Anchorage and Anguilla: Difference between pages

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[[Image:FAVOR.jpg|thumb|370px|Skyline of Anchorage]]
|image=[[Image:Sandy_Ground_Anguilla.jpg|noframe|250px]]

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'''Anchorage''' [http://www.anchorage.net/] is the largest city in [[Alaska]], located in the [[Southcentral Alaska|Southcentral]] region. Anchorage is a cosmopolitan port city with a population of over 300,000. Anchorage is a municipality: essentially a combined city and county. The city itself defined by Muldoon Road to the east, Rabbit Creek Road to the south, and Cook Inlet to the north and west. Several small suburbs are within the Municipality of Anchorage, while physically outside the City of Anchorage.
|flag=[[Image:av-flag.png]]

|capital=[[The Valley]]
==Overview==
|government=dependency of the [[United Kingdom]]
===Climate===
|currency=East Caribbean dollar (XCD)
{{ClimateFahrenheit
|area=102 sq km
| janhigh =22
|population=13,477 (July 2006 est.)
| febhigh =26
|language=English (official)
| marhigh =34
|religion=Anglican 40%, Methodist 33%, Seventh-Day Adventist 7%, Baptist 5%, Roman Catholic 3%, other 12%
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|electricity=120V/60Hz (North American plug)
| mayhigh =55
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'''Anguilla''' is a small island nation in the [[Caribbean]], a few miles north of [[Saint Martin]].


[[Image:av-map.png|frame|right|Map of Anguilla]]
==Get in==
Anchorage is served by most major American airlines. Air travel is the cheapest and most efficient form of transportation in and out of the state. Non-stop flights are available from Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Minneapolis, Chicago, and Taipei year-round, and more locations in the summer. Many arriving and departing out-of-state flights are late-night "red-eyes," but there are often many daytime flights to and from Seattle. Anchorage recently completed extensive remodeling and construction at '''Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport'''({{IATA|ANC}}) ({{ICAO|PANC}})[http://www.dot.state.ak.us/anc/index.shtml] to help accommodate the upsurge in tourism (unofficial sources have estimated the numbers for 2004 at some four million tourists arriving in Alaska between May and September).


==Villages==
Anchorage is also accessible from the contiguous U.S. (locally referred to as "the Lower 48") and Canada via road. The [[Alaska Highway]] starts in northern [[British Columbia]] and terminates in [[Fairbanks]]. You can either get to Anchorage via the Parks Highway from Fairbanks or the Glenn Highway from Tok (the first major Alaskan town after crossing the Canadian border). The Seward Highway serves traffic entering Anchorage from the Kenai Peninsula to the south and its Alaska Marine Highway System terminals.
*[[The Valley]] - the capital


*[[Blowing Point]]
Make sure to pick up a copy of [http://www.themilepost.com The Milepost], which is widely regarded as the premiere road guide for western Canada and Alaska. Most roads in these regions have small white posts every mile or so indicating the number of miles from the start of the road. The Milepost has extremely detailed route descriptions of all of the roads, pointing out everything from scenic viewpoints and campgrounds down to the names of small creeks the roads pass over. If you're flying in to Anchorage and then driving around the state, wait and pick up a copy of The Milepost at one of the local Costcos or WalMarts--the price there is around half of list price.
*[[Island Harbour]]
*[[Sandy Ground]]
*[[West End Village]]


==Other destinations==
Many cruise lines provide transportation from their terminals to Anchorage and may even include tours or your return air travel out of the state.


*[[Meads Bay]]
==Get around==
*[[Rendezvous Bay]]
While not nearly comparable to the size of major world cities, the developed part of the Municipality of Anchorage (the city itself is several thousand square miles, but much of it is uninhabited and mountainous) is fairly spread out and not very walkable--with the exception of the compact downtown area.
*[[Sandy Hill Bay]]
*[[Scrub Island]]


==Understand==
Most of Anchorage is built on a grid system laid out by originally by the railroad: numbered streets run east-west, starting at First Avenue in the extreme north of the city (at the Port and train depot) and ending up in the mid-hundreds at the south edge of town. Lettered streets run north-south, starting at A Street in the middle of downtown and going up to the west; east of A Street, the street names begin with sequential letters and are named after Alaskan cities and towns (Barrow, Cordova, Denali, etc.). This makes finding yourself on a map fairly easy, although the system gets less coherent outside of the downtown area. Note that the Seward Highway becomes Gambell and Ingra streets, while the Glenn Highway becomes 5th and 6th Avenues.


Anguilla was colonized by English settlers from Saint Kitts in 1650, and administered by Great Britain until the early 19th century, when the island - against the wishes of the inhabitants - was incorporated into a single UK dependency along with Saint Kitts and Nevis. Several attempts at separation failed. In 1971, two years after a revolt, Anguilla was finally allowed to secede; this arrangement was formally recognized in 1980 with Anguilla becoming a separate UK dependency.
You'll often hear Anchorageites use the following terms when describing areas of town - these areas were originally separate communities that merged as the city grew:
*Downtown--the historic core of the city located at the northwestern tip next to the waterfront; home to most of the tourist activities, gift stores, hotels, and the railroad depot
*Midtown--the largely commercial area immediately south of Downtown roughly between 15th Avenue and Tudor Road
*South Anchorage--Dimond Boulevard and south. Largely suburban and residential with some major commercial development west of the Seward Highway.
*West Anchorage--the area along the water southwest of Downtown, encompassing the historic Bootlegger's Cove residential area and the famous Earthquake Park
*Spenard--smashed between Midtown and West Anchorage and spilling over and overlapping the boundaries a bit, it was formerly a separate city and catered to the more, er, racy aspects of Anchorage living. It's still a bit of a red-light district. Be careful at night. (The airport is at the extreme west end of the Anchorage peninsula and abuts the southwestern edge of Spenard.)
*East Anchorage--everything east of the Seward Highway and north of Tudor Road. Mostly residential.
*Hillside--part of South Anchorage, it's everything east of the Seward Highway and south of Abbott Road. Completely residential, and most homes there are ritzier ($350k and up to over $1.5M, where the average home is about $220k). Anchorageites think of the Hillside like Angelenos do of Beverly Hills--if you own a home there, you must be doing well, even if the trees (or your snowmachine trailer) blocks your view of the lesser people below). Above the Hillside homes is the immense Chugach State Park, popular for easily accessible hiking. (The most-hiked mountain in Alaska, Flattop Mountain, is fairly easily accessed via the Glen Alps parking area at the top of Upper Huffman Road.)
*Eagle River, Chugiak, Peters Creek--bedroom suburbs north of the city. Residential only, but provide access to the State Park, especially the Eklutna lake.
*Bird, Indian, Girdwood--small communities south of the city. Very small, tourist service oriented.


