Grand Circle Travel - GRAND CIRCLE TRAVEL PLANNING GUIDE Alaskan Discovery: Denali National Park & the Kenai Fjords
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GRAND CIRCLE TRAVEL PLANNING GUIDE
Alaskan Discovery: Denali National Park & the Kenai Fjords
2022
Learn how to personalize your experience on this vacation
®
Grand Circle Travel
Worldwide Discovery at an Extraordinary Value
1
Grand Circle Travel ®
347 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02210
Dear Traveler,
As the world begins to open again for curious travel lovers like you and me, you can now discover the
places you’ve dreamed of. The enclosed Grand Circle Travel Planning Guide will help you prepare for
those long-awaited dreams.
Before you start planning, please let me reassure you that your health and safety is our number
one priority. As such, we’re requiring that all Grand Circle travelers, ship crew, Program
Directors, and coach drivers must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 at least 14 days prior
to departure. You can find our most up-to-date health and safety protocols at www.gct.com/
coronavirus-update.
The journey you’ve expressed interest in, Alaskan Discovery: Denali National Park & the Kenai Fjords
vacation, will be an excellent way to resume your discoveries. Thanks to our Alaskan Program
Director , you will be brought into the true heart of the region and be shown secret treasures that
only an insider can know. You can also rely on the seasoned team at our regional office in Boston,
who are ready to help 24/7 in case any unexpected circumstances arise.
Throughout your explorations, you’ll meet local people and gain an intimate understanding of
the real Alaska, not just a supeficial view. Visit the daughters of a gold miner in Fairbanks to learn
about this Alaskan tradition; then try panning for gold yourself. You’ll also meet a professional
dog musher near Denali to see how loyal sled dogs are raised and trained.
Plus, you can put your own personal stamp on your adventure, like the more than 85% of our
travelers who take advantage of the freedom to personalize their experience. Join the 49% of
travelers who extend their time abroad. Add the pre-trip extension to Alaska: Juneau, post-trip
extension to Alaska: Valdez & Anchorage, or both of these extensions to your Alaska vacation.
I hope you find this Grand Circle Travel Planning Guide helpful. If you have any further questions,
don’t hesitate to contact one of our Travel Counselors at 1-800-221-2610.
Warm regards,
Harriet R. Lewis
Vice Chairman
Grand Circle Travel
P.S. For further peace of mind, please know that we are EXTENDING our Risk-Free Booking
Policy through 12/31/21. Learn more at www.gct.com/riskfree-booking.
2
CONTENTS
A Letter from Harriet Lewis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
The GCT Difference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
The Freedom to Personalize Your Experience . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Grand Circle Foundation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
The Leader in Solo Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
ALASKAN DISCOVERY: DENALI ABOUT YOUR DESTINATIONS:
NATIONAL PARK & THE KENAI FJORDS CULTURE, ETIQUETTE & MORE
Your Adventure at a Glance: Alaska Culture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Where You’re Going, What it Costs, Anchorage in Brief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
and What’s Included . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Juneau in Brief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Your Detailed Day-To-Day Itinerary . . . . . . . . 12
Valdez in Brief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Pre-Trip Extension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Shopping: What to Buy, Customs,
Post-Trip Extension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Shipping & More . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Dates & Prices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
DEMOGRAPHICS & HISTORY
ESSENTIAL TRAVEL INFORMATION Alaska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Rigors, Vaccines & General Health . . . . . . . . . 25 Facts, Figures & National Holidays . . . . . . . . 44
Keep Your Abilities In Mind . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Alaska: A Brief History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Health Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
26
Vaccine Required . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . RESOURCES
Staying Healthy on Your Trip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Suggested Reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Money Matters: Local Currency & Tipping Suggested Film & Video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Tipping Guidelines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Air, Optional Tours & Staying in Touch . . . . . 30
Land Only Travelers & Personalized Air. . . . . 30
All Travelers: Check Your License or ID . . . . . 31
Optional Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Communicating with Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Packing: What to Bring & Luggage Limits . . . 33
What to Bring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Climate & Average Temperatures . . . . . . . . . . 37
Health & Safety Measures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Notes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
3
EXPERIENCE THE GRAND CIRCLE DIFFERENCE
in Alaska
Grand Circle is dedicated to providing travelers with an experience that no other company can
offer. We pride ourselves on creating comfortably paced vacations guided by local experts, and
always include unique discoveries in addition to a variety of choices to help you personalize your
trip. And it’s all available at the best value in the travel industry.
THE BEST PROGRAM DIRECTORS alone. Plus, with FREE Single Supplements
Your English-speaking, Program Director is a on all Grand Circle trips and extensions, as
resident of the region you are visiting, so you well as a free Roommate Matching Program,
will get a true insider’s perspective that brings you’ll never have to pay a premium to travel on
each place alive—the stories, food, customs, your own.
hidden treasures and more.
AUTHENTIC CULTURAL CONNECTIONS
BEST VALUE IN TRAVEL—GUARANTEED We take you into the heart of your destination’s
Your trip price includes all accommodations, culture, providing you with a glimpse of its
as well as more meals, tours, exclusive people’s day-to-day lives. Alongside a group
Discovery Series events, and gratuities than of like-minded travelers, you’ll experience our
any other travel company can offer at a lower Exclusive Discovery Series events and learn
per-day price. If you can find a better price about the local culture from those who work,
on a comparable trip from another company, learn, and live there.
we’ll match it with our Best Price Guarantee.
OUR WORLDWIDE OFFICES
Plus, each time you travel with us you’ll earn
With 36 regional offices around the world,
Frequent Traveler Credits worth up to 6% of
we are perfectly poised to leverage our local
your trip price, which you can apply to the cost
relationships to deliver an excellent experience
of future vacations.
and value. During this trip, you’ll be supported
SOLO-FRIENDLY TRAVEL by our team in Boston, Massachusetts.
Whether you’re traveling independently, or
sharing your discoveries with a close friend
or family member, the natural camaraderie of
your group will ensure that you’ll never feel
Denali National Park, Alaska, United States Talkeetna, Alaska, United States
4
THE PILLARS OF DISCOVERY
Enriching. Inspiring. Unforgettable. These features form the foundation
of your Alaskan Discovery vacation.
