Tezels on the Road

Category: Travel Blog

Tezels on the Road is our family’s travel journal—capturing the adventures, mishaps, and magic of life on the move. From scenic drives and national parks to hidden gems and roadside surprises, we share stories, tips, and snapshots from the journey.

  • Day 6: Exploring Sitka – Where Cultures Converge

    Day 6: Exploring Sitka – Where Cultures Converge

    Our final destination in Alaska was the picturesque city of Sitka, surrounded by scenic mountains, the sea, and lush islands.

    Exploring Tlingit Sitka

    After taking the shuttle from the cruise terminal to the town center, we embarked on a short walk to the Sitka National Historical Park Visitor Center and Totem Trail. The walk through the temperate rainforest offered breathtaking views of Sitka Sound. The Totem Trail showcased the rich heritage of the Tlingit and Haida people, who have inhabited this archipelago for centuries. While the totems are re-carvings, some original elements are displayed in Totem Hall at the visitor center.


    Gaanax.adi Raven Crest Pole stands tall among Sitka’s forest, telling stories through Tlingit art.

    Sunlight filters through Sitka’s forest canopy along the peaceful Totem Trail.
    Sitka National Historical Park

    Russian Sitka

    Sitka holds a unique history where Russian and Tlingit cultures met—and later clashed. Around lunchtime, we ventured into the Russian area of town. Passing by the Russian Bishop’s House, we arrived at St. Michael’s Orthodox Cathedral. The cathedral’s interior was adorned with sacred objects, reflecting the significance of iconography in Orthodox religion.

    Across from the cathedral, we visited Sitka Pel’Meni, where we indulged in our first taste of Russian dumplings for lunch. They were absolutely delicious, and we’re eager to try making them at home.

    Continuing our exploration of Russian Sitka, we climbed up the hill to the Russian Blockhouse. This rebuilt blockhouse stands as a testament to the Russian American Company’s blockade during the conflicts with the Tlingit.

    On a nearby hill, we arrived at Baranof Hill State Historic Site, also known as Castle Hill. This site held significant importance for the Tlingit people before the Russians established their headquarters here in 1805, after the Tlingit ceded the hill to them. Notably, the transfer of Alaska to the United States from Russia took place at this very site in 1867.

    St. Michael’s Cathedral stands tall in Sitka, Alaska, with its green spire and historic charm.
    Sitka Blockhouse
    Baranof Castle

    Returning to the Anthem of the Sea, we boarded and headed to the Solarium to witness our sail away through its expansive windows. As we bid farewell to Alaska for this year, we anticipate a sea day before reaching our final port of call, Victoria, British Columbia.

  • Day 5: Skagway & Dyea – Exploring Gold Rush History

    Day 5: Skagway & Dyea – Exploring Gold Rush History

    On the fifth day of our 2025 Alaska Cruise, we arrived in one of our favorite Alaskan towns: Skagway, home to the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. This marked our fourth visit to this beautiful town, and once again, we found new adventures waiting for us.

    A Special Reunion and a Drive to Dyea

    One of the highlights of Skagway is reconnecting with our friend Cory. This time, Cory generously lent us a truck, giving us the chance to drive out to Dyea, a historic boomtown that once thrived at the head of the Chilkoot Trail.

    Dyea played a pivotal role during the Gold Rush, serving as a launch point for thousands of stampeders. However, its location—on a shallow inlet surrounded by mudflats—made access difficult. The Chilkoot Trail, though shorter than the nearby White Pass, was steeper and more treacherous. These challenges led to Dyea’s rapid decline. Dyea boomed for only two years, and by 1905, most of its buildings were gone. Today, the National Park Service maintains trails and street signs that hint at its past.

    Historic street signs in Dyea framed by mountains and blue skies
    Peaceful waters and towering peaks at Taiya Inlet in Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
    Gateway to the legendary Chilkoot Trail

    Remembering the Palm Sunday Avalanche

    Nearby, we visited the Slide Cemetery, a somber site named after the Palm Sunday Avalanche of April 3, 1898. This tragic event claimed the lives of sixty stampeders, who are buried near Dyea.

    Final resting place along the Chilkoot Trail

    Skagway’s Colorful Past

    Back in Skagway, we explored the Gold Rush Cemetery, where the infamous Jefferson “Soapy” Smith is buried. Smith, a notorious con artist, met his end in a shootout on Juneau Pier in July 1898. He operated out of Jeff Smith’s Parlor, a building that Mark will be presenting a program on this Wednesday on board the Anthem of the Seas.