Anguilla has few natural resources, and the economy depends heavily on luxury tourism, offshore banking, lobster fishing, and remittances from emigrants. Increased activity in the tourism industry, which has spurred the growth of the construction sector, has contributed to economic growth.
Anchorage's public transportation system does not cover the entire city, and some areas of town have less frequent bus service than others (See [http://peoplemover.org Peoplemover.Org] for complete schedules & routes. Fares are currently $1.75 one-way). As such, most people who want to travel in and around Anchorage rent a car.


===Geography===
Anchorage's Ted Stevens International Airport is serviced by all of the major national rental car chains as well as a number of independents. A few companies have off-airport locations. Renting from these locations avoids the 11-12% airport concession recovery fee. If you're arriving in the summer, plan ahead, as most rental companies are pretty much sold out from mid-June through the end of August. In the summer, cars are often not available without reservations, and even if they are, be prepared to pay top-dollar for them, especially four-wheel-drive vehicles.


Anguilla is a flat and low-lying island of coral and limestone. The highest point is Crocus Hill, at 65 meters.
Two main taxi companies serve the Anchorage area: Alaska Yellow Cab and Checker Cab; another company called Aurora Taxi seems to be making a growing appearance. The airport maintains a taxi stand on the arrivals level. As of late 2007, the municipality-set rate for all taxis is $2.00 for the flag drop and $2.00 per mile; the time-based rate is $.50 per minute. The average fare to downtown runs about $15 one way.


==Get in==
Many hotels offer also courtesy shuttle vans that stop at the airport near the taxi stand. Several courtesy phone banks are located inside the baggage claim areas.


===By plane===
If you're determined to save money, you can use the PeopleMover, Anchorage's bus system. [http://www.muni.org/transit1/index.cfm] As of late 2007, fares are $1.75 per trip or $4 for a day pass. Most bus routes have one bus in each direction per hour, but some routes increase it to two buses per hour during peak times. Buses are frequently late. Route 7 of the PeopleMover, Anchorage's bus system, has a stop located at the far south end of the airport taxi stand area. Every hour, there is one bus going downtown and one bus going to the Dimond Center mall in south Anchorage. If you're riding the bus to the airport, note that only one out of two trips on Route 7 stops at the airport, so look for the airplane icon on the bus route display.


American Eagle (the commuter subsidiary of the largest airline in the world, American Airlines) provides non-stop, 72 seat aircraft, service to San Juan, Puerto Rico. Once in San Juan, one may connect using American Airlines, or their Oneworld Alliance partner Iberia (to Madrid Spain), to 35 destinations in the United States and in the Caribbean.
Anchorage features an extremely well-developed bike trail system, with over 200 miles of developed trails (120 of which are paved) winding their way throughout the city's parks and three green belts. The popular Tony Knowles Coastal Trail parallels the waterfront from Downtown to Kincaid Park near the airport. Several companies offer bike rentals and trail tours. In the winter, many of the trails are groomed and used as ski trails.
Liat provides once daily service to St. Thomas, and onwards to other destinations in the Caribbean.


It may be easier to access Anguilla via St. Maarten, which can be reached non-stop from many eastern U.S. cities, as well as European cities. From there, Winair operates flights which can take 8 minutes to reach Anguilla from St.Maarten. Many visitors charter boats privately from the pier near Princess Julianna Airport in St. Maarten to Anguilla.
Be cautious during any time of the year for, relative to areas outside of Anchorage, drivers may tend to be aggressive--even in the winter-time. During the summer months, the roads are usually in bad condition from all the wear and tear of the winter with tremendous ruts in the road caused by studded tires; try and stay out of those to avoid tearing the road (or your car's alignment) up any more. In the winter, roads can be totally covered in ice, snow, and black ice--an invisible ice that's extremely dangerous--although heavier-trafficked roads can actually be surprisingly dry if it hasn't snowed in awhile. Especially if you're not used to driving in winter conditions, drive the speed limit (or slower) in the winter and stay in the right-hand lanes unless passing. Tip: If it's snowing, no matter what time of the day, have your headlights on! (Also note the Seward Highway south of Anchorage requires headlights to be on at all times.)


==See==
===By boat===
* '''Alaska Native Heritage Center''', 8800 Heritage Center Drive, Phone: (907) 330-8000, [http://www.alaskanative.net/]. Summer (May 8-Sept 24) Every Day ''9-6'', Winter (Oct 29-Apr 16) Sat 10-5, General Admission Adults $23.50, Seniors/Military $21.15, Children (Ages 7-16) $15.95, Children (6 and under) free. This is much more than just a static museum of glass display cases. The various native Alaskan cultures are all represented in this center. A large stage holds native dance performances as well as other types of events for visitors. Behind the center, a short trail around the lake takes you to several stations that show aspects of life in each of the native Alaskan cultures with native guides with short demonstrations and happily answering questions. Back inside, many items such as artwork, kayaks and ulu knives are on display. A small theater runs various films and there is a gift shop (with a second location in downtown Anchorage).


