Sunday, April 26, 2015

Explore Two Historic Cultures At Adventurous Places To Stay In Haida Gwaii

By Stella Gay


There is a distant archipelago of remote islands located just south of the Gulf of Alaska that offer a chance to get away from the humdrum tourist spots and really enjoy nature. Many travelers fly and drive to get there. They want to see what is special about this island grouping. They discover much when arriving at the former St. Charlotte Islands. The cultures of Great Britain and the original settlers are both apparent in the lodgings and activities.

Though there are several towns peppered along the sea shore and nestled into the local rain forests, this is not a place that can accommodate large numbers of visitors. Advance reservations for lodgings are important and tickets for ferries, planes and other forms of transportation are also recommended. The planning you do to find out what you want to see and do will help you to decide which places to stay in haida gwaii.

Some say that the Haida Nation has existed as a culture on this secluded archipelago for at least thirteen thousand years. Ever since the ice age, it is thought, the distinct clans of this native group have continued their oral story telling, sung songs about their lives and infused their dwellings and lives with distinctive artwork. During the time of British ownership of the land, the rich culture of Great Britain also flourished here, making it possible for people to learn about the Haida people, too. Exploration brought the earliest Spaniards and subsequent European visitors, and the desire to explore this unique spot continues to bring others today.

Some intrepid travelers will journey to the mystical archipelago to experience wilderness camping. There are sites near towns and along some beaches. Some require advance reservations but others do not. Keeping in mind that this is a season activity, from about July through September will help you to plan this kind of stay.

In this area of the Pacific Northwest, salmon is king. Fishermen come from miles away to experience the power of sport fishing in the ocean or on the rivers. There are excellent lodges based along the bays offering guided day trips with expert assistants along to help visitors with their gear, tackle and bait. Appropriate clothing is also provided, and sturdy vessels with full crew and meals go out for over ten hours each day.

For someone missing the charm and peacefulness of a small town, Queen Charlotte City is perfect. There are bed and breakfast inns here, as well as nice hotels and restaurants. Many enjoy the delicious foods sold at the city farmers market or local farms.

Private guest lodges and houses are available for rent in Tlell, Masset and Port Clemens, though these are only some of the towns that offer these accommodations. Most feature pleasant modern furnishings with locations close to beaches, rain forests, restaurants and local art studios.

Popular day sight seeing include the Gwaii Haanas National Park or the Haida Heritage Center and Museum. Activities such as surfing, hiking, and whale watching are all favorites. Though it is possible to book stays in hotels, cabins and private guest homes, it can be nice to get away from the busier spots and stay in the town of Sandspit. It is the only one on Moresby Island. Enjoying this magical archipelago and its two cultures is a visual feast.




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