Thursday, November 14, 2013

Anchorage and Kenai Peninsula

31 August 2013

   Anchorage history is incomplete without mentioning Capt James Cook RN adventure to the New World. This he did before his return voyage towards Hawaii in the Pacific Ocean where he met his destination at the hands of the local tribes there. 
  I also took the opportunity while in Anchorage to meet and see the building of the first mosque in Anchorage. Unfortunately, the construction is still underway and not much so far. Meanwhile the Muslim community there established a temporary mosque for their regular services and prayers.
  I took a boat ride to Whittier to see whales and the marine animals there plus the glacier in the Prince William Sound. Again, the weather was at it worst for most part of the tour. Rain, rain and rain.
Harbour entrance where Capt Cook landed 
Islamic Centre Anchorage 
Temporary mosque, Anchorage 




Seward Hwy at the Kenai Peninsula 

The Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel 
To get to Whittier, traffic has to go through the Anton Anderson Tunnel. The tunnel is 2.6 miles one way traffic. It is  a combine road and rail track. It is a concrete and metal plate, very slippery when wet and motorcycle to pass through last. Hold your breath when you travel in this tunnel.
Welcome to Whittier, Alaska 
Whittier a small fishing town 
Train approaching Whittier 
Boat ride to Prince William Sound 
Glacier in the Prince William Sound 
Another view of Glacier in Prince William Sound
The Seward Highway connected Anchorage to the Kenai Peninsula has a magnificent view. Alas! It was raining while I ride this highway.
More glacier at the mountain range
My trusted rusty took a pose too.. 
Glacier info 
Blackie the Bear enjoying the view
......and my trip continues, next destination - Valdez.

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