==Get around==
* '''Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center''', 43 miles south of Anchorage on Seward Hwy (mile 79), Phone: (907) 783-2025, [http://www.alaskawildlife.org/]. Apr-May 10-6, May-Sept 8-8, Sept-May 10-5, Adults $5, Children 4-12 $3, Seniors 55+ $3, Active Military w/ID $3, Max charge per vehicle $20. AWCC provides refuge for orphaned, injured or ill animals. Visitors drive through the park and see animals large fenced habitat areas including bears, eagles, elk, moose, bison, and more.
*Driving is on the left-hand side of the road. Speeds are low, but the island is small. Taxi service is unmetered, with set rates. Taxi drivers offer island tours lasting several hours. Fares must be paid in cash.


*The ferry from Blowing Point to Marigot, St. Martin runs all day on the half hour. The last ferry departs Anguilla at 6:15pm and final ferry departs St. Martin at 7:00pm. Connections and charters are available to other islands.
* '''Anchorage Museum of History and Art''', 121 W 7th Avenue, Phone: (907) 343-6173, [http://www.anchoragemuseum.org/]. Summer (15 May-15 September) 9-6, open until 9 PM on Thursdays, Winter (16 September-14 May) Tuesday-Saturday 10-6, Sunday 12-5, closed Monday. Adults $8, 0-6 Free, 6-17 $2 donation, Seniors/Military/Students with ID $7. The Anchorage Museum of History and Art has various traveling exhibits from around the country and the world, and a variety of local art, including pieces from Sydney Lawrence and Ray Troll. The museum also features an extensive exhibit on Alaskan history, and an expansion to be completed in 2009 will feature a children's museum and part of a Smithsonian collection of Alaska Native art.


*Cars, bikes, and mopeds can all be rented. Rental cars are available in from several different agencies. Hertz, Avis and other local agencies.
==Do==


==Talk==
'''Wildlife Viewing'''


English is the official language, spoken everywhere.
The Anchorage area is home to moose, brown and black bears, Dall sheep, and many migratory bird species. A visitor should be able to find moose fairly easily by driving any neighborhood on Anchorage's Hillside (actually the foothills of the Chugach mountains). It is not uncommon to hear of bears being spotted in residential areas, but visitors who hope to see wild bears should plan excursions to either Denali or Katmai National Parks. Dall sheep, a species similar to the big-horn sheep found in the American Rockies, can usually be spotted by driving down the Seward Highway south of Anchorage. A good way to spot sheep is to notice congregations of other tourists photographing them. A good place to view waterfowl and eagles is Potter's Marsh, located immediately south of Anchorage on the Seward Highway.


==Do==
'''Walking/Biking'''
Swim with The Dolphins at '''[http://www.dolphindiscovery.com/anguilla Dolphin Discovery]''' unforgettable interactive experience at any Dolphin Discovery's seven locations in Hawaii, the Caribbean and Mexico. Swimming with dolphins is everything you´ve imagined and more - and a chance to encounter these highly intelligent and friendly marine mammals which will fascinate and amaze you.


==Buy==
One of the best places to walk or bike to get to know Anchorage would have to be the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. Awesome views. Starting from downtown, it's a well maintained 14 mile paved track around the coast, with housing developments and forests on one side, and the ocean of Cook Inlet on the other. You can come back via an inland loop right around the airport. This has some on-road sections, but takes you past Lake Hood, a busy and interesting seaplane base. It's a very popular track for bikers and joggers during the summer months.
For a more challenging hike, drive east on O'Malley Road (south Anchorage) and follow signs for Glen Alps. There is a $5 day parking fee at the trail head. From this launching point there are numerous hiking options for all levels, including a climb up Flattop (Anchorage's most popular day-hike), the "ballpark", Hidden Lake, Ship Lake Pass, etc. There is also a mountain biking trail leading up towards Powerline Pass. This is a great place to see moose in the summer and offers the best view of the city of Anchorage within a 5 minute walk of the parking lot (parking is free if you stay 30 minutes or less). All the trails are well maintained and there is little risk of being lost in the immediate area, however, for the maximum experience it's a good idea to bring water and plan your hike with a great guide such as "55 Ways to the Wilderness", Southcentral Alaska or Chugach State Park editions, available online or at any local Alaskan bookseller.


The East Caribbean dollar was fixed in 1976 at an exchange rate of 2.7 per U.S. dollar. U.S. dollars are accepted everywhere but change will be in East Caribbean currency. Credit cards are taken at hotels and restaurants (not everywhere will accept Amex. Mastercard/Visa preferred). Stores will have all prices listed in East Caribbean dollars.
*'''[http://www.coastaltrailrentals.com/ Coastal Trail Rentals,LLC]''' Located on the shore of the Lake Hood Seaplane Base near the Ted Stevens International Airport in Anchorage and minutes from the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. You get the lowest pricing on bike rentals in Anchorage beginning @ $15 as well as an opportunity to go on guided mountain biking or paved trail tours. This is the only place in Anchorage to rent an electric-assist equipped bicycle which are also used for their one-of-a-kind tour of the "Bird to Gird" trail. Tours also offered for Kincaid Park if you'd like to mountain bike in Anchorage with a guide familiar with this incredible trail system. (907) 301-2165 ...Complimentary airport shuttle to and from the Millennium Hotel by calling (907) 243-2300...


===Costs===
*'''[http://www.alaska-bike-rentals.com/ Downtown Bicycle Rental, Inc]''' Located on 4th Avenue in downtown Anchorage two streets away from the start of the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. You can get great pricing on bike rentals as well as excellent suggestions and advice on bicycle and hiking routes in and around Anchorage.


==Eat==


'''Ski/Snowboard'''

*'''[http://www.anchoragenordicski.com/Trails/maps.htm The Nordic Skiing Association of Anchorage]''' maintains and provide information on numerous nordic (cross-country) ski trails around town.

*'''[http://www.alyeskaresort.com Alyeska Resort]''' located in [[Girdwood]] about 40 miles south of Anchorage on the Seward Highway is Alaska's largest alpine (downhill) ski resort. Alyeska often has the highest annual snowfall of any ski area in North America and has a wide array of intermediate and expert terrain. Beginner terrain is fairly limited, but Alyeska has a fairly good ski and snowboard instruction program so it is not a bad place to learn.

