What People Don’t Tell You About Living in Alaska

Alaska, the largest state in the United States, is mysterious, vast, and at times, challenging for newcomers to navigate. Often, the stories and realities of living in such a unique environment are not fully disclosed until you've been there for a while. Here are some interesting insights you might not know about living in Alaska.

Transit Challenges in Alaska

One interesting item that many don’t know when arriving in Alaska to live is that you can’t drive to Juneau, the state capital, by road. You have to either fly or take various kinds of marine vehicles like commercial RORO (Roll On Roll Off) for vehicles. This might sound like a logistical challenge and it is one that requires careful planning and resources.

Wildlife and Natural Hazards

For those who expect a description of a pristine, idyllic nature, be prepared for the unsaid reality: there are animals that can and will eat you. Traveling through the forests or hiking in the wilderness can be dangerous due to encounters with bears, wolves, and other predatory animals.

In addition to wild animals, don't underestimate the allure of nude beaches. While these might sound intriguing, they can also be crowded, with their own set of responsibilities and challenges. And, it is illegal to cut down palm trees, which can be a surprise considering the tropical imagery often associated with them.

Challenges with Online Shopping Shipping

Ordering online goods can be a nightmare when you live in Alaska. You might think you can just order what you want online, but you cannot if you live in Alaska or Hawaii. For some reason, many places do not ship to Alaska. I would even be happy to pay a bit extra, but no one responds. Even small items, which could be shipped via postal service, often come true, making online shopping a less than ideal experience.

Climate Realities

Another common misconception is that you will experience six months of 24/7 sun and six months of darkness. However, this is not entirely accurate. In Anchorage, on the shortest day of the year, the sun rises around 10 am and sets around 3 pm. It is only above the Arctic Circle that you have 6 months of darkness and 6 months of sun. None of the major cities, such as Anchorage, Fairbanks, or Juneau, have heated sidewalks, and streets often freeze over during the harsh winter months, leading to icy conditions.

Furthermore, the seemingly idyllic conditions of 24/7 sunlight or complete darkness do not mean that you can avoid the harsh, icy weather. Living in Alaska requires both mental and physical resilience, as well as an understanding that the environment can be unforgiving and unpredictable.

Alaska is a land of extremes, where the polar opposite of what you expected can occur. From the unexpected logistical challenges of daily life to the harsh and sometimes dangerous conditions, living in Alaska is a unique experience that comes with its own set of challenges and revelations.

As you prepare to embark on your journey to Alaska, be prepared to learn things that aren’t often shared. Remember that the story of living in this vast and beautiful land is not just about the cold, snow, and wildlife; it's about the unexpected nuances of daily life as well.