Expert: Michael Donaldson - 7/21/2004

Question
My fiance and I are planning to honeymoon in Alaska.  No firm decisions have been made as yet and we are still waiting to see if the finances will permit us (we are from Australia).  We are getting married 26 March 2005 and would be looking at leaving a few days after the wedding.  All our brochures etc only have cruises and tours which start in May (assume this is because of the weather).  Could you please give me a bit of info on the weather around this time.  We both love the cold but we are worried that at this time we may end up seeing nothing.  We would be looking at seeing all the beautiful things Alaska has to offer as well as some relaxing in a cabin by the fire!  Your help is really appreciated.

Jodie

Answer
Hi Jodie!

First of all, congratulations on your upcoming wedding.  I think it's awesome that you're even considering going to Alaska for your honeymoon...especially all the way from Australia.  (By the way, I helped another couple from your country about 18 months ago with their plans to visit Niagara Falls during their world tour -- they even adjusted their travel plans just to come visit me and my family here in Wisconsin...I was so flattered!)

Anyway, let's get to your question now:
Well, as far as weather in March, you've probably guessed correctly that "weather" might be a factor in what you'll see or be able to do while in Alaska.  Even though March might be a questionable time to come visit "Gods Playground", there is still lots to do, but it depends on WHERE in Alaska you do your traveling.

If you want my honest opinion, I would highly suggest holding off on your honeymoon until at least May or June to get the most "bang for your buck" (as they say in America).  But if you both have your hearts set on going to Alaska in March, by all means, do it.  But, (I'm doing too many "but's" in this letter aint I?) if you do decide to come then, I would plan your trip more for the southeast panhandle area at and around Juneau, Ketchikan, Sitka, and perhaps no farther north than Anchorage.  The temperatures would range from around -10 celsius to a high of 8 celsius in these more temperate areas of Alaska. (of course Fairbanks will still have lots of snow and low temps hovering around -20 celsius at this same time...but hey, that's an option too)

One of thee biggest events in Alaska takes place during March, and that's the world reknown Iditarod Dogsled Race which starts in Anchorage.  Plus there would still be plenty of museums, gift shops, and good restaurants open.  I'm just afraid that during March, there COULD be many places you were interested to see or spend time at, that might be closed for the season...but I don't know exactly what would be, or not be, open in March -- it would be a gamble Jodie.  That's much too far and way too expensive to take a chance like that, so that is the only reason I highly advise holding off on your honeymoon until May if you could...I know in my heart and from personal experience while living there, that you both would enjoy yourselves so much better then, than in March.

I hope that I helped you out a little, and I'm sorry I don't have a better answer for you.  Please feel free to write me back at my regular e-mail address: LASKANWLF@AOL.COM if you decide to actually go to Alaska and what month you decided on, and I can provide you with more travel details and helpful hints, ok?  Take care Jodie.

  Michael Donaldson