HOME-HOSTED EXPERIENCES For example, you’ll visit a local kennel to
Stories shared. Differences solved. Taste buds meet with a professional dog musher for
engaged. Good will extended. It’s amazing the an exclusive Discovery Series discussion
things that can happen across a kitchen table, about sled dogs and mushing in Alaska,
so we’ll break into groups of up to 10 travelers an occupation that predates American
to join a local family in their home for a snack colonization of Alaska’s territory. You’ll learn
or a meal. This is a rare opportunity to witness more about the annual Iditarod competition,
family life, learn local customs, and taste as well as how the musher trains and prepares
some home-cooked fare. their huskies. Then, you’ll meet the future
generation of sled dog competitors when you
For example, on our vacation in Spain and have the opportunity to hold husky puppies.
Portugal, you’ll get a taste of Spanish life
and sample traditional flavors when you join
GRAND CIRCLE FOUNDATION (GCF)
a family for lunch in Malaga; on our Amalfi
VISIT
Coast vacation, you’ll become acquainted with
GCF was established in 1992 to help change
Italian social life as you break bread with a
people’s lives in the world where we live,
family in Sorrento and taste a meal from an
work, and travel. To date, we have pledged or
authentic Italian kitchen; and, on our United
donated $200 million worldwide.
Kingdom vacation, experience some of the
legendary Welsh hospitality as you share a By investing in the places we explore—
meal with a family in Snowdonia. including local schools, cooperatives, or arts
centers—we hope to give locals the skills and
CULTURAL CONNECTIONS confidence they need to become leaders of
There’s no better way to get to know a their generation and preserve their heritage
country’s culture than to connect with its for many years to come. We’re proud to play
people. That’s why our vacations include a part in preserving precious locales like the
exclusive Discovery Series events that bring Bryggen waterfront district of Bergen, a living
you into the heart of local communities for a example of the glory days of the Hanseatic
glimpse of daily life, perhaps during a farm or League, and supporting villages like Harmi in
school visit. Plus, your Program Director is an Estonia, whose once-struggling school is now
insider who will lead candid conversations on a center of community life.
local history, customs, or contemporary issues
that will expand your understanding.
5
You're in control with
THE FREEDOM TO PERSONALIZE YOUR EXPERIENCE
Exclusively with Grand Circle
Your Choice. Your Vacation. Your Way.
It’s your vacation, so why not make it exactly what you want it to be? We offer an exclusive variety
of options that let you tailor your trip so it’s completely your own. In fact, Grand Circle is the only
travel company to offer this level of flexibility and choice for a truly personalized experience.
PRE- OR POST-TRIP EXTENSIONS 2. Great value: All extensions include
Every Grand Circle vacation offers at least one accommodations, daily breakfast, and
optional pre-trip and one post-trip extension. airport transfers.
Here’s why more than 55% of Grand Circle 3. Continuity and camaraderie: You’ll usually
travelers choose to take a pre- or post-trip travel with the same Program Director who
extension: leads your main trip, enjoying more of his
1. You’ll maximize your discoveries—often in or her insider expertise—and more time to
an even smaller group than your main trip bond with the group.
(on average, 11 travelers with a dedicated
Program Director)—and take advantage of
your included airfare.
Optional Extensions offered with your Alaska adventure
Juneau, Alaska Valdez, Alaska
3 nights pre-trip from $1895 3 nights post-trip from $1895
Mendenhall Glacier, Juneau, Alaska Valdez, Alaska
6
ARRIVE EARLY, STAY LATER COMBINE VACATIONS
Extending your time abroad—with us or You’re already overseas. Why not see more and
on your own—is the best way to broaden maximize your value by avoiding the cost and
your experience. It’s also a practical way to length of another international flight? Here’s
maximize the value of the international airfare why 2,250 Grand Circle travelers combined two
covered in your main itinerary. or more vacations in 2019:
Expand Your Discoveries • Save a total of $600-$3000 per person when
Before or After Your Trip you combine two vacations compared to the
cost of taking each trip separately.
Arrive early in the first destination on your
pre-trip extension or main trip, or stay later • Apply the 5% or 6% Frequent Traveler Credit
in the last city on your main trip or post-trip you earn on your first trip to your second trip.
extension. By coming early, you can rest after • Inner Circle Club members save an extra
your flight and adjust—with time to explore. $250-$350 per person when booking multiple
By staying later, you have extra time to relax, trips in a calendar year.
pack, or continue exploring.
• Our Travel Counselors make all the
Perhaps you’ll choose to spend more time in arrangements for a seamless experience.
Fairbanks before, or in Anchorage after, your Combine this trip with our Enhanced!
main trip; arrive early in Juneau on the pre- Best of the Canadian Rockies: Calgary to
trip extension; or remain in Valdez after your Vancouver vacation—for a total cost of $9290-
post-trip extension. Whatever you choose, our $9890 per person—and save $800-$1000 per
Travel Counselors are here to help you tailor person versus taking each trip separately.
your Grand Circle airfare to personalize your
experience. AIR PREFERENCES
54% of our travelers customize their air
NEW! Stopover in any major itineraries:
international city
• Choose your departure city and airline
Travelers with Grand Circle airfare have the
opportunity to stopover in popular cities • Depart from one city and return to another
en route to your main trip. Speak with one • Upgrade to Premium Economy or
of our Travel Counselors to learn more Business Class
about your options and to arrange your
FREEDOM OF CHOICE DURING
international airfare.
YOUR TRIP
You are free to choose however you’d like Our itineraries provide a balance of included
to spend this additional time exploring, activities and free time so you always have
including the tours you take, activities you the flexibility to participate in included
plan, and restaurants you visit. If you’d like activities, go off on your own entirely, or do a
ideas about how to spend this time and what to mix of both.
see and do, our Travel Counselors can provide
recommendations when helping you plan
this option.
7
GRAND CIRCLE FOUNDATION
Changing people’s lives, one village, one school, one person at a time
GIVING BACK TO THE WORLD WE TRAVEL
Dear Traveler,
Since our inception in 1992, the Grand Circle
In 1992 we established Grand Circle Foundation has pledged or donated more than
Foundation, an entity of the Lewis Family $200 million to projects around the world.
