Where to go in the world, how best to get there, where to stay, and what to take with you. Covering every aspect of travel to most countries in the world.
Just a quick little post about Visas. As you read through my posts about the various places in the world, you'll probably see that when it comes to visas I always refer you to one visa service site:
I have no referral or affiliate agreement with these guys, it's just that they offer the most comprehensive advice for every citizen who may need a visa to go somewhere they fancy visiting.
I received a comment not so long ago that caused me a little bit of concern. It was on the post about Nauru. The comment pointed out in a roundabout way that I had assumed that every reader knew how to navigate through the Visahq website.
Well, it shows how wrong I was! On the face of it the website looks like it is just for US citizens. I can assure you that it isn't. When you land on the home page you will see a couple of tabs, the one tab that catches your eye is the one that says "US Citizens" and the reason why it stands out is that it smack bang in the middle of the tab bar! On first glance, I have to admit that it really does look like the website is for US citizens. However, if you look to the left of this particular tab you will see another tab saying "Visas".
Now, if like me you are not a US citizen, click on this tab instead. This is the gateway to finding out about visa requirements for every country in the world. They are very thorough indeed. Give you an example, when I was researching for The Gambia post I found out that although I was a British Citizen, I needed a visa for The Gambia because I live in Gibraltar. If I lived in the UK, all I needed was my passport and a return ticket!
So, there you have it. www.visahq.com really quite impressed me and that is why I recommend these guys. Try them out, this sort of info is free on their website.
I think that like me you will be quite impressed with their global coverage.
Background.
The Republic of Nauru is the smallest republic in the world. Sure, there are smaller countries, like my own, but they are either monarchies or dependent territories of other nations. This one of the things that makes Nauru quite unique.
The country does not have an official capital. The largest settlement is Yaren and it is the de facto capital.
Nauru was formerly known Pleasant Island.
The country is a small island in the South Pacific Ocean. Nauru lies South of The Marshall Islands. Its nearest neighbour is Banaba Island in Kiribati which is 300 km to the east.
After the Vatican, Nauru is the second least populated country with less than 10,000 people. The total area of this tiny country is just 21 sq km (about 8.1 sq mi).
Nauru was annexed and claimed as a colony by the German Empire in the late 19th century. After WW I this tiny country became a League of Nations Mandate administered by Australia, New Zealand and the UK. Nauru's fortunes didn't fare much better when it was occupied by the Japanese in WW II. Nauru then became a UN trusteeship after the war, and finally gained independence only in 1968.
Up until 2011, The mainstay of the economy was strip mining of abundant phosphates which were primarily to Australia, New Zealand and South Korea as well as other countries. As the phosphate deposits were running out this small island nation then became for a short while a "tax haven" and a money laundering centre.
Nauru is heavily dependent on foreign aid and development finance, and it is widely thought that unemployment is running at about 90%. Unlike many areas that have this sort of level of unemployment, Nauru is relatively safe and the country is renowned for its warmth and friendliness.
As Nauru lies 24kms south of the Equator, the climate is tropical with rain falling between November and February.
What to do and see.
Nauru is so small that it takes less than an hour to drive right round it! The 19 km "Beltway" ring road circles the island and the only traffic lights are used to stop the traffic to allow the plane to cross the road to get to the airport terminal. The airport runway cuts across 3 kms of the 19km route. In fact the aircraft crossing is a favourite souvenir snapshot taken by visitors. You can also hire bikes from Capelle and Partners, the largest local supermarket, to do the same trip. Keep an eye out for animals and pedestrians while on the beltway. The car trip will take about 25 minutes non-stop, and the bike will get you round in about 2-3 hours. Your can also walk round in about 4-6 hours. There is a lot of nice scenery and plenty of views.
Nauru Parliament Building
Exploring the main settlement and capital, Yaren where you can see the remains of Japanese guns, bunkers and pillboxes left over from WWII. A visit to the parliamentary buildings is also a worthwhile sight to see
Hiking into the interior of Nauru will give you some idea of what environmental damage can be done by extensive strip mining. Much of the native flora and fauna was destroyed by the phosphate mining operations, and it can be understood why Nauru took the Australian Government to court for damages to its nation during the height of phosphate mining. For the most part, there are an abundance of limestone pinnacles which were once covered by phosphates. Some of these pinnacles can be 15m in height. You can also climb to the highest point on Nauru, Command Ridge, which is 71m above sea level. About 80% of Nauru's environment has been stripped and devastated by the phosphate mining industry, and it has been estimated that 40% of marine life has been wiped out by the effect of silting and phosphate run off.
