Lisa O
Alaska is famous for its stunning views, cool wildlife, and wild weather. When chatting with someone from Alaska, there are a few things you should definitely steer clear of. From thinking they live in igloos to calling their state a frozen wasteland—some comments just don’t hit the right note. Here are ten things you should avoid saying to someone from Alaska.
“Alaska is just a big frozen wasteland.”
Calling Alaska a “frozen wasteland” doesn’t quite capture the full picture. Sure, some parts do have pretty tough winters, but Alaska is way more than just ice and snow. It’s got milder coastal areas where the weather isn’t so harsh, lush forests teeming with wildlife and lively cities like Anchorage and Juneau. Alaska’s landscapes are diverse, from jaw-dropping fjords and glaciers to sunny summer days.
“Do you really live in an igloo?”
When you think of Alaska, you might picture igloos, but in reality, most Alaskans live in regular houses or cabins. Igloos are more of an old-school Inuit home from the Arctic, not something you’ll find in a typical Alaskan dwelling. Nowadays, Alaskan homes come with all the modern comforts and are designed to handle the local weather.
“Isn’t it always dark there?”
Alaska’s daylight hours can be pretty extreme, depending on the time of year. During the winter, places like Utqiaġvik (formerly Barrow) experience weeks of darkness, while summer brings almost continuous daylight. So, it’s not always dark or always light—Alaska’s light levels vary significantly with the seasons. Locals are used to this dramatic shift and often embrace the unique daylight patterns, making the most of the endless summer days or cozy winter nights.
“How do you handle the mosquitoes?”
Alaska’s mosquitoes can definitely make a name for themselves, especially in the summer. They’re big and can show up in swarms, but Alaskans know how to handle them. They use strong bug spray, wear protective clothing, and try to stay indoors during peak mosquito times, like early morning and evening. While these pests can be a pain—they’re just part of the outdoor adventure in Alaska.
“Do you see a lot of bears in your backyard?”
Bears are a part of Alaskan wildlife, but it’s not like bears are wandering into everyone’s backyard. Bear sightings are more common in rural areas or places close to their natural habitats. Most Alaskans live with an understanding of how to safely manage bear encounters and use practices like storing food properly and keeping a clean yard to avoid attracting bears. While bear sightings can happen, they’re not an everyday occurrence for most residents.
“Aren’t you scared of living so far from everything?”
Living in Alaska’s huge and remote areas might sound a bit overwhelming, but a lot of Alaskans actually enjoy the space and quiet. They’ve gotten used to the distance and often see it as a nice break from crowded spots. Thanks to modern tech and good transportation, staying connected and getting what you need is easier than ever.
“Doesn’t everyone there know each other?”
Alaska might have a smaller population compared to many states, but it’s still a large and diverse place. The idea that everyone knows everyone is a bit of a myth. Just like in any large state, there are tight-knit communities as well as plenty of people living independently. The size of the state and its population means that locals might know their neighbors but don’t automatically know everyone in the whole state.
“Don’t you get bored with all that snow?”
Snow is a big part of winter in Alaska, but it doesn’t mean people get bored. Locals actually embrace the snow with a ton of winter activities. Whether it’s skiing, snowboarding, ice fishing, or snowshoeing, there’s always something to do when the snow falls. Instead of being a hassle—snow is a chance for outdoor fun and adventure.
“Isn’t it dangerous with all the wildlife?”
Alaska is full of diverse wildlife, but most Alaskans know how to handle encounters safely. They follow guidelines to avoid risky situations and know how to live alongside animals like moose and bears. While wildlife is a big part of Alaskan life, it doesn’t make everyday living dangerous. Alaskans take care to respect wildlife and follow safety tips, so both people and animals can coexist peacefully.
“Why would you want to live somewhere so remote?”
Alaska’s remoteness is actually a big reason why many people love living there. Lots of Alaskans are drawn to the state for its amazing landscapes, unique culture, and great outdoor adventures. The sense of isolation can be a plus—offering a quieter and more connected way of life. Alaska’s stunning beauty and peaceful vibe are major attractions for those who enjoy nature and a slower pace.