Jim’s Great Adventure to Alaska

At 76, I’ve seen almost every corner of this country, but Alaska is the final frontier—the only state left on my map. I have a ritual: when I arrive somewhere new, I plant both feet firmly on the ground and tell myself, “I’ve done it.” I can already feel the ghost of that Alaskan chill through my boots.

The journey begins with the quiet whir of my electric car as we trek to Chicago. It’s a long-distance test of battery and nerves I’ve never tried before. From there, the rhythm shifts to the heavy iron-clanking of the Amtrak Empire Builder. We’ll spend three days and two nights watching the heartland blur past from “deluxe” bedrooms—tiny puzzles of polished surfaces—curious if the rocking rails will actually let me sleep.

After a scenic run on the Cascades to Vancouver, we board the Disney Magic. I’ve secured a stateroom with a veranda; I want nothing—no glass, no walls—between me and the breaching whales or the blue-white shimmer of the glaciers.

Tonight, the air is thick with questions. Can a 76-year-old frame handle the rigors of the rails and the sea? Will the car hold its charge through the Midwest? Being a cruise novice, will I even enjoy life on the water?

The anticipation is a restless companion, but the answers start tomorrow. Stick around—I’ll be giving you a daily update on everything I learn.

I’m Jim Sabastian