Buada Lagoon
The Buada Lagoon is the only body of water on the island. It is very picturesque and is situated in the lower middle of Nauru. The lagoon is freshwater and surrounded on all sides by dense palm trees and other vegetation, you can walk all the way round it as there is a tarred road that encircles it. The water is, however very dirty and totally unsuitable for swimming in or entering.
The national sport, Australian Rules Football is a must see. The local teams battle it out all Saturday at the Linkbelt Oval sports field and is a popular event.
Nauru is surrounded by coral reefs, so the scuba diving and snorkeling is quite spectacular. It goes without saying that fishing is very popular, drawing many fishermen to try their hand as well as attend fishing conventions.
The only department store and the largest business in Nauru is Capelle and Partners, and is situated at the top of the island in Ewa Province, it provides for a welcome break in your circumnavigation of the country.
Nauru Beach
Nauru is a Pacific Island nation and as such you will find that the beaches are to put it bluntly, stunning. Having said that, be aware of the dangers of some of the marine life that lives around the reefs and also of strong currents. Take the advice of the local people, remember, they live there and will certainly know more about the sea than you will. The best area for tropical beaches is in Anabare Bay which is literally up the road from Yaren on the eastern side of the island. There is also the Anabare Harbour project to have a look at, if you get bored of the sea, sand and sunshine.
Currency.
Nauru uses the Australian Dollar for its currency. Cards are very very rarely accepted and there are no ATMs in Nauru. Cash is king in this country.
Language.
The official language is Nauruan, however, English is very widely spoken and understood, it used for most government and commercial purposes.
Visa requirements.
All non Nauru citizens require visas. Visas must be obtained before arriving in Nauru. As you might imagine there are not that many Nauru embassies around the world. However for details about embassy location and prices just visit:
Accommodation is quite limited for the visitor. There are at present only two hotels. The Menen Hotel which is about 2-3km outside Yaren. It is a resort hotel situated on the eastern side of the island over looking the beaches. The hotel boasts 2 bars and a restaurant. For the latest tariffs and bookings e-mail:
The other hotel is the slightly cheaper Od-n Aiwo Hotel which is "in town" (Yaren) not far from the airport.
Again the hotel boasts 2 bars and a restaurant, but it also has a convenience store for daily needs. The latest tariffs and bookings can be obtained by e-mail:
Nauru is VERY remote. The country is served by just one airline, the somewhat cutely named "Our Airline" which is Nauru's national carrier. The airline operates a scheduled service between Brisbane and Nauru. You will have to first fly to Brisbane, Australia then onwards to Nauru on "Our Airline"
For the best prices for flights and Brisbane hotel stopover tariffs just click on
And finally................................
Hardly anyone has ever heard of The Republic of Nauru, and coupled with the fact that it is very remote, it sadly holds the record in 2012 of being the least visited country in the world (Less than North Korea!) with about 200 visitors or so for the year.
Given its beauty, its people and where it is, this is a very great pity....
For the traveller that wants to see the real Pacific, Nauru has to right at the top of the list.
Background.
People of a certain age first heard of The Gambia and the Gambia River when Alex Haley's book "Roots" took the world by storm. There is, however, more to the smallest country on the African Continent than just a book published in the 1970s.
The Gambia gained independence from the UK in 1965, with its constitution being written in 1970. A military coup in 1994 banned all political activity and the constitution was suspended until fresh Presidential elections were held in 1996 and a new constitution was adopted along with parliamentary ballots in 1997.
The Gambia
This tiny (by African standards) country covers the flood plain of the navigable part of the Gambia River which is flanked by low hills. The highest point in The Gambia is just 53 metres above sea level. Apart from its 80 km coastline The Gambia is completely surrounded on three sides by Senegal. The two countries entered into a very short lived confederation, "Senegambia" between 1982 and 1989.