*'''[http://www.hilltopskiarea.org Hilltop Ski Area]''' is located in south Anchorage about 15 minutes from downtown. It is a fairly small area in the Chugach foothills with one chairlift and a surface lift and exclusively beginner terrain.

*'''[http://www.skialpenglow.com Alpenglow at Arctic Valley]''' is a volunteer operated resort with two chairlifts and a T-bar. While the terrain is not as steep as some of the expert-only terrain at Alyeska, it is not for beginners and the snow is often windblown and hard. Alpenglow offers free lift tickets for volunteers, and thus is a great option for ski bums and budget travelers.

*'''Hillberg Ski Area''' is located on Elmendorf Airforce Base to the north of downtown Anchorage, and is technically open to the public. Civilians who don't have authorization to enter the base must be signed in and escorted by someone who does. Hillberg has only beginner terrain, but tends to have shorter lift lines than Hilltop making it a better option for people who can get access.

*'''[http://www.chugachpowderguides.com Chugach Powder Guides]''' offers helicopter and snow-cat skiing in the Chugach mountains with a professional guide for advanced intermediate to expert skiers and boarders.

'''Rugby'''

Anchorage has three mens' rugby teams that play from April to September. Want to pick up a game while you are here or join a team? http://www.birdcreekrfc.com/ or http://www.thunderbirds.20m.com

==Buy==
* '''Anchorage Market and Festival''', [http://www.anchoragemarkets.com/]. Saturdays & Sundays (mid May-mid Sept) at 3rd Ave. and E St. (10-6), Wednesdays (Jul-Aug) in the Northway Mall parking lot (11-5), free entry. Several hundred vendors offer all sorts of items in this large open air market. Items include fresh produce, fresh local seafood, prepared food, arts and crafts, souvenirs, etc. Some items could be found anywhere in the lower 48 but many items are truly Alaskan.
* '''Dimond Center''', The largest mall in the entire State of Alaska. Dimond Center also features an ice rink, movie theaters, and a bowling alley.
* '''Fifth Avenue Mall''', Usually considered Anchorage's nicest mall, it is attached to the original JCPenney Building and it also has skywalk access to the only Nordstrom store in Alaska. There are 2 parking garages which are connected to the mall, The old JCPenney's garage on 6th avenue, via Penney's; and the 5th Avenue Mall Garage between 5th and 6th avenue
* '''Boniface Mall''' Mostly empty and used by the Anchorage School District
* '''Sears Mall''' This mall is convenient to visitors getting on the Seward Highway; however, this mall is just like the mall in every other town in America. The Lenscrafters is the same as the Lenscrafters in any other city.
* '''Northway Mall'''
* '''Northern Lights Shopping Mall''' Strip mall
* '''Valley River Shopping Mall''' Strip mall in the bedroom community of Eagle River (about 10 miles north of Anchorage)
* '''University Plaza Mall'''
There are also myriad touristy gift stores downtown. Quality and selection varies.

==Eat==
===Budget===
===Budget===
* '''Arctic Roadrunner''', two locations, 5300 Old Seward Hwy, (907) 561-1245, and 2477 Arctic Blvd, (907) 279-7311. An Alaskan institution and consistently voted Anchorage's best burger. Kitschy Alaskana on the walls, including plaques and portraits of longtime Alaskans and longtime Arctic Roadrunner customers. Also try the halibut burger and homemade onion rings. Cash only; "no checks since 1972."
* '''City Diner''' Run by Chef Al, famous for his other restaurant in town the Kincade Grill. City Diner has some of the best sandwiches in town; the monte cristo is to die for and the sliders are amazing.
* '''Gwennie's''' An Alaskan institution; must be seen to be understood. Down home Americana meets Alaska (think sourdough pancakes and reindeer sausage). Extremely touristy but also popular with the locals for good prices and big portions. Old-time Alaskan rusty things hanging on the walls.
* '''Taco King''' and '''Burrito King''' Possibly the best fast Mexican food in Anchorage (not saying a ''whole'' lot, but it holds its own against places closer to the border) and with insanely great (for Alaska) prices if you get the right thing.
* '''The Lucky Wishbone''' An Anchorage standard famous for their pan-friend chicken but also serving one of the better burgers in town.
*'''Tommy's Burger Stop''' 29th ave & Spenard. Routinely voted the best burgers and philly sandwiches in Anchorage.
* '''White Spot Cafe''', 109 W 4th Ave (4th and A), (907) 279-3954. The place is not much more than a small kitchen and a counter with room for 10 patrons. Arguably better burgers and definitely better halibut sandwiches than Arctic Roadrunner. Study the menu carefully before daring to order, or Sheri will put you in your place. The food is way worth the attitude, though.

===Midrange===
* '''Bear Tooth Theatrepub''', 1230 W 27th Avenue, (907) 276-4200, [http://www.beartooththeatre.net/index2.html]. A wonderful pizza location, similar to the Moose's Tooth described below (although the menu differs a bit). It also features a movie theater in which you can eat dinner (they deliver it right to your seat) and imbibe from the wide selection of microbrews and wines. It mainly plays arthouse films and those that have been released for some time. The attached Bear Tooth Grill offers very different but equally delicious choices in a more traditional bar/grill restaurant setting.

* '''Cafe Savannah''', 508 W 5th Avenue (6th and E), (907) 646-9121. This is a small Spanish tapas restaurant downtown with a very good and reasonably-priced wine list. There are hot and cold tapas dishes as well as typical entrees. It's close to the Performing Arts Center.
* '''Glacier BrewHouse''', 5th Ave between H and G St, (907) 274-BREW, [http://glacierbrewhouse.com/]. A very popular place to eat in downtown Anchorage. Wide selection of food, impressive selection of beers from their brewery. Hard to go wrong with this one if you're looking for a place to eat downtown.

