for travelers who want glacier viewing and serene coastal scenery in a remote wilderness setting.

Skagway, Alaska

Skagway is a coastal town reached by cruise ship or air and is famous for its Gold Rush history and scenic rail access. Visitors can walk through the historic downtown, ride the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, or explore nearby mountain landscapes. Skagway offers a blend of history, scenery, and adventure that appeals to cruise travelers and rail enthusiasts alike. It remains one of Alaska’s most charming and popular port stops.

Talkeetna, Alaska

Talkeetna is inland and can be reached by train, car, or motorcoach from Anchorage or Denali itineraries. This small town has a frontier feel and is popular for its mountain views, flightseeing tours, and relaxed local atmosphere. Many travelers stop here on the way to Denali or as part of an Alaska rail journey. Talkeetna offers a more intimate look at Alaska life and is a favorite for visitors seeking charm, scenery, and adventure.

Tracy Arm, Alaska

Tracy Arm is a narrow fjord best seen by cruise ship or small expedition vessel and is known for steep cliffs, waterfalls, floating ice, and dramatic glaciers. This remote waterway creates one of the most photogenic scenes in Alaska. Travelers often enjoy the journey as much as the destination, with wildlife sightings and towering natural scenery at every turn. Tracy Arm is a must-see for those who want a classic glacier and fjord experience.

Icy Strait Point

Glacier Bay National Park

Hubbard Glacier

Juneau, Alaska

Katmai National Park, Alaska

Katmai National Park is best reached by plane or floatplane, followed by boat or guided excursion, making it one of Alaska’s most remote and exciting destinations. It is world-famous for bear viewing, especially at Brooks Falls, where brown bears gather to fish. Katmai is a true wilderness experience with volcanic landscapes, salmon-filled rivers, and extraordinary wildlife viewing. This destination is ideal for adventurous travelers seeking one of the most iconic bear viewing experiences in Alaska.

Kenai Peninsula - Seward, Alaska

The Kenai Peninsula and Seward are accessible by car, motorcoach, train, or cruise tour, making them one of Alaska’s most versatile regions. Seward serves as a gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park and offers glacier cruises, wildlife viewing, harbor scenery, and access to outdoor adventure. The area is known for its mountains, fjords, and marine life. It is an excellent choice for travelers who want a scenic, active, and classic Alaska experience.