Stories and guides for a more thoughtful Alaska trip.
Crafted by Mary Jacquel, from lived experience, original photography, and practical insight.
Welcome to the journal. This is where I share thoughtful Alaska travel guides, destination advice, and stories shaped by lived experience. If you’re planning a trip north, you’ll find practical insight, beautiful places, and a more intentional way to experience Alaska.
Or Browse By Destination:
Juneau | Ketchikan | Skagway | Denali | General Alaska
What to Book in Advance for an Alaska Trip: A First-Timer’s Planning Guide
Planning an Alaska trip can look simple on paper, but some parts of the experience fill earlier than first-time visitors expect. Here’s what to book in advance, what can wait, and how to avoid overplanning the trip.
Ketchikan Cruise Port Guide: Downtown Berths vs. Ward Cove, Shuttles, Walking, and What to Expect
Planning a stop in Ketchikan? This cruise port guide explains the difference between downtown berths and Ward Cove, including how far each is from town, what transportation looks like, and what to expect so you can make the most of your time in port.
Alaska’s Grandeur and Magnificence: Tiny Humans in a Vast, Wild Place
A quiet story about why I’m drawn to tiny humans in big Alaska places—and how that turned into a limited edition fine art print collection: Alaska’s Grandeur and Magnificence.
Alaska Cruise Photography Guide: 12 Shots To Consider (And How to Capture Them)
Local Juneau photographer shares 12 must-have Alaska cruise photos—whales, glaciers, ports, and quiet deck moments—plus simple tips for phone and camera.
Alaska Photography Tips | Photographing Orcas in Southeast Alaska
It is always exciting to see Orcas while cruising through the waters of Southeast Alaska. Since they move so quickly and the lighting isn’t always the best, I thought I’d share my top 3 pieces of advice for photographing Orcas.
Alaska Eagle Photography | 4 places to photograph eagles in Juneau, Alaska
If you have visited Juneau, Alaska, then you have probably spotted a few Bald Eagles flying overhead or sitting on lamp posts and have heard their distinctive cries. Their massive wing spans, powerful jaws and impressive talons all add to this bird’s allure.
I’m so glad you’re here.
This is a cornerstone of Alaska-inspired stories, photography, and small rituals - for people who want to travel, and live, with more intention.
Written from Juneau, Alaska by a photographer who lives here.