Tips for Gay and Lesbian Travelers

Anchorage, Juneau, and Fairbanks have active gay and lesbian communities. In Anchorage, Identity Inc. (www.identityinc.org) offers referrals, publishes a newsletter called Northview, sponsors activities throughout the year, and operates a gay and lesbian helpline (tel. 888/901-9876 or 907/258-4777). The June Pridefest includes a parade and picnic, among other events. Their Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Anchorage is at 336 E. 5th Ave. (tel. 907/929-4528).

Gays and lesbians can find some Alaska B&Bs and tours specifically marketing to them. For example, Olivia Cruises and Resorts (tel. 800/631-6277; www.olivia.com) typically brings a lesbian cruise to Alaska each year, with well-known entertainers on board. In Fairbanks, a small but growing company specializes in outdoor tours and backcountry trips statewide for gays and lesbians. It's called Out In Alaska (tel. 877/374-9958; www.outinalaska.com).