I've been going as a visitor for 10 years now, and it seems Anchorage, especially, has gotten more affordable. My favorite time to go is September, just after the crowds (will be there in a week, actually). Seems nothing like the economically hostile place depicted in the 70s movie "Joyride". I guess it has come a long way. Though I do feel a bit sorry for 'em in that they almost NEVER get the big concert tours (will see the White Stripes out there, but if you want the Police or U2, fuggeddaboudit).

It also seems that having award travel to/from Alaska at 25K miles is a major improvement over how it usedtabe.