Foundation, as a means to give back to
the world that had already given us so JOIN OUR GENEROUS TRAVELERS
much. We’ve pledged or donated more We consider each and every one of our travelers
than $200 million worldwide to support to be partners in our worldwide giving.
the education of young people and the Some travelers, however, are so inspired by
preservation of international treasures the schools and villages they visit, they are
and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. compelled to give more. In fact, our travelers
have donated more than $1 million in 2019
Of course, none of this would be possible
alone. And because we have no administrative
without your help. A portion of the
costs, 100% of donations are used to help
proceeds of every adventure is donated to
change people’s lives.
Grand Circle Foundation—so just as your
life will be enriched by the discoveries BETTER OUR OWN COMMUNITIES—
you’ll make on your journey, you’ll also ALL AROUND THE WORLD
help to enrich the lives of the people you’ll
In addition to the destinations where we travel,
meet along the way.
we strive to better the communities where
Thank you for traveling with us, and for we work—from our headquarters in Boston
helping to change people’s lives. to our 36 offices around the world. In Boston,
more than 99% of our associates participate
Warm regards,
in community service each year. Worldwide,
nearly all of our offices organize annual
community service events of their own..
Harriet R. Lewis
Chair, Grand Circle Foundation
How you can help
To learn more about ongoing Foundation projects, you
can sign up for our weekly e-newsletter, the Inside Scoop,
at www.gct.com/community/the-inside-scoop. When
you do, you’ll not only receive updates on Grand Circle
Foundation, but the latest news and discoveries on all
things Grand Circle and Overseas Adventure Travel.
SCAN ME See how Grand Circle
Foundation is giving back
in this video
Open the camera feature on your mobile
device, and hover the lens over this code to
scan it. A pop-up notification will take you
www.grandcirclefoundation.org directly to the video.
8
THE LEADER IN SOLO TRAVEL
in Alaska—and Around the World
ON THIS VACATION …
FREE Single Supplements: We don’t charge The leader in solo-friendly
a single supplement on this vacation and travel for Americans—by
optional trip extensions—a savings of $1050-
the numbers
$1800 per person compared to other travel
companies. But single spaces fill quickly, so
early reservations are advised. More than 35% of all Grand Circle
travelers are women who travel solo
You’ll be in good hands, thanks to your
dedicated local Program Director (a resident
of Alaska), and the expertise of our regional
In 2022, we’re offering 3,850
singles spaces across all Grand Circle
office team in Boston.
vacations. That’s 23% more than
offered in 2019
Increased Single Space: In 2022, we have
100% more single spaces than in 2019, with up
to 8 single spaces per departure. See available 92% of our 30,000 single spaces
FREE single space at www.gct.com/aks2022. have FREE Single Supplements. The
remaining 8% have the lowest single
supplements in the industry.
SCAN ME
NEW! 101+
Tips for Solo
Women Travelers
This complimentary, 96-page
booklet is a comprehensive
collection of savvy tips
specifically for seasoned women
travelers going solo. Learn about
safety for solos, packing like a pro,
the best travel apps, self-care on
the road, and more. Scan this code
to view an online copy or to request
one by mail.
9
New! Alaskan Discovery: Denali National
Park & the Kenai Fjords
Alaska: Fairbanks, Denali National Park, Talkeetna, Seward, Anchorage
Countries: 1 | Cities: 4 | National Parks: 2
Bull moose, Denali National Park, Alaska
IT’S INCLUDED
FROM PER DAY DAYS
$
5995 $ 545 11 • Choose to purchase Grand Circle’s airfare, and your airport
transfers, government taxes, fees, and airline fuel surcharges are
included. Or, make your own air arrangements
Including international airfare
• Accommodations for 10 nights in comfortable rooms with
Single Supplement: FREE private baths
• 21 meals: 10 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 5 dinners
MAXIMIZE YOUR DISCOVERIES • 8 included features: 4 guided tours and 4 exclusive Discovery
& VALUE Series events: Gold Rush experience • Northern Lights conversation •
Dog musher visit • Musk ox farm visit
OPTIONAL EXTENSIONS • Exclusive services of a local Grand Circle Program Director
all with FREE Single Supplements (assigned to no more than 42 travelers)
Juneau, Alaska • Gratuities on your main trip for local guides and motorcoach drivers
3 nights pre-trip from $1895
• Personal headset for all included and optional tours on
Valdez, Alaska your main trip
3 nights post-trip from $1895
• Private motorcoach land travel
• Baggage handling for 1 piece of luggage per person, including tips
• 5% Frequent Traveler Credit toward your next trip
Alaskan Discovery: Denali National Park & the Kenai Fjords
10Arrival/Departure
Nights at destination 2
ITINERARY OVERVIEW
n R. 2 Fairbanks
Yuko Nenana
Included Tour
Optional Tour PRE-TRIP EXTENSION:
Y U KO N T
Motorcoach Route
Ta Air Route Juneau, Alaska
na
na Cruise Route
2 Denali R. Rail Route
Denali National Park Day 1 • Fly to Fairbanks, Alaska
PRE-TRIP EXTENSION
Ca na da
E R R IT O
To Fairbanks
U .S .
Yukon Terr.
C
U an British
Day 2 • Fairbanks
.S .
2 Talkeetna . Columbia
Mendenhall
RY
A l a s k a Glacier 3
Day 3-4 • Denali National Park
Juneau
Palmer Pacific Included Tour Denali National Park
Ocean Alaska
Anchorage 2
Alaska Wildlife
POST-TRIP EXTENSION Day 5-6 • Talkeetna
Conservation Center Alaska Included Tour Talkeetna
Palmer Thompson
t
nle
2 Seward Pass
kI
1 2 Day 7-8 • Seward
nc
Coo
A
Kenai Fjords ho Valdez Included Tours Seward, Kenai Fjords
National Park Gulf of Alaska rag Prince William
e Sound
National Park cruise
Day 9-10 • Anchorage
Day 11 • Depart Anchorage
Activity Level:
POST-TRIP EXTENSION:
Valdez, Alaska
WHAT TO EXPECT
Group Size Terrain & Transportation
• A maximum of 42 travelers, • Uneven and slippery walking
led by a local Grand Circle surfaces, including unpaved paths
Program Director • Travel by motorcoach, and public
transportation that requires ability
Pacing to stand up and hold handles
• 5 locations in 10 days while vehicle is in motion
• Public transportation including
Physical Requirements bus, train, and boat
• Walk 1-2 miles unassisted and • Balance and agility is required
participate in 2-3 hours of physical on the boat
activities daily Watch our #1 most popular
• Travelers using walkers, crutches, Climate video for this vacation
or other mobility aids must • Daytime temperatures range from SCAN ME
travel with a companion who can 60-80°F during touring season
assist them
• Nighttime temperatures can fall
• We reserve the right for Program to 40-50°F
Directors to restrict participation,
or in some circumstances send
travelers home, if their limitations
impact the group’s experience
Open the camera feature on your mobile
device, and hover the lens over this code
to scan it. A pop-up notification will take
you directly to the video.
