Do you dream of seeing the Northern Lights? I do. While visiting Alaska last summer (Aug 2020), I found out that the aurora borealis begins dancing in the sky from August 21 to April 21. You guessed it. I plan a trip in to make my true. Since Covid continues, airfare is reasonable. Lucky me steals a deal on 1st class with American Airlines, my carrier of choice. Then I proceed to reserve a room at Chena Hot Springs Resort. Im on a roll. The rental cars are a bit scarce, but I secure one. I like to Unpack the Trip b4 Takeoff which is an eBook that I wrote about my travel tips, planning and advice for a successful as well as enjoyable adventure. My goal is to have an expectation of what I will encounter and plan accordingly but always allowing time for spontaneity.
The airport scene is calm today. We drop by the Admirals Club for a cocktail to toast a good trip. TIP: Day passes to the Admirals club can
be purchased for entry. Boarding the flight, I select a window seat to take in the view as we make the journey from DFW Worth) to FAI (Fairbanks). Our flight is a long, one. to Fairbanks. If you have read my other blogs, you know I look for signs to snap a photo. FAI has just what I want for my first photo op. We must wait an hour to pick up the rental car. During the wait, acquaintances are made with a couple from San Diego. We pass the time in line chatting about what we plan to see while in the area. After the long wait, the agent offered me a SUV for my patience. I happily say, yes when he states, we have a new blue Toyota 4Runner. I accept it with a big smile. Now, I know lady luck is on my side. This is going to be a great trip!
We arrived late in the evening, so I reserved a hotel near the airport months ago based on the reviews. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Fairbanks Airport does not let me down. Spacious room and very clean.
TIP: They offer a shuttle to the airport if needed. After a good nights sleep and hot breakfast at the hotel, we make our way to the North Pole. Not the actual North Pole but home of Christmas and best known for the Santa Claus House. Its a short drive from the hotel on St Nicholas Dr. Theres a huge Santa with sleigh outside for photo ops, the walls of the building have beautifully painted holiday scenes and inside gifts galore. I enjoy browsing and get in line to have my picture taken with Mr. & Mrs. Claus. Hello Santa. Before leaving I sample the fudge and yes, a with me. On the way out, theres the cool couple from the airport. Coincidence? Its a sunny, pleasant day. Perfect for the drive to Chena Hot Springs Resort. The countryside is very scenic. Arriving at the resort around 3pm and is not until 5, we walk around the property to stretch our legs a bit. The drive here was about an hour. My room is on the second floor of the Moose Lodge with a good view of the mountainside. TIP: No elevator. Upstairs is quieter but
you must carry up the suitcases. Luckily for me, a handsome man hears me talking on my phone and offers to carry my luggage up to my room for me. How Sweet! We chat a bit and he goes on his way. Dinner is at the resort as there is nowhere to get food other than here unless you drive all the way back to Fairbanks. TIP: You may have to wait a while for a table. I like to eat early so my wait was only a few minutes. Food here is locally grown and from its own greenhouse which Ill tour tomorrow. After settling into the room and relaxing a bit, its time to prepare for our 9:30pm Aurora Viewing Tour. We arrive early for the best seats. Eight people fit into the military looking SUV which is like a tank. We rode the SUSV (Small Unit Support Vehicle) up the bumpy two miles to the mountaintop. Charlie Dome is where we will spend the next 4 hours stargazing and watching for the Northern Lights. There are Porta Potties and a yurt to keep you warm and serve hot beverages. There are probably 50 or more folks with
us in total.
