Known as “The Last Frontier” for its vast area of wilderness,
Alaska's quality of life is exhibited through its cultural and recreational
opportunities, economic development and breathtaking scenic beauty. Alaska communities
range from remote wooded areas to bustling cities and rural farming regions,
with plenty of affordable housing options available throughout the area. While
some Alaskans choose an isolated and independent life in backwoods homesteads,
most live in areas with modern conveniences and stores nearby. The more populated
and places like Anchorage feature a variety of amenities, including performing
arts, children’s entertainment and recreation, sporting events, live concerts,
bars and restaurants as well as modern health care facilities. Anchorage also
boasts a thriving international airport and air-cargo industry, a growing tourism
economy (even in the winter), and a construction industry with almost steady
employment levels for the past 10 years. Parents are provided with several educational
options for their children, including stand-alone programs from grade school
through high school. The Alaska Department of Education has also implemented
new testing requirements to continue promoting academic excellence and higher
education is available through a statewide university system. Alaska is accessible
by aircraft, ferryboat and the Alaska Highway. However, if you take a stroll
off the beaten path, you will discover a remarkably varied landscape, from the
volcanoes in the Valley of the Ten Thousand Smokes to remains of the leftover
mines from the gold rush.