* '''Moose's Tooth Pub and Pizzeria''', 3300 Old Seward Hwy near New Seward and 36th, (907) 258-2537, [http://www.moosestooth.net/index2.htm]. Brews their own beer and makes some fantastic pizza (all-ages welcome). Good atmosphere and walls covered with memorabelia about Alaska and beer. Can be busy. Frequently has outdoor concerts during the summer on the first Thursday of every month ("first tap" is age 21+). Must-go if you like beer. Has vegetarian selections. Medium prices; it's possible to save by splitting a large pizza. Menu and beer list online.


===Moderate===
* '''Simon and Seafort's''', 420 L Street (end of downtown near the coastal trail), (907) 274-3502, [http://www.r-u-i.com/sim/]. Semi-fancy seafood restaurant and bar. On the expensive side, but it's worth it to get some of the best seafood in Alaska (and being Anchorage, there's no dress code). They also have excellent non-seafood selections and a great lunch menu. You can also see the sunset over the water by the window. Menus online.
* '''Uncle Ernie's''' on Shoal Bay beach; inexpensive local BBQ;
* '''Solstice Bar & Grill''', 720 West 5th Avenue (between H and G Streets), (907) 276-7676, [http://www.westmarkhotels.com/anchorage-food.php]. While not as popular as Glacier BrewHouse, Solstice Bar & Grill offers meals of a similar quality for a slightly cheaper price. Located in the lobby level of the Westmark Hotel (almost directly across from the BrewHouse), this restaurant can get quite busy during the summer breakfast and dinner times, as Westmark plays host to a number of cruise line guests (its parent company is Holland America Line).
* '''Smitty's''' [http://smittys.ai] in Island Harbor.
* '''Southside Bistro''', 1320 Huffman Park Drive (in the far south end of town), (907) 348-0088, [http://www.southsidebistro.com]. Fresh seafood and innovative preparations of meats and lighter fare make this a great stop for those heading south or those wanting to get away from the hustle of the touristy areas. Bar with microbrews and a good wine list.
* '''Scilly Cay''' in Island Harbor; pronounced Silly Key; take a boat or swim out to this tiny island off the island.
* '''Snow City Cafe''', 1034 W 4th Avenue (907) 272-2489, [http://www.snowcitycafe.com/]. Open for breakfast and lunch only, except on Wednesdays when there is an excellent Irish jam (and sometimes dance!) from 7-11pm. There is often a long wait for a table and for good reason, food is fresh and affordable, breakfast is available all day and there are plenty of hearty fares for the health-conscious. If you're not health-conscious, the macaroni and cheese is to die for!
* '''Roy's''' [http://roysplaceanguilla.com] above Crocus Bay; started by a British expat and his wife. Great bargain lunches on Fridays. Very well known for their fish and chips.
* '''The Pumphouse''' in Sandy Ground next to the old salt flats
* '''Johnno's''' is an Anguillan landmark, run by John (Johnno) on Sandy Ground beach. It is an open air bar, restaurant and at night a dance club on the beach, often with live local bands.
* '''Cora's Pepperpot''' formerly Pepperpot, is a restuarant serving some of the most authentic local dishes.
* '''Zara's''' located in Shoal Bay - listen to the Chef, Shamash, sing love songs in his kitchen while you watch him prepare your feast.
Reservations: 497 3229
*'''Sandy Island''' located in the middle of Sandy Ground. A tiny offshore island where you're guaranteed a GREAT time! (Be brave and try the rum punch!!) Call 476-6534 (Simone) for reservations.


===Splurge===
===Splurge===
* '''Michel Rostant at the Malliouhana''' [http://www.malliouhana.com/] Incredible view, an awesome view and great food. Conde Nast traveler rated this restaurant 100 out of 100.
* '''Crow's Nest''', 4th and K (top floor of Hotel Captain Cook), (907) 276-6000, [http://www.captaincook.com/restaurants.php]. AAA four-diamond rating and Wine Spectator awards. Seafood, "French and American" cuisine. View of entire city and Chugach Mountains. Definitely a splurge. Wine sommelier on staff; 10,000 bottle cellar. Dress code: Business casual. Good place to impress a date.
* '''Hibernia''' [http://hiberniarestaurant.com/] Unique food, gracious hosts and a wonderful time always. Worth the drive!
* '''Jens'''', 701 W 36th Ave (in a strip mall at 36th and Arctic next to a Scandinavian furniture store), (907) 561-5367, [http://www.jensrestaurant.com]. A superb menu of Alaskan seafood with a twist, Danish specialties, and French classics that changes daily. Bar and good wine selection.
* '''Blanchard's''' [http://www.blanchardsrestaurant.com/] Great decor, which is unfortunately undermined by the bland food.
* '''ORSO Ristorante''', 5th Ave between H and G Streets, (907) 222-3232, [http://www.orsoalaska.com/]. Located right next to and owned by the same company as Glacier BrewHouse, this restaurant offers higher-priced meals inspired by traditional Italian fare. Located in the same block as a number of art galleries and smaller boutique shops, one can keep occupied while waiting (which in the summer season, is typical).
* '''Mango's''' [http://www.mangos.ai/] Directly on the beach, with wonderful seafood.
* '''Ginger''', 425 W 5th Ave, (907) 929-3680, [http://www.gingeralaska.com/]. New restaurant. Trendy, modern, upscale dining. Sort of an Asian-Alaskan fusion, with things like wasabi mashed potatoes. Extensive saki list. Try the fries for an appetizer; they're freshly made and delicious.
* '''Straw Hat''' [http://www.strawhat.com/] Don't miss the crayfish here!
* '''Altamer''' [http://www.altamer.com/] Delicious lobsters big as orbiting moons, great service.
* '''The Overlook''' [http://www.overlookrestaurant.com/index2.htm]Formerly Cyril's Ovelook of Montauk/NY fame but now in the trusty hands of Deon. Fabulous seafood and great gazpacho soup!


