Here's a picture of my young family when I took a family group of Newfoundlanders to Alaska several years ago. Alaska really is a destination that works for everyone, as it's both child-friendly to senior-friendly - and you can be as active (or not) as you choose.

As we pass the mid-point of September, this is also a time for remembering as we transition from summer to fall. We mark losses of loved ones, and passages of time as new chapters open. New beginnings start.

September is always poignant. We marked the 18th anniversary of 9/11 this week. I watched "You Are Here - a Come from Away Story" which premiered on HBO Canada this week. Did you see it? (I have a trailer below. I think it played in theaters in the US this year.) The documentary tells the tale of the 38 planes carrying 7000 people that landed in the town of 9000 people in Gander on 9/11 (with real-time video), and how that small town fed, clothed, and offered comfort to passengers for 5 days (in spite of worries that the planes diverted to Newfoundland may carry other terrorists or bombs). I am, and always will be, proud to be a Newfoundlander; and this documentary shows the beauty of my home. Watch it. 

If you want to visit my home province of Newfoundland, of course, you know I have you covered.

Same with Alaska.

Alaska is very similar to Newfoundland. as the group of Newfoundlanders I'd taken to Alaska a few years ago discovered. We had an awesome time cruising, and being together - but we were struck by the similarities in terms of the way the land sloped and cut into the ocean. There was also the small towns dotting the coast, the friendliness of the people, and the prevalence of much of the same wildlife (bears, seals, moose, salmon, etc), as well as the nature (icebergs, cooler weather, unexpected rain turning to sun, etc). Of course, the glaciers are amazing in Alaska, and they were a sight to behold.

September is when we typically near the end of the Alaska cruising season, which is generally May-October. Which means that this is the prime time for people to be booking Alaska for next year's vacation.

Does Alaska interest you?

Alaska is one of those destinations that is on many people's bucket list. I have some clients starting a cruise today, and we're going to meet up in Vancouver next weekend. I'll be hosting a group to do the Rocky Mountaineer train through the majestic Rockies. More on the train will follow, of course, over the coming weeks, as I'll share updates and photos - but - did you know that 50% of the people who book the Rocky Mountaineer also do an Alaska cruise?

Alaska itself does draw people in - with or without the train add on. It really is wonderful to see and experience, and the majesty of the glaciers is fantastic to take in.