Alaska

Just in time for dad's 70th birthday, I had the opportunity to fulfil his lifelong dream of visiting Alaska (USA).

We began our adventure in Anchorage with a walk around downtown and a chance to explore the Sunday markets, views over Cook Inlet and a stroll through the many green spaces. From Anchorage, we headed south along the spectacular Seward Hwy along Turnagain Arm to the Kenai Peninsula, visiting Portage, Seward, Cooper Landing and Homer.

Heading north, we took a hike at Eagle River and Eklutna Lake in the magnificent Chugach State Park, then on to Denali National Park and Preserve for a glimpse of North America's highest peak. A leisurely drive to Fairbanks saw us shivering in this cold northern city, so it was good to then relax in the hot waters of Chena Hot Springs.

Following the Trans-Alaska Pipeline, we arrived in the spectacular port of Valdez before our last leg, through the impressive Matanuska-Susitna Valley for a day's exploration of Independence Mine and back to Anchorage.

The long hours of daylight, impressive, snow covered peaks and the beauty of the wildlife and scenery will be treasured memories for a lifetime.