Things to do and see.
Endless hot sunny days are a big factor, however, there are so many places in the world that can claim the same sort of climate, so what else attracts people to Banjul, the capital of The Gambia? Well, Banjul and the rest of the Gambia really does go to great lengths to attract and please its visitors. The country has very little else that brings any significant revenue to the country. The other revenues are agricultural, peanuts, beeswax and palm oil production being the largest sectors, but the growing tourism sector is a truly treasured source of income.
Gambia Beaches
Beach holidays are the main choice of those that visit The Gambia. The coast around Banjul is a sun worshipper's paradise, with miles of golden sandy beaches, fringed with palm trees and the warm waters of the Atlantic to cool down in when all that sunbathing gets too much. Boat trips provide the chance to do some sea fishing or visits to the remoter parts of the coastline. Along the coast you will find luxory hotels that will cater for the visitor's every need.
There are also chances to get away from the beach areas as The Gambia does, as I've said before have more going for it than the book "Roots" and its beaches! The abundant wildlife in itself can also offer the more adventurous an alternative holiday, or just a day trip away from the beaches. The Gambia River stretches for about 500km in land, but a boat trip of just a couple of kilometres will reveal one of the world's most varied species of birdlife, the reason for this is that The Gambia's position on the migratory routes that many birds take to avoid the often harsh winters of northern Europe.
Crocodile, Gambia
Apart from the birds, there really is a true abundance of wildlife from crocodiles to antelope and several species of monkeys. You will need your binoculars and an eagle eye to spot the animals but I can assure you that they will be there, probably watching you back!
A trip up the Gambia River offers the chance to see the country "au naturel". Travellers can either visit rural villages and stay in camps or there are a number of hotels and lodges close by.
There are several areas of protected nature reserve in The Gambia, which include Abuko Nature Reserve as well as the Bijilo Forest Park, unofficially known as "Monkey Park" because of its large monkey population. This park is about 16-18 kms west of Banjul, again there are a number of hotels in the surrounding area. If you are a "birder", you'll be happy to learn that there are over 130 species of bird to be found in the Forest Park. Abuko Forest Reserve is a little further away, about 20 minutes drive from the main hotels. This reserve has been a protected area for just over 100 years and claims to be the nearest rain forest to mainland Europe and is easily the most popular tourist attraction with about 33,000 visitors per year. Apart from the birds and colourful flora, the wildlife here includes: baboon, various exotic lizards, crocodile and lion
Banjul.
Arch 22 Banjul
The capital of The Gambia is well worth a visit, just to experience the sights, the sounds and smells of a bustling, ever busy African city. One of the best places to shop is Albert Market. The market has quite literally everything from colourful fabrics, electrical goodies, fish, meat and touristy arts and crafts.It's wise to give yourself a couple of hours to get round and see everything, and just make sure your haggling skills are honed as with many places in the world, bargaining or haggling is like a national sport.
There are several drinks stalls and chop shops in the market so the weary can take a breather and recharge.
Gambia's main health facility, The Royal Victoria Teaching Hospital, not only provides medical treatment but also conducts daily two hour tours of its late 19th century and modern buildings! Now this can show how utterly dependent The Gambia is on the tourist dollar, or just how clever the health service is to be able to maintain public services! Now, a tour of a hospital is probably not very high up on a "to do" list, but the tour is very interesting, explaining in great detail the international teaching programme as well as research into malaria and hepatitis and other things. The tour is free but donations are welcome and gratefully received.
The Ferry Terminal, Banjul.
Designed by Senegalese Architect Pierre Goudiaby, Arch 22 was built to celebrate the military coup of July 1994. It stands at 35m high and is by far the tallest building in Banjul. The balcony which is open to the public wil give you great view of the city and the coast beyond. There is a cafe, souvenir shop and small museum that covers the coup d'etat.
The Ferry Terminal for the ferry to Barra, with the continuous chatter of waiting passengers, the noise of cargo handling and never ending motion of embarking and disembarking makes for a good experience for any one. Just be careful as this area is rife with pickpockets.
Word of warning.