1-800-221-2610 • www.gct.com/aks2022
11Alaskan Discovery: Denali National
Park & the Kenai Fjords
YOUR DETAILED ITINERARY
BEGIN YOUR TRIP WITH AN OPTIONAL PRE-TRIP EXTENSION
3 nights in Juneau, Alaska
Day 1 Arrive Juneau, Alaska Day 3 Juneau • Whale watching cruise
Day 2 Juneau • Mendenhall Glacier visit Day 4 Arrive Fairbanks, Alaska
Day 1 Arrive Fairbanks, Alaska Dinner: On your own—ask your Program
Director for local restaurant recommendations.
• Destination: Fairbanks
• Accommodations: Pike’s Waterfront Lodge Evening: You have the freedom to spend
or similar this evening as you wish—ask your Program
Activity Note: Depending on your flight Director for recommendations.
schedule, you will arrive in Fairbanks either in
the afternoon or evening. Day 2 Fairbanks • Trans-Alaskan Pipeline •
Gold Rush experience
Morning: Fly to Fairbanks, Alaska from your
home state. • Destination: Fairbanks
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Afternoon: Upon arrival at the airport in
• Accommodations: Pike’s Waterfront Lodge
Fairbanks, a Grand Circle representative will
or similar
meet you and assist with the transfer to your
hotel, where you’ll meet your Program Director Breakfast: At the hotel.
and fellow travelers, including those who
Morning: You’ll gather with your fellow
took our Juneau, Alaska pre-trip extension.
travelers for a Welcome Briefing at the hotel.
This modern frontier settlement still retains
During this briefing, you will introduce yourself
much of its Wild West Gold Rush flavor. Gold
to the group and your Program Director will
dredges and mining camps speckle its outlying
review your itinerary with you in more detail
areas. Tom Sawyer paddlewheelers still ply the
(including any changes that may need to
river, sled-dog teams scamper through the
occur). Your Program Director will also discuss
long winter nights, and follies-style revues
logistics, safety and emergency procedures, and
are a nightly occurrence in saloons and at the
answer questions you may have.
Alaskaland pioneer village.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
12After, you’ll depart the hotel and set off for the Day 3 Fairbanks • Explore Nenana • Denali
Trans-Alaskan Pipeline. The pipeline carries oil National Park
discovered in Prudhoe Bay in 1968 some 800
• Destination: Denali National Park
miles to the ice-free port of Valdez. Authorized
by former President Richard Nixon in 1977, • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
the pipeline cost around $8 billion to build. • Accommodations: Grand Denali Lodge
Precautions have been taken to minimize the or similar
pipeline’s environmental impact including Breakfast: At the hotel.
building 12 pumping stations that have special
radiators in certain sections, which disperse Morning: Free for your own discoveries—ask
the heat from the pumped oil to prevent the your Program Director for recommendations.
melting of the permafrost upon which the
Lunch: Included at a local restaurant in
pipeline is built.
Fairbanks, featuring traditional cuisine.
Later this morning, enjoy an exclusive
Afternoon: Say goodbye to Fairbanks and
Discovery Series event when you meet two
begin your journey to your next destination:
sisters who will reveal the “golden heart” of the
Denali National Park. Along the way, you’ll stop
city to us. They’ll show you how to pan for gold
in Nenana. Located on the river of the same
so that you can try your luck and possibly bring
name, Nenana is a simple town of single-story
a little Alaskan treasure of your own home
homes and log cabins where less than 1000
with you. Your hosts will also share their close
people reside. Drive through the town to see
relationship to the history of Fairbanks’ Gold
this simple way of life and locals going about
Rush era as their father was a gold miner here.
their daily routines. Your Program Director
The discovery of a gold field just 15 miles north
will also share details about the town’s annual
of Fairbanks fueled a population boom that
Nenana Ice Classic, a high stakes game in which
propelled Fairbanks to become the largest city
a wooden pole is frozen into the river and locals
in Alaska before it was surpassed by Anchorage.
bet on when the ice around the pole will break
Then, you’ll conclude your discoveries here and in the spring.
return to Fairbanks early this afternoon.
After, continue on to Denali National Park
Lunch: On your own—ask your Program where you’ll check into your lodge and you have
Director for local restaurant recommendations. some time to relax and get settled in.
Afternoon: Free for your own discoveries—ask Dinner: At the hotel, featuring local dishes like
your Program Director for recommendations. Alaskan salmon.
Dinner: Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant. Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the Program Director for recommendations.
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
Program Director for recommendations.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
13Day 4 Explore Denali National Park Lunch: A boxed lunch will be provided.
• Destination: Denali National Park Afternoon: You continue exploring the wilds
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch of Denali National Park before returning to
• Accommodations: Grand Denali Lodge your hotel early this afternoon. Then, you
or similar have the rest of the day free for your own
discoveries—ask your Program Director for
Activity Note: You’ll explore Denali National
recommendations.
Park for 6 hours aboard a 55-passenger vintage
school bus alongside travelers from other tour Dinner/Evening: Continue making independent
groups. Because of the nature of the park and its discoveries this evening, with dinner on your
terrain, traveling by school bus is the only way own. Ask your Program Director for restaurant
to explore this landscape. You may travel over recommendations.
uneven and bumpy roads. And depending on
weather conditions, it may be difficult to spot
Day 5 Denali National Park • Talkeetna
Denali’s wildlife.