==Drink==

In Girdwood (45 minutes south):
* '''Double Musky Inn''', Mile .3 Crow Creek Road. (907) 783-2822, [http://www.doublemuskyinn.com/]. The Double Musky has Alaska's best cajun cuisine with a local seafood slant. They have a "rustic yet formal" (but ''still'' no dress code) atmosphere. It is a great place to take a date, not just for the great food but also for the beautiful drive south along the coast. Also very warming after a day at the local Alyeska Ski Area.

==Drink==
Anchorage has many, many bars. Bars must close by 2:30 AM Monday-Friday and 3:00 AM Saturday and Sunday under municipal law. Bars can stay open until 5:00 AM in the cities of [[Palmer (Alaska)|Palmer]] and [[Wasilla]], about 45 minutes north. Anchorage also probably has more micro-breweries per capita than anywhere else.

Beginning July 1, 2007, all bars and restaurants in Anchorage are non-smoking.

* '''Bernie's Bungalow Lounge''', 626 D Street (between 6th and 7th; across the street from Nordstrom's entrance), (907) 276-8808, [http://www.berniesbungalowlounge.com/]. This is a fashionable and friendly "martini-and-cigar" type of place. Good place to sit outside on the lawn in the summer, or to go upstairs to the Paradise Room for a fancy place to have a drink (although the upstairs is often booked for private gatherings). It's popular with well-dressed young people and businesspeople (during the daytime). The evening crowd is generally younger and the bar is embracing a larger hip-hop crowd. Usually busiest after midnight.
* '''Chilkoot Charlie's''', 1071 W 25th Avenue (in Spenard), (907) 279-1692, [http://www.koots.com/]. This is the largest bar within about 1,400 miles (2200 km). It's a huge spot that is always busy on weekends. The outside facade is deceptively small - there is a map on their website to navigate through all 10+ bars. There is usually at least one band playing every night (and usually a cover charge). Popular place to pick up dates, if you can hear above the noise.
* '''Darwin's Theory''', 426 G St, (907) 277-5322. A quintessential "dive bar," Darwin's is popular with the locals. If you're interested in avoiding the generic tourist watering holes, Darwin's will wet your whistle. It's just a basic corner bar.
* '''Humpy's Great Alaskan Alehouse''', 610 West 6th Avenue, (907) 276-BEER, [http://www.humpys.com/]. Humpy's has dozens of beers on tap and a great pub food selection (esp. seafood) until midnight. It's popular with just about everyone. Beer-battered halibut -- yum!
* Also see "Glacier BrewHouse" and "Moose's Tooth" under "Eat."


==Sleep==
==Sleep==

===Bed and Breakfast===
* '''Earth Bed & Breakfast''', 1001 West 12th Avenue, Phone: +1 (907) 279-9907, Fax: ''+1 (907)'' 279-9862, ''(mailto:info@earthbb.com)'', [http://www.earthbb.com]. Located in Downtown Anchorage, Earth B&B is the home away from home for mountain climbers, fishermen, photographers and other adventurers from across the globe. A home-style, self-serve deluxe continental breakfast is served daily daily from 7:00 am - 9:00 am featuring coffee, tea, hot cocoa, fresh fruit, juice, hot & cold cereals, yogurt and assorted breakfast pastries with a variety of butters and preserves.


===Budget===
===Budget===
* '''Anchorage International Hostel Downtown''', 700 H Street, Phone: +1 (907) 276-3635, Fax: ''+1 (907)'' 276-7772, ''(mailto:information@anchorageinternationalhostel.org)'', [http://www.anchorageinternationalhostel.org]. Office Hours:8am - 12pm, 5pm - 11pm Alaska Standard Time (1 hour earlier than Pacific Standard Time). This hostel is located one block from the downtown transit center(served by all PeopleMover routes except 1) and about seven blocks from the Alaska Railroad Station. Close walking distance to many downtown restaurants, coffee shops, and shopping venues.


===Moderate===
*''' Microtel Inn & Suites''' 5205 Northwood Drive, Phone: (907) 245-5002, [http://microtelinn.com/reservations/locationdetail.asp?facid=342]. Microtel is pleased to be the first economy/budget hotel brand to offer guests free local and free long distance calls in the continental United States, and free wireless high-speed Internet access in every room of our hotels, as well as advance online check-in and check-out with unlimited access to online folio information. These new amenities compliment our other standard amenities including remote TV with ESPN, CNN and one movie channel and complimentary continental breakfast.
Anguilla Great House


Ku on Shoal Bay
* '''Spenard Hostel International''', 2845 West 42nd Place, Phone: +1 (907) 248 5036 ''(mailto:stay@alaskahostel.org, Fax: +1 (907) 248 5036)'', [http://www.alaskahostel.org/]. Office Hours: 9am - 1pm (Summer), 7PM-11PM (Summer and Winter). This hostel is a bit of a way out of the center of town but is a really clean and friendly environment compared to the inner-city alternative. It is serviced by PeopleMover route 7.


Shoal Bay Villas - Shoal Bay
* '''The Puffin Inn Hotel''', 4400 Spenard, Phone: +1 (907) 743-1164, ''(mailto:info@puffininn.net)'', [http://www.puffininn.net]. The hotel is located near the Ted Steven's International Airport and Lake Hood and just 10 minutes from downtown Anchorage. It is just a short drive from scenic Alaska and all of its natural beauty.
http://sbvillas.ai
* '''Motel 6 Anchorage - Midtown''', 5000 A Street, ''+1 907'' 677-8000, Fax: ''+1 907'' 677-8640, [http://www.motel6.com/reservations/motel_detail.asp?MotelId=4216]. According to the general manager, this one has the distinction of being the most expensive Motel 6 in the country, if not the world, during the peak summer season (2007 rates started at $139 per night).