As like anywhere else, there are a number of scams, designed to part visitors from their money. From hard luck stories and self declared friendship (having met you in a bar a couple of nights ago is a common one) to unwanted favours, be on your guard. so as not to be taken by these scams always be polite but firm and giving money is never really the wisest thing to do. Don't be overtly rude as this could cause you problems. It is very wise not to have anything to do with buying of drugs like marijuana, the likelihood is it is a scam, and also it is illegal.
Always ask before you take a photo of anyone. Some Gambians have certain beliefs about having their picture taken, especially by strangers.
Where to stay.
There are 40 hotels to stay in, in The Gambia, and not all in Banjul. From 1 star to the luxury 5 star hotel resorts on the Atlantic close. To find reviews, photos and the best tariffs for these hotels, and to securely book on line just click on:
Health requirements.
It's strongly recommended that you should have the following vaccinations before you go: Yellow Fever, Meningitis, Typhoid.
The Gambia is a Malaria area so anti-malaria tablets are an absolute must.
Visa requirements.
Citizens of various countries will require visas, while others may be given to stay for a maximum period of 3 months. To check what your visa requirements will be click on:
The Ninki Nanka
A Ninki Nanka is a legendary creature in West African folklore. On the whole the creature is described as reptilian and dragon-like.
By all accounts the Ninki Nanka lives in the swamps of Wes Africa, it is very large and very dangerous. It's said that if children disobey their parents and visit the swamps, they will be taken by the Ninki Nanka. The legend has been handed down orally from generation to generation. In fact the Senegalese group Toure Kunda recorded a song called Ninki Nanka in 1984.
The " J.T. Downes Memorial Gambia Expedition 2006" from the Centre for Fortean Zoology went to The Gambia to investigate the Ninki Nanka and take eye witness accounts from those who've claimed to have seen it.
Why the title? Well the thing about Liechtenstein is that it is very small. The principality of Liechtenstein has a total area of 160 sq kms. Liechtenstein is 2.5times the size of San Marino and 81 times larger than Monaco.
Background.
The Principality of Liechtenstein was founded in 1719 and is the last remnant of the Holy Roman Empire. It became a full sovereign state in 1806.
Liechtenstein is sandwiched between Austria to the east and Switzerland to the west. It is one of two doubly landlocked (landlocked by countries that are themselves landlocked) countries in the world, the other being Uzbekistan.
It is also the only country that is named after its ruling family. The current reigning Prince is H. S. H Prince Hans-Adam II. The Royal Family are popular and highly respected. However, it was until the 20th century that the Von Liechtenstein family made their official and permanent residence in the country. The Royal family still own tracts of landed property in Liechtenstein, Austria as well as other countries in Europe.
Up until WWI Liechtenstein had very close ties with Austria, but the carnage caused by the Great War made this tiny principality think its position over. Liechtenstein forged customs and currency union with Switzerland. This union has survived, and is still very much alive today.
Liechtenstein just like its neighbour Switzerland is a neutral country and Liechtensteiners are very proud of the fact that their country has never been physically involved in a battle or armed confrontation with an "enemy state"and many view their flag as a flag of peace.
Things to do and see.
Many a visitor to this tiny land think that all the attractions are in or around the capital Vaduz. In fact many just arrive in the capital, wonder around for a while, complain about the expense of the "tourist tat" (something that you will find in all capital cities!) and the lack of unspoiled countryside, then go home. Now that is a little unfair on themselves and very unfair on Liechtenstein! Liechtenstein is still divided along the "old country " lines of the upper and lower countries, the Oberland and Unterland.
The Unterland is the smaller of the two and is centred around the Eschnerberg, a hill right in the middle of the Rhine flood plain.
Schellenberg
coat of arms
Schellenberg can trace its settlement back to approximately 3000BC. With the background of the Liechtenstein, Austrian and Swiss Alps as well as the Rhine the village 700m above see level. Covering an area of just 355 hectares and with a population of 1000, Schellenberg is the smallest village in the country.
Liechtenstein's oldest building, the "Beidermann" a medieval wooden construct is now a museum open to the public. It's situated in the middle of the town and shows you exactly what life was like in the middle ages. As you can imagine, due its size Schellenberg is not easy to get lost in!