• Destination: Talkeetna
Breakfast: At the hotel. • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodations: Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge
Morning: You’ll depart the hotel and board a
or similar
55-passenger vintage school bus for a 6-hour
exploration of Denali National Park. This Breakfast: At the hotel.
experience will surely open your eyes to the
Morning: You’ll visit a local kennel to meet
true majesty of Alaska’s wild wonders as you
with a professional dog musher for an exclusive
traverse park roads flanked by verdant fields
Discovery Series discussion about sled dogs and
and rugged mountains. Denali National Park
mushing in Alaska, an occupation that predates
has been designated an international biosphere
American colonization of Alaska’s territory. Dog
reserve and was expanded to six million from
sledding was used as a means of transporting
3.2 million acres by the Alaska National Interest
goods across the state during harsh winters, but
Lands Conservation Act of 1980. The park
today, it is primarily a recreational activity. In
stretches out along the north side of the Alaska
fact, a popular competition, the Iditarod, is held
Range, just 250 miles from the southernmost
annually, pitting the best sled dogs against each
edge of the Arctic Circle. Looming over it
other as they face the elements on a 1000-mile
all is the mighty Mount Denali, America’s
journey from Anchorage to Nome.
tallest peak soaring just beyond 20,000 feet.
On a clear day, you may be able to see the You’ll learn more about this competition during
mountain’s peak. your visit today, as well as how the musher
trains and prepares their huskies for sledding.
A local guide will accompany you on today’s
Then, you’ll meet the future generation of sled
explorations, sharing insight into the history
dog competitors when you have the opportunity
and ecological makeup of the park. While
to hold husky puppies.
spotting Denali’s wildlife is dependent on
weather conditions and other factors that are Later this morning, you’ll head to the Denali
out of our control, your guide will do their best Park Depot to catch a train to Talkeetna.
to point out any animal sightings during your
explorations. Lunch: Served onboard the train.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
14Afternoon: As you ride the rails, make sure register every year. Discover some of the people
to enjoy the views out your window. Witness who have faced this feat at the station before
massive mountains, expansive fields dotted continuing on to the Talkeetna Historical
with spruces and aspens, and snaking rivers. Society’s museum. Here, you’ll discover the
Upon arrival, you’ll transfer to your hotel to Alaska Natives, gold miners, and explorers who
check in and you’ll have some free time to made Talkeetna what it is today. Your Program
get settled. Director will also accompany you to the town’s
shops where you can see residents going about
Dinner: Included at a local restaurant.
their daily routines and browse for souvenirs.
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
Lunch/Afternoon: Yours to do as you please.
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
Your Program Director will be happy to
Program Director for recommendations.
recommend a spot for lunch and free time
activities.
Day 6 Explore Talkeetna • Northern Lights
Dinner/Evening: Continue making independent
conversation
discoveries this evening, with dinner on your
• Destination: Talkeetna
own. Ask your Program Director for restaurant
• Included Meals: Breakfast recommendations.
• Accommodations: Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge
or similar
Day 7 Talkeetna • Alaska Wildlife
Breakfast: At the hotel. Conservation Center visit • Seward
Morning: Start the morning off with an • Destination: Seward
exclusive Discovery Series discussion in your • Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
hotel with a local photographer who specializes • Accommodations: Windsong Lodge
in capturing stunning images of the Northern or similar
Lights. She’ll not only show you her photos
Breakfast: At the hotel.
of this natural phenomenon, but she’ll also
explain how and why it occurs. Then, set off Morning: Say goodbye to Talkeetna and
on a walking tour of Talkeetna alongside your begin your journey to Seward, via Anchorage.
Program Director. With a little less than 900 Upon arrival in Anchorage, you’ll have
residents, Talkeetna radiates the spirit of a the opportunity to explore some of the
small town in every sense. Log cabins can be downtown area.
found nestled within openings in the forest
Lunch: On your own—ask your Program
surrounding the town, the main street remains
Director for local restaurant recommendations.
the only part of Talkeetna located on a paved
road, and the inviting locals will make you feel Afternoon: Continue on to the Alaska Wildlife
like family. Conservation Center, an organization that
aims to rehabilitate wild animals that have
Today, you’ll walk along the shores of the
been injured or abandoned. Spread out over
Susitn River where—weather permitting—you
200 acres of land, you’ll have the opportunity
may catch glimpses of Denali Mountain’s
to explore this property and witness some of
snow-capped peak. You’ll also visit the Ranger
Station where people looking to climb Denali
must attain permits. Around 1000 climbers
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
15the species that reside here, including black surface, and bald eagles soar through the blue
bears, bald eagles, lynx, moose, bison, wolves, skies above. A naturalist will be onboard with
reindeer, and more. your group to point out these spectacular
creatures during your explorations.
After spending a couple of hours at the center,
you’ll finish the last leg of your journey to Lunch: Onboard during your cruise.
Seward, arriving later this afternoon. Situated
Afternoon: You’ll continue your cruise well
at the head of Resurrection Bay on the Kenai
into the afternoon before returning to Seward.
Peninsula, Seward is a picturesque seaside
You are free to make your own discoveries—ask
community where colorful homes line the
your Program Director for recommendations.
bay’s edge, boats bob in the water, and majestic
mountains serve as a scenic backdrop. The Dinner/Evening: Continue making independent
town was named after William H. Seward, discoveries this evening, with dinner on your
Secretary of State under Abraham Lincoln. own. Ask your Program Director for restaurant
Seward negotiated the purchase of the Alaskan recommendations.
territories from Russia for $7,200,000 in 1867.
Dinner: Included at the hotel, featuring Day 9 Seward • Anchorage
traditional cuisine. • Destination: Anchorage
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your • Accommodations: Sheraton Anchorage Hotel
Program Director for recommendations. & Spa or similar
Breakfast: At the hotel.
Day 8 Explore Seward • Kenai Fjord
Morning: Depart the hotel and set off for the
National Park cruise Alaska Sea Life Center. Here, you’ll learn about
• Destination: Seward the marine research that is being conducted to
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch better understand Alaska’s underwater ecology.