===Mid-range===
===Splurge===
* Cuisinart Resort and Spa [http://www.cuisinartresort.com/]
* Cap Juluca [http://www.capjuluca.com/]
* Malliouhana [http://www.malliouhana.com/]


==Learn==
* '''America's Best Suites''', 4110 Spenard Road, ''+1 907'' 243-3433, Fax: ''+1 907'' 248-9258, [http://www.AlaskaBestInn.com].
* '''Anchorage Microtel Inn & Suites''', 5205 Northwood Drive, ''+1 907'' 245-5002, Fax: ''+1 907'' 245-5030, [http://www.microtelanchorage.com].
* '''Best Western Barratt Inn''', 4616 Spenard Road, ''+1 907'' 243-3131, Toll-free: ''+1 800'' 221-7550, Fax: ''+1 907'' 249-4917, [http://book.bestwestern.com/bestwestern/productInfo.do?propertyCode=02001].
* '''Best Western Golden Lion Hotel''', 1000 E 36th Avenue, ''+1 907'' 561-1522, Fax: ''+1 907'' 743-4814, [http://book.bestwestern.com/bestwestern/productInfo.do?propertyCode=02005].
* '''Comfort Inn''', 111 West Ship Creek Avenue, AK 99501, tel ''+1 907'' 277-6887, Fax: ''+1 970 274 9830. Convenient location easy walking distance from the creek, the railroad, the weekend market and the downtown area. Courtesy bus to the airport.
* '''Courtyard Anchorage Airport''', 4901 Spenard Road, ''+1 907'' 245-0322, Toll-free: ''+1 800'' 314-0782, Fax: ''+1 907'' 248-1886, [http://marriott.com/property/propertypage/ANCCY].
* '''Fairfield Inn & Suites Anchorage Midtown''', 5060 A Street, ''+1 907'' 222-9000, Fax: ''+1 907'' 222-7611, [http://marriott.com/property/propertypage/ANCFI].
* '''Hawthorn Suites''', 1110 West 8th Avenue, ''+1 907'' 222-5005, Fax: ''+1 907'' 222-5215, [http://hawthorn.com/reservations/locationdetail.asp?facid=1335].
* '''Holiday Inn Express''', 4411 Spenard Rd., ''+1 907'' 248-8848, [http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/h/d/ex/1/en/hd/ancsp].
* '''Residence Inn Anchorage Midtown''', 1025 35th Avenue, ''+1 907'' 563-9844, Toll-free: ''+1 800'' 314-0781, Fax: ''+1 907'' 563-9636, [http://marriott.com/property/propertypage/ANCRI].
* '''SpringHill Suites Anchorage Midtown''', 3401 A Street, ''+1 907'' 562-3247, Toll-free: ''+1 800'' 314-0783, Fax: ''+1 907'' 562-3250, [http://marriott.com/property/propertypage/ANCSH].
* '''Howard Johnson Plaza Anchorage''', 239 West 4th Avenue, ''+1 907'' 793-5500, Toll-free: ''+1 800'' 446-4656, Fax: ''+1 907'' 258-4733, [http://www.hjplazaanchorage.com/].

===Splurge===
* '''Anchorage Marriott Downtown''', 820 W. 7th Ave, ''+1 907'' 279-8000, Fax: ''+1 907'' 279-8005, [http://marriott.com/property/propertypage/ANCDT].
* '''Hotel Captain Cook''', 4th & K, ''+1 907'' 276-6000, Toll-free: ''+1 800'' 843-1950, [http://www.captaincook.com/].


==Stay safe==
==Stay safe==
Anguilla is a safe island with a low crime rate. But please take necesary precautions - lock your doors at night, don't leave personal belongings in your unlocked rental car and don't give rides to pedestrians.


==Stay healthy==
Anchorage is a very safe city for its size. The murder rate is very low. That's not to say that crime doesn't occur though. In the major tourist areas such as downtown, you should keep close eye on your possessions. Pickpockets exist everywhere. Certain areas in the north east of the city (Mountain View, north of the Glenn Highway and east of Merrill Field airport) and central (Fairview,6th to 15th avenue, east of Ingra) have higher crime than other spots. Also areas around the airport like Spenard are known for increased drug activity and prostitution. In earlier times, the downtown area around 4th avenue was pretty unsavory but a concerted effort over the last eight years has pretty much shut it down.

A constant problem is car break-ins at State Park parking lots. Do not leave valuables of any kind visible.

Generally, if you aren't looking for crime, you won't find it.

==Get out==

There are only two roads out of Anchorage, the Seward Highway which goes south to the Kenai Peninsula, and the Glenn Highway which goes northeast to Glennallen and continues as the Tok Cutoff to Tok where it ends at the Alaska Highway. The Glenn Highway junctions with the George Parks Highway about 40 miles north of Anchorage, continuing northwest to Denali National Park and Fairbanks. Driving from Anchorage to Fairbanks usually takes 6-8 hours (356 miles) and driving from Anchorage to Seattle, WA usually takes at least 3 days.


==Respect==
The [http://akrr.com Alaska Railroad] offers daily service between Anchorage/Seward, Anchorage/Whittier, and Anchorage/Fairbanks during the summer. The Anchorage/Fairbanks run (Aurora) offers flag drop service - it is the only railroad in the U.S. that will pick you up if you flag the train from the side of the tracks.
The beautiful people of Anguilla are incredibly friendly and hospitable.


==Contact==
There are numerous small plane flying services which have scheduled flights to small villages, or the capacity to charter flights to different villages. For travel to villages outside of the Southcentral region it is usually cheaper to take a regular commercial flight to the the appropriate regional hub (Bethel, Unalakleet, Dillingham, Unalaska, Kotzebue, Nome, Barrow, Fairbanks, or Juneau) and arrange to fly from there to your destination.