Ruggell
coat of arms
Ruggell is the most northerly settlement in Liechtenstein with a population of about 1700. It also claims to be the village at the lowest height above sea level. Ruggell is the country's largest producer of milk and dairy products.
The dairy industry has contracted over the years but Liechtensteiners being ever resourceful, have made a number of nature reserves from the spare land in the surrounding area which have proved to be very popular with nature lovers, hikers and cyclists.
Eschen
coat of arms
Eschen is the capital of the Schellenberg and with its very close neighbour Nendeln covers an area of 10 sq kms. Apart from the surrounding countryside the main attraction of these two villages is the fully working ceramics centre where visitors can see the whole process before their very eyes! Another worthwhile visit is to the fully working mill.
For the more outdoor types, Eschen offers a number of hiking routes, from rambling routes to the famous and historic "Hohenweg" pathway.
Over the past number of years Eschen and Nendeln have hosted music festivals which have started to grow in reputation around Europe and further afield.
Gamprin
coat of arms
Gamprin and Bendern lie in the southernmost part of Schellenberg. The name Gamprin originates from the Latin Aecampus Rheni when the Romans settled in the area of the Bendern church hill in approximately 15BC. There have been many finds of Roman artifacts dating back to these times which show a long established Roman presence in the district. The church hill provided the Roman garrison with a commanding view of the valley below.
It was in March 1699 that the church hill also played host to the first time that the men of the Unterland swore allegiance to the Prince of Liechtenstein. The Unique Mary-Lourdes Grotto is not far away on the way to the "Oberland".
Mauren
coat of arms
Mauren was first mentioned in 1179 and was called Muron at that time. The village was unimpressively known for many years for its production of winter turnips. In 1850 the parish council set the number of houses in the town to just 111 and banned building of new houses in the town, this proved a minor glich and the local people moved a little way down the road and started building and that is how the adjoining area of Schaanwald was born.
Peter Kaiser the famed historian and educationist was originally from Mauren and in the town centre stands a monument to him.
One of the most popular attractions of Mauren is the Birka Nature Reserve For Birds, and should be on the visiting list of any bird spotter. Take a little time out and visit the Weiherring leisure park where you can relax and unwind.
Schaan
coat of arms
Schaan is the largest village in Liechtenstein and is also the main hub of the national transport network, with a motorway to Switzerland and main railway station. All public transport passes through Schaan whether north south or east west bound!
St Lurentius Church
Railway enthusiasts will be glad to learn that as Schaan is approximately half way between Paris and Vienna, more often than not you will see the world famous Orient Express rumble through a level crossing or two on a very regular basis.
The town's main church,St Laurentius is a striking building in the local architectural style, and with a back drop the forests and foothills of the Alps Schaan offers the famous "Fasnacht" (Mardi Gras) where Liechtensteiners let their hair down and show how to do some serious partying. This all comes to a huge climax on the Sunday before the beginning of Lent in the Fasnachtsumzug (Fasnacht Carnival), the party goes on all night and there really is a lot to do, see, eat and drink.
Schaan also figures very largely in the Liechtenstein industrial sector, many international companies have set up in the area, taking advantage of the low tax economy.
Vaduz
coat of arms
SchlossVaduz
Vaduz is the capital of Liechtenstein. It is the seat of government and the residence of the Royal Family.the most striking building in Vaduz is the SchlossVaduz (Vaduz Castle) the official resiedence of the Prince of Liechtnstein. Overlooking the town from a craggy hilltop, it is not open to the public but it can be photographed from very close quarters.
Many international banks and accountancy companies are located in the capital again, like industry, to take advantage of the low tax economy. As a result, Valduz is a mecca for all serious shoppers, with world leading boutiques and brands dotted throughout the city. The other main attractions of this little city is cultural. Vaduz is home to The Liechtenstein Museum of Fine Arts, a major collection of masterpieces of various European masters. Vaduz is also home to the National Museum, The Liechtenstein University of Applied Sciences, The School of Music, The Ski Museum and The Postal Museum.
