PNWIS 2003 - FAQs

 The name Alaska is derived from the Russian name "Alyeska", which was in turn derived from the Aleut word "Alaxsxa" or "Alaxsxix", meaning "mainland".

Isn't Alaska Cold and Dark?

Don't know what gave you that impression.  

The northern marine coastal climate is actually surprisingly mild.  The average temperature in late September is 55°F, along with 14 hours of daylight (more than any location in the Lower 48 states). 

The other 10 hours of darkness could possibly offer the best opportunity to view the amazing aurora borealis, more commonly known as the northern lights.  The prime time to experience this natural phenomenon is around the equinox (March and late September-October), when the weather is mild, the nights are dark, and the lights are at their brightest.

So bring the whole family!  Stay a few extra days and enjoy the spectacular scenery!  Order a free Anchorage Visitors Guide and an Alaska Vacation Planner to find out more about all the fun activities you can enjoy here.

What Kind of Accommodation does the Alyeska Resort Offer?

Alyeska Resort is located approximately 40 miles south of the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, along the scenic Turnagain Arm (a glacier-carved fijord).  From September 20-29, 2003, the luxurious Alyeska Prince Hotel is offering all PNWIS 2003 attendees the special rates listed below.

This special group rate is NET non-commissionable and does not include tax, currently at 8%.  There is a fee of US$25.00 per room (NET) for triple occupancy.  Check-in time for all groups is 4:00 pm.  Early check-in will be requested for attendees.  Check-out time is 12:00 pm, noon.  The toll free reservation number is 1-800-880-3880.

What are the Alternatives to Staying at the Alyeska Resort?

Even though we have been offered excellent room rates to stay at the conveniently located Alyeska Prince Hotel, some attendees might be interested in other options that better suit their needs.

Alyeska Accommodations offers nightly or weekly vacation rental properties throughout the area.  Their comfortable, convenient condos, homes and elegant mountain chalets are fully furnished and competitively priced.

Listings of local bed and breakfasts are available at the Girdwood Bed & Breakfast Association.

We would like to assure that this conference is affordable for our student attendees.  Alyeska Hostel, located approximately 1.5 miles from the Hotel, offers dormitory style accommodation at their rustic cabin for US$12.50 a night (wood-fired sauna included).

How can I Get There from Here?

Most attendees will first arrive by air at the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport in Alaska. 

The breathtaking drive from the Anchorage airport to Alyeska Resort takes less than an hour.  This scenic stretch of the New Seward Highway is a fantastic way to introduce yourself to Alaska.  Take the virtual tour along with a road map that follows the trip.

Make sure you bring your camera and watch out for baby Belugas, mountain goats, eagles and moose.  Remember -- they were here first.

Do I Really Need a Rental Car to Enjoy the Conference at the Resort?

Not necessarily.  In fact, if you stay at the Alyeska Prince Hotel, you can enjoy all the notable events of the conference without leaving the Resort at all.  There are several means of ground transportation available between the Anchorage airport and the Hotel.

Contracted Taxi - The Checker Cab (orange taxi) offers a flat rate of US$65 (as opposed to a meter rate of over         US$90.00).  It is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  No reservation is necessary for departures from the airport.  If a taxi is not available at the airport upon your arrival, contact the local dispatcher at 276-1234 to have it arrived within 15 minutes.

Luxury Sedan - For a flat rate of US$100, up to 2 people will be greeted by the driver at the airport luggage pick up area with a sign.  Make your reservation with the Alyeska Prince Hotel at 1-800-880-3880.

Limousine - Available at a flat rate of US$145 for a group of 4-7 guests.  Make your reservation with the Alyeska Prince Hotel at 1-800-880-3880.

The Magic Bus - With advance reservation, this Alaskan transportation company provides upscale vehicles for groups with up to 55 passengers. Visit them online at www.themagicbus.com.

What if I Require Special Access for my Physical Challenges?

If you have any special needs, we can provide auxiliary services or make modifications to accommodate your participation in the conference.  Please contact us in advance for additional information.

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