Leaving Alaska

I am still blown away by the beauty and size of Alaska. To summarize this state or even my short experience here seems impossible. If there was one thing I had to report about Alaska it is this: every person who lives in the United States needs to visit this place. Alaska is truly a unique place that stands out in more ways than any other state. Of all 50 states this is the single state that every American needs to visit.

Historically there are more interesting states such as Massachusetts. And in terms of shopping, politics, events, beaches, and things to do there are many other states that take greater rank. Alaska, however, is truly The Last Frontier. This is a special place. There is no other state that can compare. This is the heart of wildlife and natural beauty in the United States. The state itself is nearly half of the continental US. To those who do plan to visit Alaska, I wish that you plan to do so in more depth than a cruise. This is a place that also needs to be protected. From the Exxon Valdez and now the issues of global warming and world oil crises, this is going to be a state of great debate in years to come. Personally, Alaska captures the grandeur of the American spirit.

Alaska, I hope I will represent you well in the future. Especially for all the times I have been asked if I was only going to 48 states on the trip, after explicitly stating I’m going to all 50. And I especially hope to represent Alaska well for the one person who asked me if there were 52 states in the country. Alaska, you’re amazing!