The Vaduz area is also noted for its fine wines and a meal in a Vaduz restaurant (of which there are many) will not be complete with out a bottle of local wine.
Triesenberg
coat of arms
If that is not enough then why not make your way to Triesenberg. The area is steep alpine landscape where even the football field is on stilts! Greater Triesenberg includes the Alpine resort of Malbun and Steg.
Malbun Ski Resort
Triesenberg commands quite breathtaking views of the area and most of the restaurants have all taken advantage of that fact. The town with its distinctive onion domed church is also the springtime gate way for alpine hiking. There is a wealth of history to be discovered and you should take the time to chat to the local people.
Malbun is the main resort for alpine skiing and ice skating while the nearby village of Steg offers nordic skiing.
Currency:
Liechtenstein uses the Swiss Franc as its official currency.
Visa requirements.
Visas are required by citizens of certain countries who wish to visit Liechtenstein. For a comprehensive review of what is required please visit:
Where to stay.
There are 35 hotels in Liechtenstein, ranging from the basic 1 star to the luxury 5 star ratings. For the best tariffs, photos and reviews as well as online booking just click on:
And finally...........
Liechtenstein is a very distinct country in its own right. Liechtensteiners are very proud of their country and their identity. Although German is the official language take very great care not to assume that just because Liechtensteiners are speaking German that they are German!
The standard of living and the cost of living is very high and some things will be expensive, be prepared!
This the third and final chapter of my coverage of Alaska. As many of you are aware, when the USA purchased Alaska from Russia for 2 cents per acre, the general feeling amongst Americans at the time was money not well spent. In fact Alaska was known as "Seward's Folly" after the Secretary of State that presided of the deal. How wrong they were! Alaska has proven to be anything but a waste of money. The State is the largest reserve of oil for the USA, supplying up to 3.5% of the country's daily needs, and if that is not enough, there are reserves of gold as well.
Trans-Alaska Pipeline.
Trans-Alaska Pipeline.
Some would say that the pipeline is an attraction in itself. When you consider the facts and the engineering involved, you would find it hard to disagree. The pipeline was completed in 1975 and carries oil from the oilfields around Prudhoe Bay to the port of Valdez, Alaska's northern most ice-free port. The pipeline stretches for 800 or so miles (1200 km) over some of the harshest terrains on earth and transports 735,000 barrels of oil every day, about 3.5% of the USA's daily oil consumption. The Trans-Alaska Pipeline is one of the largest pipelines in the world.
Far North Region.
Barrow is the northern most city in the USA. It is so far north that it gets 24 hour sun from sunrise on 10 May to sunset on 2 August every year. With evidence from around 500AD Barrow is quite possibly one of the oldest sites of human habitation in the USA. Before the settlers arrived, Barrow was known as and still is by the native peoples as Ukpaegvik which in the Inupiaq language means " The place where we hunt Snowy Owls". In fact hunting and gathering still features heavily in today's culture and economy of Barrow.
Barrow, Alaska.
In the summer months it's possible to view Polar Bears, Snowy Owls, Orca and Whales in the area. The traditions and culture of the Inupiat can be seen at the Inupiat Heritage Centre which offers arts and crafts such as baleen boats, carved ivory, masks and traditional parkas and fur mittens.
Other places of interest are the Cape Smythe Whaling and Trading Station, built in 1893 it is the oldest framed building in the Arctic. The Birnirk Archaeological Site which is made up of 19 dwelling mounds of the Birnirk culture which existed around 500-900 AD, and is considered to be a key link to the prehistoric cultures of Alaska and Canada.
How to get to Barrow.
Forget about driving! Barrow has daily scheduled flights to Anchorage.For times, prices and online bookings, just click on: www.globaltraveldeals.biz
Gateway To The Arctic National Park and Preserve, Alaska.
Coldfoot got its name way back in 1900 when the "Gold Rush" prospectors arrived. They apparently got "cold feet" and turned back so the story says. Today, it is one of the very few communities in the Far North region to be accessible by road. The "Haul" road makes its way to the far north to Deadhorse through this town. just be aware that the highway is mostly gravel and not paved.
Coldfoot serves as the stopping off point for the nearby "Arctic National Wildlife Refuge" and the awe inspiring "Gateway to The Arctic National Park and Preserve"
The Interior Region.
