Sitka, Alaska
While on board the MS Amsterdam, I had time to read about some of the attractions in Sitka from one of the travel guides we borrowed from the ship's library. We read that the city had a strong Russian influence and that we certainly saw when we went exploring. Unlike the ports we visited throughout the state, here, we took a shuttle to downtown from the dock. The ride must have taken 15 to 20 minutes tops and the drivers doubled as guides telling us passengers pertinent stories and anecdotes about the city.
Sitka turned out to be very walkable with its sights all within walking distance from each other. We were very pleased we didn't have to take any shore excursion. We certainly loved all the time we had at our disposal.
The St. Michael Russian Orthodox Cathedral was the very first city attraction we saw and visited in Sitka. Having visited Russian Orthodox churches in many countries in Europe, I could say that St. Michael's looked and felt very similar. It definitely was very authentically Russian. No doubts whatsoever. Be forewarned though that there was an admission fee although it was referred to as a donation. At any rate, the compulsory donation per person was $5.
The facade of St. Michael's Russian Orthodox Cathedral
Inside St. Michael's Russian Orthodox Cathedral. Marc had to wait a while for the cathedral to empty out a bit before he could take this picture. Fellow tourists filled the cathedral when we were there.
Here's my mandatory photo opp inside the cathedral.
