Fairbanks is the place
This is my first time in Fairbanks, AK and it’s a pretty interesting place to be. Beginning with the taxi ride from the airport everyone has been friendly and very knowledgeable.
Raymond, the taxi driver, was not born in the United States. You see he has lived here since before this area became a state. But he grew up following in his father’s footsteps as a fisherman. Ray is a little older now and has left the fishing behind for the more stable and quiet life as a cab driver. He loves his life here and wouldn’t have it any other way.
I have run in to several other people like Ray in the three days since I flew in from California. Most of them are transplants from the lower 48. They all seem to have come here for different reasons. Some followed their jobs, some their spouses, and others their hearts. But they all seem to share a spirit that lets others know that they are here because they want to be, not because they have to be.
They love the open spaces and the endless possibilities to do what they feel like doing. They enjoy being outside in the natural world weather it’s hunting or hiking, or fishing in one of the many streams in the area. And they will be the first ones to tell you how great this place is.
I have only seen Fairbanks for this short time, covered in snow, and pretty low key. I am looking forward to being here later in the year when life begins to stir and people start moving around outside again. The snow will clear, the landscape will change with the seasons and the people will get back to doing what they do best, living in the place they love.