(As part of my quest to visit every state, I will be spending some time throughout the year highlighting each of our 50 states.)
 
Today is Admission Day for Alaska.  On January 3rd, 1959, Alaska (purchased from Russia in 1867) became the 49th state.
Although Alaska is the largest state in geographical area, it is one of the least populated, ranking 47th of 50.  Due in large part to its connection with the oil industry, it is one of the wealthiest states. 
Alaska is a rugged state, with lots of outdoor adventure opportunities:  fishing, hunting, hiking, snowshoeing, dog sledding, etc.  During the summer, …read more

Here are today’s Money Saving Travel Tips:

If international travel is in your plans, check with your credit card companies before you go to see what their policies are about foreign transactions fees and money conversion rates.  You don’t want to have all your savings from a favorable exchange rate eaten up by a large transaction fee.  Travel Guide for Your Finances provides a good chart and listing of most major credit cards and terms.
Help to reduce the cost of visiting one of the National Parks by purchasing an annual pass, at a cost of $50 for the entire year. While a …read more

Finding the right carry on bag for traveling may be a never-ending search.  For some people, it’s not about finding the perfect bag; it’s about finding ANOTHER perfect bag.
One brand that I’ve being seeing a lot of lately is Timbuk2.
Popular with both men and women, rarely does a day go by that I don’t see on these messenger bags onboard.  I’ve seen them used as a briefcase, with laptop, file folders, and electronic gear all snugly stowed.  I’ve also seen them used as a general carry on bag, holding reading material, snacks, toiletries, and a purse.  Additionally, I’ve seen the …read more

Walking and biking are two summer activiites that I just haven’t done enough of lately.
It seems that I never have the time.  Or, perhaps more accurately, I never seem to make the time.  When I do have time, I never know where to go or who to call to go with me.
Then I came across Trail Link, a comprehensive listing of trails throughout the United States.  I’ve bookmarked this handy reference, and will use it both at home and when I’m traveling. 
Each trail listing includes information covering:  name and location of trail, length, and permitted activities (biking, walking, horseback riding, …read more