• Accommodations: Windsong Lodge You’ll also come face-to-face with some of the
or similar incredible creatures that reside here, including
harbor seals, puffins, and jellyfish.
Breakfast: At the hotel.
Lunch: At a local restaurant in Seward.
Morning: You’ll set out this morning to get
acquainted with the town as you discover its Afternoon: You’ll then travel to your next and
busy waterfront district and explore its quaint final destination on this itinerary: Anchorage.
shops. Later, we’ll set off for Kenai Fjords Make sure to take a look out your window
National Park where you have the option to during your travels to watch the spectacular
begin your discoveries here with a hike along scenery of Alaska unfold before your eyes.
Exit Glacier. You can get an up close view of this Mountains seemingly rise out of the endless
icy wonder before your group gathers and takes fields and forests that mark your route. Upon
to the waters for a 6-hour cruise through the arrival in Anchorage later this afternoon, you’ll
park. Kenai Fjords National Park encompasses check in at your hotel and the rest of the day
over 900 square miles of wilderness. Humpback is free for your own discoveries—ask your
whales and sea lions make their home among Program Director for recommendations.
the park’s glaciers, otters dart along the water’s
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
16The city is home to nearly half the state’s nature of their appearance, these mammals
population. Russian fur trappers lived here thrive in colder climates and are primarily
and traded with the local natives when Captain found in Alaska and Siberia. Today, you’ll tour
James Cook arrived in 1778 on his search for the the farm and learn more about the history of
Northwest Passage. Anchorage sits on the inlet musk oxen—these furry creatures may even
named after Cook against a backdrop of the approach you to greet you as they are known for
spectacular Chugach Mountains. The Gold Rush their friendly demeanor.
of the 1880s and the construction of the Alaska
Next, you’ll move on to the Alaska Native
Railroad authorized by Woodrow Wilson in 1915
Heritage Center. Dedicated to enriching your
brought more settlers. The city’s modern-day
knowledge of Alaska Natives, the center
expansion resumed after World War I with the
includes full-scale models of typical dwellings
arrival of the military bases and installations
and demonstrations of local customs,
during World War II and more defense spending
traditions, and handicrafts. Today, Alaska
during the 1950s. Alaska earned its statehood
is home to five main tribes: the Northwest
in 1959, but disaster followed on Good Friday
Coast Indians, Inupiaqs, Yupiks, Aleuts, and
1964 when the epicenter of an earthquake
the Athabascans. These indigenous people
shook Anchorage. Rebuilding commenced
represent 16% of the state’s population.
immediately and the discovery of oil in Prudhoe
While here, you’ll have the opportunity to
Bay, and the construction of the TransAlaska
see members of these local tribes dressed in
Pipeline provided the fuel for exponential
authentic garb performing traditional dances.
growth throughout the 1970s and beyond. The
Afterward, you’ll cap off your discoveries and
construction of the Anchorage International
head to downtown Anchorage.
Airport in the 1970s cemented the geographic
importance of Anchorage in US-Asian and Lunch/Afternoon: Yours to do as you please.
international trade, as the city is almost exactly Your Program Director will be happy to
half way between New York and Tokyo. recommend a spot for lunch and free time
activities.
Dinner/Evening: Continue making independent
discoveries this evening, with dinner on your Dinner: At a local restaurant in Anchorage.
own. Ask your Program Director for restaurant Savor the flavors of Alaska and toast to your
recommendations. discoveries during this Farewell Dinner.
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
Day 10 Anchorage
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
• Destination: Anchorage Program Director for recommendations.
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
• Accommodations: Sheraton Anchorage Hotel Day 11 Depart Anchorage
& Spa or similar
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Breakfast: At the hotel.
Activity Note: If you are arranging your own
Morning: Set off for the picturesque city of airfare, we recommend departing in the
Palmer where you’ll visit a musk ox farm. These evening or the following morning in order to
bearded beasts appear to be straight out of participate in today’s included activities. Our
the Ice Age with their thick fur coats, massive Travel Counselors can help you arrange a day
hoofs, and intimidating horns. Because of the room or overnight accommodations. If you
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
17choose to join us on our post-trip extension, Next, travel to Mount Alyeska, where you’ll
then you’ll depart the hotel this morning and board a tram for a scenic ride to the mountain’s
board a motorcoach set for Valdez, Alaska. The peak. You’ll ascend more than 2,000 feet to
activities that the rest of the group will be the summit, the gorgeous scenery of Alaska
participating in today, will be included on Day 4 unfolding beneath you as you rise. Enjoy
of this optional extension. panoramic views of expansive glaciers,
snowcapped peaks, and lush forests stretching
Breakfast: At the hotel.
into the horizon. If you’re lucky you might
Morning: Travelers joining us on our post-trip even be able to spot bears, moose, and other
extension will depart the hotel this morning wildlife going about their business in the
and begin their journey to Valdez, Alaska. The landscape below.
rest of the group will discover what life is
Lunch: Enjoy an included lunch at the top of
like for an Alaskan bush pilot at the Aviation
the mountain, with panoramic views of the
Museum. The location of the museum—on the
landscape below as your backdrop.
shores of Lake Hood—sees the most seaplane
traffic in the world with around 85,000 Afternoon: Return to your hotel in Anchorage,
departures and arrivals annually. Today, you where you can take care of any remaining
may see some of the planes in action, and business before your trip home.
you’ll also get a glimpse of air travel in Alaska
Evening: Transfer to the airport for your
when you see photographs, films, and antiques
flight home.
depicting aviation throughout Alaska’s history.
END YOUR TRIP WITH AN OPTIONAL POST-TRIP EXTENSION
3 nights in Valdez, Alaska
Day 1 Arrive Valdez, Alaska Day 3 Valdez • Fly to Anchorage
Day 2 Valdez • Prince William Day 4 Depart Anchorage
Sound cruise
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
18PRE-TRIP
Juneau, Alaska
INCLUDED IN YOUR PRICE
» Accommodations for 3 nights » Gratuities for local guides and motorcoach
» 5 meals: 3 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 1 dinner drivers on your extension and all
optional tours
» 2 included tours: Mendenhall Glacier,
Cruise on Mendenhall Lake » Exclusive services of a local Grand Circle
Program Director
» All transfers
PRE-TRIP EXTENSION ITINERARY
Situated on the banks of the Gastineau Channel, opposite Mount Juneau, Alaska’s capital boasts spectacular
scenery. Travel just outside of the city to find the Mendenhall Glacier. Admire this glistening icy-blue treasure
up close during a hike. And, discover the mix of natural and urban settings on this optional extension when
you also experience the bustling atmosphere of Juneau’s city center.
