Cruise Planners Shares Top Ways to Travel like a Local in Alaska

Cruise Planners, an American Express Travel Representative, the nation’s largest home-based travel franchise business network in the industry, wants everyone to make the most of the upcoming travel season. Instead of standing out like a tourist with a camera and fanny pack, Cruise Planners is lending its expertise to those traveling to the great state of Alaska to blend in like a local and experience the true culture of the state.

 “A lot of people think of Alaska and think of bears and fishing, and while Alaskan wildlife is breathtaking, the state has a culture all of its own and it’s not what you may think,” says Vicky Garcia, COO and co-owner of Cruise Planners. “There is a rich history and culture in Alaska that is unlike anywhere else in the lower 48.”

To get the best glimpse of the true character of Alaska, Cruise Planners suggests the following tips:

• Dress the Part: If you disembark your cruise ship wearing high heels and a Chanel handbag you will likely stand out in Alaska. Dressing like a local will make you not only fit in, but you’ll have the gear you need to stay warm and dry in place not known for sunny weather. Stop off at your local outdoor or sporting goods store and get a great pair of tennis shoes or hiking boots. Comfortable layering is key and waterproof is a plus!  Next pick up a down puffy coat or vest- you’ll fit right in and the nice thing about down is that it’s easily packable, light weight and keeps you warm in very cold weather.

• Know What to Order: If you’re looking for a fancy meal, save your appetite for back aboard the cruise ship. Alaska is known for its deep sea fishing of King Salmon, halibut, and cod and crabbing – you’ll never get fresher seafood than in Alaska. But don’t order “blue crab” as that’s an east coast thing – it’s all about the Dungeness crab (Dungee’s) or the Alaskan King Crab. For a light meal try a halibut burger or prawns!

• Immerse Yourself in the Outdoors: There are few places with such natural beauty like in the state of Alaska. While there are miles of uninhabited land, you never have to go far to see an amazing view of Mt. McKinley, a glacier and even whales and dolphins. You may also want to experience some of the many national parks in Alaska including Denali National Park – where you can stay in a cabin and be close to nature. 

• Remember the Gold Rush: Certain mining cities in Alaska saw their heyday during the Gold Rush, which you can still see today in souvenirs shops, time period reenactments, and the railroad. Hop aboard the Alaska Railroad in a windowed rail car where you will be able to view wildlife in their natural habitat. You can even sit and sip local brews made in Alaska and enjoy pints of Gold Rush Golden Ale among other local favorites. 

• Embrace the Culture: There is a rich Native American culture in Alaska and many of the Native American traditions and values are still very much a part of the lives of Alaskans. Whether its tribal rituals or the amazing art, the rich and historic culture of Alaska is unique and impressive. Check out the totem poles around the state when you visit ports of call.

• Know When to Go: The travel window in Alaska is condensed, so the travel months are from May through September. This is usually when kids are out of school, so Alaska is a great family destination. Also, during the summer months, the sun is up in Alaska for most of the day and night, only setting for a few hours, which adds to the mystic. 

• Understand the Geography: There are a few major cruise ports that sail to Alaska: Seattle, Seward (near Anchorage) and Vancouver. Also, some cruises are roundtrip, while others take you along the coast and you disembark and fly home from a different city than you started. Talk with your travel agent to find out which embarkation port and route would be best for you.

Don’t get left in the cold this travel season when heading up to the great white north. Be prepared and then sit back and enjoy the view. A trip to Alaska is a one of a kind experience and there is a cruise option for all types of travelers. If you want to combine a cruise and land vacation in Alaska, ask your Cruise Planners travel advisor about Completely Packaged Vacations for your family’s summer travel.