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Worth the hair-raising drive. When we got to the end, there were no lodgings so we had to drive back to central Maui. At least we learned it’s doable—the way back is certainly less crowded, if scarier!

A completely unique town. I recall the popular restaurant’s buffet, consisting of smoked fish and other Scandinavian-esque fare, didn’t look too appealing, so we had Chinese instead.

Let’s just say this trip is more enjoyable when you are of drinking age. The vineyards are all beautiful. Good to know: we were also able to camp here because hotels were so expensive.

So intensely gorgeous! Where else can a city slicker see bears and sheep and eagles and and wolves and buffalo? You just better enjoy buses, because the ride into the park will take all day.

You know Michelle Shocked’s big hit that goes “You know you’re in the largest state in the union when you’re anchored down in Anchorage?” Well, I felt Fairbanks was more vast, but the point is the same. This place feels detached from the rest of the US, in an exciting way. Definitely a frontier city that’s I don’t think is very touristy.

Came through on a cruise. Definitely do a lap on the piers, but then take a walk about a mile out of town to watch totem poles being carved. Without any other means of getting away from tourist throngs, this is the best move you can make.

Fairbanks was my favorite city in Alaska. There’s a lot going on there because of the University, and it has a relaxed, smart vibe for whatever reason. Plus, it’s near North Pole, AK which is worth a kitschy detour.

An excellent base for outdoor activities—we took a helicopter to a glacier, and we went whale-watching. Certainly the most beautiful state capitol I can think of!

I work in Manhattan and lived in “the city” for 3 years. There’s a neighborhood for everyone. Cleaned up though it may be, this is where culture - music, art, drama, food - is being made. “New York” is a feeling that gets into your system and can’t be shaken.

A quick trip from Budapest, Szentendre is a historic preserved town right on the Danube. We were there in winter, but I bet it’s really lovely in the summer.