Day 1 Arrive Juneau, Alaska heavily streaked with gold along the Gold Creek.
Within 15 days, they had staked out a township
• Destination: Juneau
originally named Harrisburgh. In 1881, the
• Accommodations: Four Points by Sheraton
miner residents decided there were too many
Juneau or similar
places in America named Harrisburgh, and
Morning: Fly to Juneau, Alaska’s capital and renamed the town Juneau. In a quarter of a
one of the most scenically stunning cities in the century, it grew from a Gold Rush boomtown to
United States. the state capital.
Afternoon: Upon arrival, a Grand Circle Dinner: On your own—ask your Program
representative will meet you and assist with Director for local restaurant recommendations.
the transfer to your hotel, where you’ll meet
your Program Director. Then, the rest of the Evening: Your Program Director will lead
day is free for your own discoveries—ask your you on a short orientation walk around the
Program Director for recommendations. vicinity of your hotel to point out restaurant
recommendations, ATMs, and where to spend
In addition to its gorgeous scenery, green your free time.
vegetation and its amazing location on the
Gastineau Channel, Juneau has a fascinating
history. On October 4, 1880, Richard Harris and
Joe Juneau, guided by Chief Kowee of the Tlingit
Auk clan, discovered quartz outcroppings
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
19Day 2 Juneau • Mendenhall Glacier visit Afterwards, you’ll return to Juneau.
• Destination: Juneau Lunch/Afternoon: Yours to do as you please.
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Your Program Director will be happy to
• Accommodations: Four Points by Sheraton recommend a spot for lunch and free time
Juneau or similar activities.
Breakfast: At the hotel. Dinner: At a local restaurant in Juneau,
featuring traditional cuisine.
Morning: You’ll kick off your discoveries by
setting off to see the glistening Mendenhall Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
Glacier. Gaze upon 13 miles of ice wedged rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
between two mountains, seemingly being Program Director for recommendations.
squeezed out into Mendenhall Lake. Back at the
Visitor Center, learn more about this natural
Day 4 Arrive Fairbanks, Alaska
wonder before setting off on a short walk to get
• Destination: Fairbanks
an up-close view of a roaring waterfall tucked
within Tongass National Forest. • Included Meals: Breakfast
Breakfast: At the hotel.
After, you’ll return to Juneau.
Morning: Depart the hotel and head to the
Lunch: At a local restaurant in Juneau,
airport to catch a flight to Fairbanks.
featuring traditional cuisine.
Lunch: On your own. You may choose to grab
Afternoon: Free for your own discoveries—ask
lunch in Juneau before your flight or when you
your Program Director for recommendations.
arrive at the airport.
Dinner/Evening: Continue making independent
Afternoon: Arrive in Fairbanks and begin your
discoveries this evening, with dinner on your
Alaskan Discovery: Denali National Park & the
own. Ask your Program Director for restaurant
Kenai Fjords vacation.
recommendations.
Day 3 Juneau • Whale watching cruise
• Destination: Juneau
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
• Accommodations: Four Points by Sheraton
Juneau or similar
Breakfast: At the hotel.
Morning: Keep your eyes peeled for a glimpse
of a whale breaching or gliding along the
water’s surface during a cruise along the
Gastineau Channel this morning. Alaska is
home to myriad whale species, including the
great humpback whales, beautiful orcas, and
lovable beluga whales.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
20POST-TRIP
Valdez, Alaska
INCLUDED IN YOUR PRICE
» Accommodations for 3 nights » Gratuities for local guides and motorcoach
» 7 meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, drivers on your extension and all
and 1 dinner optional tours
» 1 included tour: Prince William » Exclusive services of a local Grand Circle
Sound cruise Program Director
» All transfers
POST-TRIP EXTENSION ITINERARY
Valdez’s story is one of resilience. The city faced a devastating earthquake and tsunami in 1964 only to rebuild
and then combat the detrimental environmental impacts of an oil spill in Prince William Sound in 1989.
Today, Valdez is a city that proudly displays its history while aiming to also preserve its natural beauty. During
this optional extension, enjoy a cruise on Prince William Sound to discover the flora and fauna that thrives
here, and behold a spectacular collection of around 150 glaciers located along the water’s edge.
Day 1 Arrive Valdez, Alaska Afternoon: You’ll continue on, stopping early
this afternoon at the Thompson Pass outlook.
• Destination: Valdez
Nestled between the Chugach Mountains,
• Included Meals: Lunch
Thompson Pass is known as Alaska’s snowiest
• Accommodations: Totem Hotel and Suites
location, with around 500 inches falling
or similar
annually. After taking some time to absorb the
Activity Note: The total travel time to Valdez is natural beauty of this landscape, you’ll finish
7 hours with stops along the way. the last leg of your journey to Valdez, arriving
later this afternoon.
Breakfast: At the hotel.
Upon arrival, you’ll check in at your hotel and
Morning: You’ll say goodbye to your Alaskan
enjoy some free time to get settled or start
Discovery: Denali National Park & the Kenai Fjords
exploring on your own.
group and depart the hotel in Anchorage. Board
a motorcoach set for Valdez and begin your Dinner/Evening: Continue making independent
7-hour journey to the “snow capital.” discoveries this evening, with dinner on your
own. Ask your Program Director for restaurant
Lunch: At a local restaurant along the way in
recommendations.
Glenallen.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
21Day 2 Valdez • Prince William Sound cruise Day 3 Valdez • Fly to Anchorage
• Destination: Valdez • Destination: Anchorage
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner • Included Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodations: Totem Hotel and Suites • Accommodations: Sheraton Anchorage Hotel
or similar & Spa or similar
Breakfast: At the hotel. Breakfast: At the hotel.
