Alaskan Cruise

Vancouver is the largest city in Western Canada and third largest in the country overall. Located at the southwestern corner of the coastal province of British Columbia, it is well known for its majestic natural beauty, as it is nestled between the Coast Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. It is frequently ranked as one of the “best cities to live in” and is certainly a beautiful destination to visit. Vancouver will be the host of the 2010 Winter Olympics.

Must see attractions include the world-class Vancouver Aquarium and the 136-meter long Capilano Suspension Bridge across the Capilano River. In addition to the bridge, the river also boasts a large park, rainforest eco-tours and North America’s largest private collection of First Nations story poles. Grouse Mountain is also worth exploring. Hike 2.9 kilometers to the peak on the Grouse Grind trail. If you’re not up for the hike you can also catch the Skyride tram to the top to enjoy breathtaking views.

Alaska, the largest state in the United States (coming in at more than twice the size of Texas), is one of the final frontiers for travelers seeking adventure, unparalleled natural beauty or just a chance to get away from it all. It has more coastline than all the other U.S. states combined, and along with Hawaii is the only other non-contiguous state in the union.

There are myriad options for the family or individual planning a trip to Alaska. Gaze at glaciers and wildlife while cruising the Inside Passage, visit Denali National Park (home of Mt. McKinley), or revel in the history and culture of Alaska’s cities and small towns.

Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska, located in the south-central region. Anchorage is a cosmopolitan port city with a population of nearly 300,000. 

The Anchorage area is home to moose, brown and black bears, Dall sheep and many migratory bird species. A visitor should be able to find moose fairly easily by driving any neighborhood on Anchorage’s Hillside (actually the foothills of the Chugach Mountains).

The Nordic Skiing Association of Anchorage maintains and provides information on numerous nordic (cross-country) ski trails around town. Alyeska Resort located in Girdwood about 40 miles south of Anchorage is Alaska’s largest alpine (downhill) ski resort. Alyeska has a wide array of intermediate and expert terrain. Expert skiers and snowboarders can enjoy helicopter and snow-cat skiing in the Chugach Mountains with a professional guide.