    Soapy Smith’s Grave

    Nature’s Beauty: Lower Reid Falls & Dewey Lake

    Just beyond the cemetery, we discovered Lower Reid Falls, a stunning cascade tumbling down from the mountains above Skagway. We then hiked the trail to Lower Dewey Lake, a serene alpine lake surrounded by rugged peaks. Along the way, we enjoyed breathtaking views of Skagway and the Anthem of the Seas docked below.

    A Perfect Ending

    Our day ended with drinks and snacks with Cory before returning to the ship. Sailing down the Chilkoot Inlet is always a magical way to conclude our time in Skagway.

    Tomorrow, we set sail for another favorite of Alaska: Sitka.

  • Alaska Cruise 2025 – Day 4: Juneau Adventures and Bear Encounters

    The morning of Day 4 found us sailing through the calm waters of the Inside Passage—a welcome change after a choppy day at sea. Our destination was Juneau, but before docking, Mark presented his second seminar on the CCC at Sitka, continuing his enhancement seminar series.

    Arrival in Juneau

    The Anthem of the Seas arrived in Juneau at noon, and we were soon ashore, ready for adventure. We rented a car through Turo, and our host Zachary W. had it waiting for us in the parking garage right next to the pier.

    Arrival in Juneau

    Exploring Mendenhall Glacier

    Our first stop was Mendenhall Glacier, a familiar site from two previous visits. However, this time we had the freedom of our own vehicle, allowing us to explore trails we had missed before.

    We began with a peaceful walk along the Trail of Time, moving through the temperate rainforest in the Tongass National Forest. Then we took a short stroll along the Steep Creek Trail, where we had an unforgettable wildlife encounter:

    🐻 A black bear sow was fishing in the creek, and soon we spotted her three cubs below. We watched as she begrudgingly shared her catch, while the cubs whined in protest over what they must have thought were meager rations—an incredible moment in nature.

    Next, we hiked the Nugget Falls Trail, which we had done on previous visits. But this time, the view was strikingly different.

    The retreat of the glacier was evident. In 2016, we could see the entire toe of the glacier from the falls. Now, it’s hidden behind stone at the lake’s edge—a sobering reminder of climate change.

    Entrance Sign at Mendenhall Glacier
    Serene Reflections at Mendenhall Glacier
    A black bear charges through Steep Creek in pursuit of a salmon near Mendenhall Glacier in Alaska.
    Sow and cubs feast in the forest near Mendenhall Glacier.
    A stunning view of Mendenhall Glacier surrounded by mountains and tranquil waters in Juneau, Alaska.
    Mount McGinnis rises above the forest near Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau, Alaska.
    Mendenhall Glacier

    A Peaceful Visit to the Shrine

    Our second stop was the National Shrine of Saint Therese, located even farther from central Juneau. The drive was scenic, and the shrine—a stone church nestled in the woods overlooking Favorite Channel—was the perfect place for contemplation and stunning views.

    Serenity at the National Shrine of Saint Therese
    National Shrine of Saint Therese
    Peaceful labyrinth garden overlooking the water at the Shrine of Saint Therese in Juneau, Alaska.

    After returning the rental car, we boarded the Anthem of the Seas once again. Tonight, we sail toward our next port: Skagway, home to the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park.

    Back to the Ship

    Anthem of the Seas in Juneau
  • 🌊 Alaska Cruise 2025 – Day 3: Sailing Toward the Last Frontier

    🌊 Alaska Cruise 2025 – Day 3: Sailing Toward the Last Frontier

    Our first full day aboard Anthem of the Seas was spent crossing the North Pacific, heading toward the rugged beauty of Alaska. The seas were rough for most of the day, but the energy onboard was anything but unsettled.

    Late in the morning, Mark presented his first enrichment program, “The Promise of Alaska,” which explored the legacy and impact of the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA). This landmark legislation, signed in 1980, protected over 100 million acres of Alaska’s wilderness—an inspiring reminder of the promise this land holds for future generations.

    Later, we attended a fascinating talk on The Biology of Humpback and Killer Whales, diving into the lives of these incredible marine mammals that thrive in Alaskan waters. It was the perfect primer for the wildlife encounters we hope to experience in the days ahead.

    Dinner was a delight at Jamie’s Italian, where the fresh pasta and warm hospitality made for a memorable meal. The evening continued with “The Gift,” a visually stunning and emotionally rich production show in the Royal Theater. The storytelling and stagecraft were top-notch.

    As the day came to a close, we stepped out onto the deck to witness a waxing crescent moon rising above the water, casting a soft glow over the waves—a peaceful and poetic end to a day filled with learning, movement, and anticipation.

    Tomorrow, we arrive in Juneau, our first port in Alaska. Adventure awaits!

  • Alaska 2025 Cruise – Day 2: Planes, Salmon, and Setting Sail

    This morning started with a reunion—our dear friend Rosamaria picked us up for a few hours of exploring before we officially embarked on our Alaska adventure. First stop: the Museum of Flight in Seattle, and wow, what a treasure trove of aviation history!

    We climbed aboard a space shuttle trainer, marveled at the Air Force One that Lyndon B. Johnson took the oath of office in (and that later carried Nixon to China), and explored the very first Boeing 747. The museum is packed with iconic aircraft and stories that span the entirety of aviation history. It was the perfect way to kick off a journey that’s all about discovery.

    Museum of Flight

    After soaking in the aviation history, we headed to Ivan’s Salmon House for lunch. The food was delicious, but the real treat was the view—Lake Union sparkled under the midday sun, and the Seattle skyline provided a stunning backdrop. It was a peaceful, scenic moment before the excitement of boarding the ship.

    Iver’s Salmon House

    After lunch, we arrived at the port and boarded the Anthem of the Seas, our floating home for the next week. We spent some time getting familiar with the ship—exploring the decks, checking out the venues, and settling into our stateroom.

    Onboard the Anthem of the Seas

    At 4:00 PM, the Anthem set sail, gliding away from Seattle and pointing north toward Alaska. We capped off the day with our first dinner onboard, followed by a lively Welcome Aboard show in the Royal Theater. The energy was high, the performers were fantastic, and it officially felt like the adventure had begun.

    Tomorrow: our first full day at sea and Mark’s first presentation

    For more photos and videos of our journey visit Alaska Cruise Highlights 2025

  • Explore Our Alaska Cruise Highlights – 2025

    Explore Our Alaska Cruise Highlights – 2025

    Our journey through the breathtaking landscapes and historic towns of Alaska was nothing short of unforgettable. From misty fjords and glacier-carved valleys to charming coastal cities rich with gold rush history, every moment was a story worth capturing.

    We’ve curated a special photo collection featuring highlights from our Alaska 2025 Cruise—including stops in Juneau, Sitka, Skagway, and scenic views from aboard Anthem of the Seas. Whether you’re dreaming of your own Alaskan adventure or reliving memories of the Last Frontier, we invite you to explore the sights through our lens.

    📸 View the full collection here:

    👉 https://wirestock.io/collection/65032

    From historic parks and vibrant markets to glacier vistas and waterfront strolls, this gallery brings together the spirit of Alaska in every frame.

  • Alaska 2025 Cruise – Day 1: From Texas Skies to Seattle Streets

    ✈️ Early Flights & Delays

    Our journey began bright and early in San Antonio with a flight that took us through LAX. After a delay on our connection, we finally arrived in Seattle by early afternoon—tired but excited to begin our Alaska cruise adventure.

    🏨 Settling In & Exploring Downtown

    After checking into our hotel near the airport, we headed downtown to stretch our legs and soak in some history. Our first stop was the Seattle Unit of Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, located in the historic Cadillac Hotel in Pioneer Square.

    Exterior view of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park Seattle Unit housed in the historic Cadillac Hotel building with brick architecture and signage marking the entrance to the visitor center in Pioneer Square.

    Historic gateway to the gold fields – Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park in Seattle

    This visitor center offers a compelling look at Seattle’s role in the Klondike Gold Rush of the 1890s. With two floors of exhibits, films like Gold Fever: Race to the Klondike, and stories of the stampeders who passed through Seattle on their way to the Yukon, it’s a must-visit for history buffs and curious travelers alike.

    🍽️ A Peruvian Surprise

    On our way to Pike Place Market, we stumbled upon a delightful Peruvian restaurant called Señor Carbón. The cozy atmosphere and flavorful dishes were just what we needed. We toasted the start of our trip with Pisco Sours, a perfect pairing for the early dinner.

    Close-up of a Pisco Sour cocktail in a clear glass with frothy top and orange garnish, set against a softly lit restaurant interior with pink walls.
    Two people smiling at a table inside a Peruvian restaurant with pink walls, brick accents, and festive decor including flags and framed pictures.
    Señor Carbón

    🛍️ Pike Place Market & Waterfront Walk

    After dinner, we wandered through Pike Place Market, enjoying the vibrant mix of vendors, fresh produce, flowers, and crafts. The energy was infectious, and the market was buzzing with life.

    The original Starbucks
    Pikes Place

    We ended the evening with a peaceful stroll along the Seattle waterfront, taking in views of Elliott Bay and the city skyline. It was the perfect way to wind down and reflect on the journey ahead.

    🚢 Tomorrow’s Adventure

    Tomorrow, we board Anthem of the Seas and begin our voyage to Alaska—the 49th state. We can’t wait to see what’s in store!

  • 🚢 Back to the Last Frontier: Our Fourth Alaska Cruise Begins!

    🚢 Back to the Last Frontier: Our Fourth Alaska Cruise Begins!

    On September 25, we set off once again for the wild beauty of Alaska—our fourth cruise to the 49th state, and we couldn’t be more excited. This time, we’ll be sailing aboard Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas, departing from Seattle on September 26. The ship is a marvel in itself, and we’re looking forward to both the journey and the destinations.

    But this trip is more than just sightseeing and sea breezes. For the second year, Mark will be presenting programs as a representative of the Association of National Park Rangers, sharing stories and history that connect deeply with Alaska’s landscapes and legacy.

    🎤 Onboard Presentations

    • 🗺️ The Promise of Alaska: The Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA)
      Explore how this landmark legislation protected over 100 million acres of Alaska’s wilderness, shaping the state’s conservation legacy and preserving its natural treasures for generations.
    • 🪓 The CCC at Sitka
      Learn how the Civilian Conservation Corps helped shape Sitka National Historical Park through the recarving of historic totem poles and the creation of the Totem Trail. This program also explores the rich cultural tapestry of Russian and Tlingit history in Sitka, offering a deeper understanding of the people and stories that define this remarkable place.
    • 🏛️ Preserving Jeff Smith’s Parlor: A Gold Rush Story
      Step into the colorful history of Skagway’s infamous con man and the efforts to preserve his legacy through the restoration of Jeff Smith’s Parlor—a window into the wild days of the Klondike Gold Rush.

    📣 Join Us Onboard!

    If you’ll be sailing with us on the Anthem of the Seas, we’d love to have you join us for these presentations! Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just curious about Alaska’s past, these talks offer a deeper look into the stories behind the scenery. Come say hello—we’d love to meet fellow travelers and share these fascinating chapters of Alaska’s heritage with you.

    We’re thrilled to be returning to Alaska, a place that continues to inspire us with its grandeur, history, and spirit. Whether it’s glaciers, wildlife, or the stories of those who shaped this land, there’s always something new to discover.

    Anchors aweigh!

    — Tezels on the Road

  • Day 18 – Heading Home, Hearts Full

    Day 18 – Heading Home, Hearts Full

    As the sun rose over London, we found ourselves at the final chapter of an unforgettable adventure. After seventeen days of breathtaking fjords, volcanic landscapes, charming villages, and rich history, it was time to head home—our hearts full, our minds swirling with memories.

    Yesterday’s visit to Stonehenge was the perfect send-off: ancient stones standing silent and strong, a reminder of the timelessness of travel and discovery. From the mystical shores of Iceland to the serene beauty of Norway, each stop offered something unique—whether it was the quiet reflection at Víkurgarður, the playful ducks at Tjörnin (the pond), or the majestic glaciers and waterfalls that seemed to defy gravity.

    We boarded our flight with a mix of emotions. There’s always a touch of sadness when a journey ends, but it’s softened by the joy of having experienced so much. We laughed, we learned, we wandered. We stood in awe of nature and history, and we shared it all together.

    Now, as we return to our routines, we carry with us the stories, the photos, and the quiet moments that made this trip so special. The Emerald Princess was more than a ship—it was our floating home, our gateway to wonder.

    Until the next adventure…

    Thank you, Norway and Iceland. You’ve left a mark on our souls.

    Our Journey

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