Fairbanks was founded in 1901, and is known as the "Gold Hearted City", due in part to its role in the 19th century Gold Rush. The city is a hive of activity whether summer or winter and there is never a shortage of things to do or see. With Creamer's Field nearby, birdwatchers will be able to see Canada Geese and other species of birds stopping over on their migration while the culture vultures can always visit the Alaska University's Museum of the North, where artifacts and other exhibits highlight Alaskan history, life and customs.
Ice Alaska.
If you happen to be in Fairbanks in February/March time you would not be disappointed if you visit "Ice Alaska" World Ice Art Championships. The competition attracts accomplished ice sculptors from around the world and the sculptures themselves are quite stunning to see during the day AND the night, the colours in the ice are quite breathtaking.
Now, maybe like me you thought that the back wheel paddle steamers were only to be found in the southern "Dixie" States of the US, but nothing could be further or north of the truth. The Chene River has its very own river steamer tour where you can while away the time seeing the Alaskan landscape and experiencing the traditional Alaskan culture. Or should that not take your fancy why not learn about panning for gold and learning how it was done during the Rush as well as how miners prospect nowadays. A visit to Gold Dredger No. 8 is where you can try your hand at panning for gold, and see how millions of Troy Ounces of gold were and still are extracted from the Alaskan soil.
Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights.
Fairbanks is inside what is known as the "Aurora Oval" and is an ideal place to see the "Northern Lights" or Aurora Borealis. The best time to see this natural phenomenon is from August to April, with an average of 8 in 10 nights of appearing, provided that the conditions are clear. Most locals advise to spend about 3 nights out looking, that way, more often than not you will see them.
One of the most popular winter pastimes in Alaska is the sport or art of dog mushing. Fairbanks is famous for it. There are quite a few operators who offer mushing from just a couple of hours to complete expeditions that can last for days. The choice is yours.
The "Gold Hearted City " hosts the unique Midnight Sun Baseball Game every year on the Summer Solstice Day. The game starts at 2230hrs and all the innings are played. In the 100 year history of the event the baseball park's floodlights have not had to be switched on once.
Where to stay:
Fairbanks is a cosmopolitan city and as such has many places to stay from 1 star motels to 4 star hotels to stay in. For reviews, photos, the best tariffs and on line booking just click on:
How to get there:
Fairbanks International Airport has regular scheduled flights to many destinations. For the best flights, times, prices and online bookings, just click on:
The State Capital of Alaska is the City of Juneau. The only thing is that you can't get to it by road. Like most towns in the South Eastern Panhandle the sheer sided valleys among which most of these communities nestle make road building either unbelievably expensive or just plain impossible. This region of Alaska is served by either air or by the Alaska Marine Highway, Alaska's ferry network.
The city of Juneau is compact and easily walkable. However be warned that Juneau is wet. The city has 1270mm of rainfall per year. Having said that, Juneau is in the only region of Alaska that has winter day time temperatures above freezing.
Mendelhall Glacier, Alaska.
The scenery around Juneau is quite breathtaking and it is well worth using the "Marine" highway. Not far from downtown Juneau is the 1.5 mile wide Mendelhall Glacier. This immense river of ice grinds its way down its valley and into a freshwater lake. The colours and sounds as well as the spectacle of this immense expanse of ice can be visited, flown around and landed upon. Just be aware that the helicopter ride does not come cheap, but those that have splashed out on it have said that it was worth every penny.
Where to stay:
Juneau has many motels and hotels to choose from. Ranging from 1star to 5 star, you will be able to see photos, the latest reviews, tariffs and book online just by clicking on:
How to get there:
Juneau International Airport has flights to the "lower 48" States of the US as well as international destinations. For airlines, best fares, availability and online booking, just click on:
Although Alaska is not joined to the other 48 States, it is part of the USA and therefore all US immigration requirements must be observed. To find out about visa requirements for the USA please visit the US embassy website in your country. The website is easy to navigate and is easily understandable.
And finally........
