The aurora borealis has been popping up all over the web lately, and we don’t mean the obligatory time-lapse photos and videos that emerge from the northern stretches of the universe. It just so happens that we are in the midst of the best northern lights viewing the world has seen in decades, and will…
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image source: jasleen_kaur You might not need that parka after all. By limiting yourself to one carry-on bag for your Alaska adventure, you’ll avoid baggage fees, breeze past the luggage carousel and make the most of your time in the Last Frontier. Fitting everything into one carry-on bag requires careful planning — and a new…
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What does the combination of one delicious dinner, a fancy drink at a bar and one Broadway play make? A recipe for an awesome night out on the town, obviously! Anchorage’s downtown scene has come a long way from the old-fashioned “Main Street” appearance it had in the 1960s. Fourth Avenue is still the hot…
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Once upon a time (on an October day in 1810, to be precise) in the far away German state of Bavaria, a Prince Ludwig took a Princess Therese to be his lawfully wedded wife. The entire country rejoiced at this union and was invited to celebrate the happy occasion. Such a merry event it was…
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Two very exciting things happen in Alaska every October: the annual Permanent Fund dividend is released and the Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN) Annual Convention, the country’s largest representative gathering of Native peoples. Starting today, Anchorage will host the AFN convention, showcasing the rich cultures of Alaska’s first people: their art, music, dance and traditions.…
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The Ultimate Great Land Vacation Itinerary If there’s one thing we know here at Westmark Hotels—well, other than how to offer our guests truly one-of-a-kind lodging experiences—it’s how to make the most of a Great Land vacation. We’re always getting asked by our guests what we think is the best way to experience the beauty and expanse of Alaska…
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Try your luck at reeling in a trophy fish and you might catch a cash prize! Alaska fishing derbies are a favorite summer activity for visitors and locals alike. Every summer, derbies in several towns across the state attract crowds of anglers eager to win big prizes. But before you throw out a line, be…
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In addition to abundant wildlife, stunning mountain views and long summer days, July and August also offer memorable northern fairs and festivals. From state fairs that boast rides, oversized vegetables and fresh Alaska seafood to music festivals that showcase some of the finest talent in Alaska and the Yukon, these festivities in the Land of…
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As the world around us rapidly grows and changes, the historic Westmark Baranof Hotel, located in downtown Juneau, continues to stand the test of time. For the past 75 years, the landmark hotel has amassed many happy memories as well as a unique history. Much has changed in Alaska’s capital city since the bygone era…
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Image used under Flickr Creative Commons license from Nicole Klauss. Farm to table, forage to fork—whatever you want to call the movement, Alaskans have been practicing it for centuries. Some of the most pristine land and waterways in the world combined with a relatively isolated spot on the map means that eating local has become…
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