{{isIn|Southcentral_Alaska}}
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{{isIn|Caribbean}}


[[de:Anguilla]]
[[ja:アンカレッジ]]
[[pt:Anchorage]]
[[eo:Angvilo]]
[[fr:Anguilla]]
[[it:Anguilla (isola)]]
[[ja:アンギラ]]
[[pt:Anguila]]


[[WikiPedia:Anchorage, Alaska]]
[[WikiPedia:Anguilla]]
[[Dmoz:Caribbean/Anguilla/]]
[[Dmoz:North_America/United_States/Alaska/Localities/A/Anchorage]]
[[World66:centralamericathecaribbean/thecaribbean/anguilla]]

Revision as of 01:09, 1 August 2007

[[File:noframe|250px]]
Capital The Valley
Currency East Caribbean dollar (XCD)
Population 13,477 (July 2006 est.)
Electricity 120V/60Hz (North American plug)
Country code +1-264
Time zone UTC-4
Emergencies 911
Driving side left
edit on Wikidata

Anguilla is a small island nation in the Caribbean, a few miles north of Saint Martin.

Map of Anguilla

Villages

Other destinations

Understand

Anguilla was colonized by English settlers from Saint Kitts in 1650, and administered by Great Britain until the early 19th century, when the island - against the wishes of the inhabitants - was incorporated into a single UK dependency along with Saint Kitts and Nevis. Several attempts at separation failed. In 1971, two years after a revolt, Anguilla was finally allowed to secede; this arrangement was formally recognized in 1980 with Anguilla becoming a separate UK dependency.

Anguilla has few natural resources, and the economy depends heavily on luxury tourism, offshore banking, lobster fishing, and remittances from emigrants. Increased activity in the tourism industry, which has spurred the growth of the construction sector, has contributed to economic growth.

Geography

Anguilla is a flat and low-lying island of coral and limestone. The highest point is Crocus Hill, at 65 meters.

Get in

By plane

American Eagle (the commuter subsidiary of the largest airline in the world, American Airlines) provides non-stop, 72 seat aircraft, service to San Juan, Puerto Rico. Once in San Juan, one may connect using American Airlines, or their Oneworld Alliance partner Iberia (to Madrid Spain), to 35 destinations in the United States and in the Caribbean. Liat provides once daily service to St. Thomas, and onwards to other destinations in the Caribbean.

It may be easier to access Anguilla via St. Maarten, which can be reached non-stop from many eastern U.S. cities, as well as European cities. From there, Winair operates flights which can take 8 minutes to reach Anguilla from St.Maarten. Many visitors charter boats privately from the pier near Princess Julianna Airport in St. Maarten to Anguilla.

By boat

Get around

  • Driving is on the left-hand side of the road. Speeds are low, but the island is small. Taxi service is unmetered, with set rates. Taxi drivers offer island tours lasting several hours. Fares must be paid in cash.
  • The ferry from Blowing Point to Marigot, St. Martin runs all day on the half hour. The last ferry departs Anguilla at 6:15pm and final ferry departs St. Martin at 7:00pm. Connections and charters are available to other islands.
  • Cars, bikes, and mopeds can all be rented. Rental cars are available in from several different agencies. Hertz, Avis and other local agencies.

Talk

English is the official language, spoken everywhere.

Do

Swim with The Dolphins at Dolphin Discovery unforgettable interactive experience at any Dolphin Discovery's seven locations in Hawaii, the Caribbean and Mexico. Swimming with dolphins is everything you´ve imagined and more - and a chance to encounter these highly intelligent and friendly marine mammals which will fascinate and amaze you.

Buy

The East Caribbean dollar was fixed in 1976 at an exchange rate of 2.7 per U.S. dollar. U.S. dollars are accepted everywhere but change will be in East Caribbean currency. Credit cards are taken at hotels and restaurants (not everywhere will accept Amex. Mastercard/Visa preferred). Stores will have all prices listed in East Caribbean dollars.

Costs

Eat

Budget

Moderate

  • Uncle Ernie's on Shoal Bay beach; inexpensive local BBQ;
  • Smitty's [1] in Island Harbor.
  • Scilly Cay in Island Harbor; pronounced Silly Key; take a boat or swim out to this tiny island off the island.
  • Roy's [2] above Crocus Bay; started by a British expat and his wife. Great bargain lunches on Fridays. Very well known for their fish and chips.
  • The Pumphouse in Sandy Ground next to the old salt flats
  • Johnno's is an Anguillan landmark, run by John (Johnno) on Sandy Ground beach. It is an open air bar, restaurant and at night a dance club on the beach, often with live local bands.
  • Cora's Pepperpot formerly Pepperpot, is a restuarant serving some of the most authentic local dishes.
  • Zara's located in Shoal Bay - listen to the Chef, Shamash, sing love songs in his kitchen while you watch him prepare your feast.

Reservations: 497 3229

  • Sandy Island located in the middle of Sandy Ground. A tiny offshore island where you're guaranteed a GREAT time! (Be brave and try the rum punch!!) Call 476-6534 (Simone) for reservations.

Splurge

  • Michel Rostant at the Malliouhana [3] Incredible view, an awesome view and great food. Conde Nast traveler rated this restaurant 100 out of 100.
  • Hibernia [4] Unique food, gracious hosts and a wonderful time always. Worth the drive!
  • Blanchard's [5] Great decor, which is unfortunately undermined by the bland food.
  • Mango's [6] Directly on the beach, with wonderful seafood.
  • Straw Hat [7] Don't miss the crayfish here!
  • Altamer [8] Delicious lobsters big as orbiting moons, great service.
  • The Overlook [9]Formerly Cyril's Ovelook of Montauk/NY fame but now in the trusty hands of Deon. Fabulous seafood and great gazpacho soup!

Drink

Sleep

Budget

Moderate

Anguilla Great House

Ku on Shoal Bay

Shoal Bay Villas - Shoal Bay http://sbvillas.ai

Splurge

  • Cuisinart Resort and Spa [10]
  • Cap Juluca [11]
  • Malliouhana [12]

Learn

Stay safe

Anguilla is a safe island with a low crime rate. But please take necesary precautions - lock your doors at night, don't leave personal belongings in your unlocked rental car and don't give rides to pedestrians.

Stay healthy

Respect

The beautiful people of Anguilla are incredibly friendly and hospitable.

Contact

Outline World66:centralamericathecaribbean/thecaribbean/anguilla

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