Alaska certainly wasn't a bad buy by the USA. If you do visit Alaska be prepared for its weather. Summer can be warm while the winter will be very very cold. Never take any chances in the winter as Mother Nature is unforgiving, even for the smallest mistakes. One little oversight or mistake in the winter could cost you your life. Always take the advice of the local population, remember they know Alaska far better than you do.
Many apologies to everyone! I have been in the process of moving into a new flat, and it has taken a little longer than first thought.
Alaska was bought off the Russians for 2 cents per acre at the very end of the 19th century. It has been American ever since. Despite that Russian influences still abound in the State and are very much in plain sight. No where is this more obvious that on the Aleutian Islands.
The Russian occupation of Alaska began in the 1700s when Russian explorers like Vitus Bering started to travel further into the area, and when fur traders began to settle on islands such as Unalaska, which is situated in the Aleutian Island archipelago.
These days, Unalaska offers tourist and visitors a glimpse of that era with the Russian Orthodox Cathedral of the Holy Ascension. Built in 1825, complete with red roofs, and green onion domes and a small churchyard, the church was declared a National Historic Landmark way back in 1970. It was restored in 1998, and now houses one of the largest collections of religious artifacts and icons in the USA.
Kodiak from the air
As the trade in furs developed more Russians settled in the area and the first permanent Russian settlement in Alaska was founded in 1784 by Gregory Shelikoff and his fur company on Kodiak Island. Eight years later the settlement was moved to the area where present day Kodiak is now situated
With its Russian street names (yes even now!) Kodiak still retains its Russian flavour and heritage. The Baronov Museum, a warehouse built in the 1790s by Alexander Baronov to store furs, is the oldest remaining Russian built structure in the State. The museum houses a fine collection of artifacts of Kodiak's time as a Russian settlement.
Other Russian themed attractions include the Holy Resurrection Russian Orthodox Church established in 1794 complete now with icons and references to Saint Herman, the first priest to be canonized in the USA. There is also the Veniaminov Research Institute Museum which displays bibles and icons used by the Orthodox missionaries in the 1800s.
An annual Kodiak event at Monks Lagoon celebrates the canonization of Father Herman and the Saint Herman's Orthodox Theological Seminary in Kodiak is named in his honour.
1799 in the middle of the Russian fur trade boom, Alexander Baranov, the successor to Gregory Shelikoff established another settlement called New Archangel which went onto become the capital of Russian America. Over the intervening years New Archangel lost its place as capital and evolved into the modern day city of Sitka.
Mount Edgecumbe. Sitka.
Sitka is located on the coast of Baranof Island. The city has one of the most dramatic backdrops of any place in the world, Mount Edgecumbe. Pride of the Sitka is St Michael's Cathedral, a bright blue, onion domed Russian Orthodox Church that dominates Sitka's skyline. Although the original cathedral built in 1844 was destroyed by fire in 1966, it was rebuilt and has an active congregation that still worships there today. The Cathedral houses many icons and relics that were rescued from the fire.
In the Lutheran cemetery the grave of Russian Princess Maksoutoff, the wife of Alaska's last Russian governor, Dimitri Maksoutoff. Russia's reign over Alaska was coming to an end. By the early 1800s Americans were starting to take more and more of the fur trade established by the Russians. In 1867 Russian America came to an end when the USA spent US$7,200,000 and bought Alaska.
Totem pole at Sitka National Historical Park. Alaska
The Russian Bishops House, now part of Sitka National Historical Park, is the oldest Russian building in Sitka. Built in 1842 for the Bishop Ivan Veniaminov, now Saint Innocentof the Orthodox Church,the house and surroundings have been restored to reflect its time as a school, chapel and residence.
The 107 acre Sitka National Historical Park interprets the site of the battle between the Tlingits and the Russians in 1804. Battles between the indigenous peoples and Russians were disastrous for the Alaska natives. The Tlingit people paid a heavy price for the foreign diseases and germs bought over by the Russians.
Where to stay:
There are numerous hotels, motels and B&Bs throughout the Aleutian Islands to find the best reviews and tariffs, just click on:
Lastly.....
Because of the heavy influence of Russia this post was supposed to give you some of the other side of Alaska.
In chapter 3 of Alaska I'll be looking at the other areas of this huge State.
