Fairbanks "The Golden Heart City"

We had planned a week in FAI in order to maximize our chances of seeing the aurora. We lucked out in picking the week we did, because we were also able to enjoy quite a few daytime activities in the FAI area. When traveling, we like to stay in B&Bs--no points, but usually a lot of charm and you get to meet lots of interesting people. For this trip, we chose the 7 Gables Inn and Suites, which is not far from the airport. It was a nice little spot, and the winter rates are very affordable, but if we went back, we would probably choose a different place. The management/staff were a bit disorganized trying to keep track of the B&B and their other hotels/hostels/long-term rentals. The two-person jacuzzi in our room was fantastic though, and was definitely the highlight of the place! The breakfasts were good, but got a bit old after a week. They offer cuisine from a different country every day, but most were some kind of egg dish, and by the end of the week, we were ready for a change of pace.

7 Gables Inn & Suites



During our week, we managed to catch a UAF hockey game, see the BP World Ice Art Championships, visit Chena Hot Springs, see Santa's workshop in North Pole, and see the start of the Open North American Sled Dog Race. Here are just a few pictures:

Santa's Workshop:


Ice sculpture entrance:


During the day:






At night:





Moose on Chena Hot Springs Road:





The Ice Hotel at Chena Hot Springs:



Sled dogs: