Travel RN to Anchorage (neighborhoods, university, to live in)

[travelin'bones]

Hi everyone.

I am considering a 13 week assignment in Anchorage in January, no I'm not crazy, it's a pretty good paying gig!

Some things I'd like to know:

-any word on Providence hospital?
-are the roads snow covered daily, is it recommened to have 4 wheel drive? I'm not the most experienced driving in snow, but know to go slow, super slow. Are the roads flat or hilly and icy all winter?
-I get there's little sunchine, is it also unbearably cold and windy, or just cold?? I've lived in Chicago and Michigan in the winter, so I'm no stranger to ten degree temps!
-What do people do in the winter?? Are there any places to visit? Like daytrips? I've always wanted to visit Alaska and never thought it would be in the winter. Will I still get to see some things, such as beautiful nature??
-If you were me, where would you want to live?? How are the neighborhoods that are close to the hospital??

Any input appreciated!!!!!!! Thanks alot.

[roadfamily6now]

Weather in Anchorage should be similar to that where you have already been. Cold Windy, snowy, icy etc. You name it we get it. Roads here are mostly snowy, and icy. Hills and flats. If you are not well versed in driving in the snow I do recommend a 4x4 or all-wheel drive vehicle. Studded tires are a must have.

What section of Providence will you be working in? I am familiar with the civilian point of view of the L&D section.

[Glitch]

Originally Posted by travelin'bones

Hi everyone.

I am considering a 13 week assignment in Anchorage in January, no I'm not crazy, it's a pretty good paying gig!

Some things I'd like to know:

-any word on Providence hospital?
-are the roads snow covered daily, is it recommened to have 4 wheel drive? I'm not the most experienced driving in snow, but know to go slow, super slow. Are the roads flat or hilly and icy all winter?
-I get there's little sunchine, is it also unbearably cold and windy, or just cold?? I've lived in Chicago and Michigan in the winter, so I'm no stranger to ten degree temps!
-What do people do in the winter?? Are there any places to visit? Like daytrips? I've always wanted to visit Alaska and never thought it would be in the winter. Will I still get to see some things, such as beautiful nature??
-If you were me, where would you want to live?? How are the neighborhoods that are close to the hospital??

Any input appreciated!!!!!!! Thanks alot.

The municipality is pretty good at snow removal. Within 72 hours of a major snow storm they will have all the roads in Anchorage cleared of snow, and a couple days after that all the major intersections will be sanded.

Anchorage winters are closer to Omaha, NE, as far as temperature is concerned. Typically in the +10°F to +20°F range. However, February does tend to get colder. Sometimes dropping to -20°F but usually not for more than a day or two before warming up again. Winter is the second prettiest season of the year, and a lot less crowded.

February is the month-long Fur Rondy celebration in Anchorage. So there will be lots of activities are available. The Iditarod begins March 5, 2011 and will start in Anchorage.

If I were working at Providence, I would be looking to live in the University, Airport Heights, or Campbell Park areas.

[AADAD]

Prov is the big player in town. Very busy. Where will you be working?

[travelin'bones]

Thanks so much for the input---much appreciation!

I have, however, decided to postpone the Alaska adventure until the weather is better, when I can really explore Alaska's beautiful country-side!! I don't want to miss the best parts if I'm there.

Thanks again for the replies.