Morning: You’ll set off for the Prince William Morning: You’ll depart the hotel and set off
Sound this morning for a 6-hour cruise. The for the airport where you’ll catch a flight to
sparkling blue waters of forest-shrouded, Anchorage.
isle-studded Prince William Sound are a
Lunch: On your own—ask your Program
playground both for boaters and marine
Director for local restaurant recommendations.
mammals. Keep an eye out for orcas’ dorsal
fins cutting the surface of the water, harbor Afternoon: Upon arrival, you’ll transfer to your
seals dancing in the sea, and seagulls soaring hotel and check in. Then, enjoy the rest of the
overhead. And, gaze out at glaciers—around afternoon to relax or explore at your own pace.
150 of them—glistening along the water’s You might explore the city center where you
edge—at times calving icebergs into the blue can browse the myriad shops or grab a coffee at
expanse of the sound. a local café.
Lunch: Included onboard during your cruise. Dinner/Evening: Continue making independent
discoveries this evening, with dinner on your
Afternoon: Continue cruising until later this
own. Ask your Program Director for restaurant
afternoon when you have free time to explore as
recommendations.
you please. Perhaps you’ll take kayaks out onto
the waters of Prince William Sound to see this
stunning landscape from another perspective, Day 4 Depart Anchorage
or you may choose to visit the Valdez Museum. • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Here, you’ll find a wealth of information
Activity Note: If you are arranging your own
about the history of the city. Learn about the
airfare, we recommend departing in the
detrimental effects an oil spill in 1989 had
evening or the following morning in order to
on Prince William Sound’s environment, and
participate in today’s included activities. Our
discover more about a devastating earthquake
Travel Counselors can help you arrange a day
that shook the city in 1964, which produced an
room or overnight accommodations.
equally destructive tsunami.
Breakfast: At the hotel.
Dinner: Included at a local restaurant, featuring
traditional cuisine. Morning: discover what life is like for an
Alaskan bush pilot at the Aviation Museum.
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
The location of the museum—on the shores of
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
Lake Hood—sees the most seaplane traffic in
Program Director for recommendations.
the world with around 85,000 departures and
arrivals annually. Today, you may see some
of the planes in action, and you’ll also get a
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
22glimpse of air travel in Alaska when you see
photographs, films, and antiques depicting
aviation throughout Alaska’s history.
Next, travel to Mount Alyeska, where you’ll
board a tram for a scenic ride to the mountain’s
peak. You’ll ascend more than 2,000 feet to
the summit, the gorgeous scenery of Alaska
unfolding beneath you as you rise. Enjoy
panoramic views of expansive glaciers,
snowcapped peaks, and lush forests stretching
into the horizon. If you’re lucky you might even
be able to spot bears, moose, and other wildlife
going about their business in the fields below.
Lunch: Enjoy an included lunch at the top of
the mountain, with panoramic views of the
landscape below as your backdrop.
Afternoon: Return to your hotel in Anchorage.
Evening: Transfer to the airport for your
flight home.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
23ALASKAN DISCOVERY: RISK-FREE BOOKING POLICY: RESERVE WITH
CONFIDENCE—NOW THROUGH 12/31/21
DENALI NATIONAL PARK & We will waive any change fees if you transfer to another departure date for
any reason—up until 24 hours prior to departure.
THE KENAI FJORDS See details at www.gct.com/riskfree-booking.
2022 DATES & PRICES
DEPART FROM: MAY; SEPTEMBER JUNE-AUGUST
Seattle $5995 $6195
Los Angeles, Phoenix, Portland, San Diego,
$6095 $6295
San Francisco
Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Denver,
Detroit, Houston, Miami, Minneapolis, New York, $6195 $6395
Newark, Orlando, Tampa, Washington, DC
Philadelphia $6295 $6495
Land tour only $5195 $5395
Additional departure cities are available. Upgrade to Business Class may be available for the international portion of your flight. Call for details. AKS2022
Prices are per person. Airfare prices include government taxes, fees, and airline fuel surcharges. All prices and availability are effective as of the date of
this publication, and are subject to change without notice. Standard Terms & Conditions apply, please visit our website: www.gct.com/tc. Every effort
has been made to produce this information accurately. We reserve the right to correct errors.
For specific departure dates, current availability, and detailed pricing, visit www.gct.com/aks2022pricing
SAVE UP TO 10% WITH OUR FREE SINGLE SUPPLEMENTS
on your main trip and extensions. SHARE YOUR LOVE OF TRAVEL
GOOD BUY PLAN
New travelers you refer will instantly
The earlier you reserve your departure We don’t charge you more for your save $100, and you’ll earn increasing
and pay in full, the more you’ll save—up own room. rewards—up to a FREE trip!
to 10%—plus, you’ll lock in your price.
Each departure has limited solo space For details, visit www.gct.com/va
For details, visit www.gct.com/gbd available—call today.
Publication Date: 3/25/21
1-800-221-2610 • www.gct.com/aks2022
24RIGORS, VACCINES & GENERAL HEALTH
Keep Your Abilities In Mind
Please review the information below prior to departing on this trip. We reserve the right for our
Program Directors to modify participation, or in some circumstances send travelers home if their
limitations are impacting the group’s experience.
GROUP SIZE
• A maximum of 42 travelers, led by a local Grand Circle Program Director
PACING
• 5 locations in 10 days
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
• Walk 1-2 miles unassisted and participate in 2-3 hours of physical activities daily
• Travelers using walkers, crutches, or other mobility aids must travel with a companion who
can assist them
• We reserve the right for Program Directors to restrict participation, or in some
circumstances send travelers home, if their limitations impact the group’s experience
TERRAIN & TRANSPORTATION
• Uneven and slippery walking surfaces, including unpaved paths
• Travel by motorcoach, and public transportation that requires ability to stand up and hold
handles while vehicle is in motion
• Public transportation including bus, train, and boat
• Balance and agility is required on the boat
CLIMATE
• Daytime temperatures range from 60-80°F during touring season
• Nighttime temperatures can fall to 40-50°F
Health Check
Feeling healthy and confident of your mobility is essential to fully enjoy your trip. If you
have ongoing medical conditions or concerns about your health, we highly recommend that
you schedule a checkup with your personal physician at least six weeks in advance of your
departure date.
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