Alaska - A Freezing Adventure
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Travel Leisure -> subcategory Destinations.
Alaska - A Freezing Adventure
Summary
Once you've experienced Alaska, you'll find yourself longing to return.An Icy Paradise Beyond the Yukon Trail
Situated beyond the Yukon Trail, at the crossroads of the USA and Canada, lies Alaska?"a vast, icy expanse that often feels like a forgotten corner of America. This state, with its towering mountains and Arctic landscapes, offers a truly unique adventure.
The 49th State: A Land of Extremes
Incorporated on January 3, 1959, Alaska is the 49th state of the USA. According to the 2000 US census, its population was 626,932. The name "Alaska" originates from the Aleut word Alyeska, meaning 'great land'. It shares borders with British Columbia and the Yukon Territory to the east, and is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, Gulf of Alaska, Bering Sea, Bering Strait, Chukchi Sea, Arctic Ocean, and Beaufort Sea. Alaska is the largest state in the USA and ranks as the 18th largest territory globally.
Rich History and Origins
The first settlers arrived in Alaska via the now-submerged Bering Land Bridge, which once connected Russia and Alaska. The Inuit, Yupik Eskimos, Aleuts, Inupiaq, and various other American Indian tribes were among the early inhabitants, following a path believed to have been taken by all pre-Columbian settlers of the Americas.
In a historic move, the US Senate purchased Alaska from Russia on April 9, 1867, for approximately seven million dollars?"equivalent to around 134 million today when adjusted for inflation.
A Land Apart
Separated by 500 miles of Canadian soil, Alaska stands alone, distinguished by its 570,374 square miles, making it the largest state in the USA. Its intricate network of islands also gives it the longest coastline, with some areas experiencing a dramatic 35-foot tidal range. Known for its wet climate, Alaska boasts three-and-a-half million lakes over 20 acres in size, expansive marshland, and wetland permafrost areas. Sixteen thousand square miles consist of glacier ice.
Economy and Challenges
Alaska's economy thrives on seafood exports, with agriculture playing a minimal role due to challenging transportation infrastructure. This makes importing food difficult, leading to higher prices compared to the mainland. The state also benefits from military spending and the industrialization of crude petroleum, natural gas, coal, gold, and other precious metals.
However, Alaska faces social challenges, including high rates of alcoholism, depression, suicide, domestic abuse, and violent crime. The harsh climate and isolation contribute to these issues. A concerning "brain-drain" occurs as top students often leave for the mainland, although the University of Alaska combats this by offering scholarships to the top 10 percent of high school graduates.
A Growing Tourist Destination
Despite these challenges, Alaska continues to grow in tourism, attracting visitors with its magical Arctic beauty. Don't let the downsides deter you?"experience the breathtaking Aurora Borealis and the unique allure of this extraordinary state.
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