Are Chinchillas illegal in Alaska?

Living in Alaska and Where to visit?

• Hi, I never been anywhere outside Connecticut and the area. I just graduated college a year and half ago. I am 25 years old. I was offered a job offer in Alaska. I have a year to decide, January 2013. I trying to save some money up, but before I decide was planning on vesting in September. Any ideas on a what to see on a 3 to 4 day trip to Alaska? I was looking into vacation packages, but really want to leave experience how life will be living here. I have three months of a stipend for food and housing. After three months find a place to stay. How is renting property in Alaska? Base salary will be $42,000. Will be working in Southern Alaska on the coast. Second thing transportation. Looking to buy a car. New or used. Will it cost more in Alaska? Do you enjoy living in Alaska? I enjoy the outdoors. I try to fish, love to hike, love to run especially on trails, enjoy camping, and scenic views. I am use to winter. I more into spring, summer, and fall then am into winter. I can handle the season, but do a lot more in the three other seasons. I am hoping my girlfriend will come with me. She enjoys the small town life, but does enjoy being a town over from a big city in the state. Are there museums, malls, brand name stores in Alaska? Appreciate the response.

• Answer:

  First, maybe spend more than 3-4 days. Travel here will be a significant inbvestment of time adn money, you might as well extend it if at all possible. Southern Alaska on the coast could be many places. How about a community name? Anchorage is the biggest city, and is on the southern coast (kind of). Check Craigslist for rent and cars to get an idea. Museum, malls, stores in AK? Yes. How much depends on where you are going on the southern coast. I've lived here 50+years. There is plenty of outdoor activity available that you mention. You're used to seasons. Our winter is longer than most. You can consider mid-october though maybe mid-april to be winter in Anchorage. That is 6 months.