Six months in Barrow, Alaska, was an incredible opportunity that exposed me to a world quite different from what I had known. Beyond its reputation for some of the world’s harshest environmental conditions, there are several unique aspects of life in Barrow that caught me by surprise, given my previous experiences. Let me take a moment to highlight a few of these interesting facets.
- House numbers are singular, eliminating the need for street names when providing your address. It’s a simple and efficient system.
- “The plane” taking off and landing is a topic of conversation for everyone, underscoring the town’s reliance on aviation for connection to the outside world.
- Tipping taxi drivers isn’t customary in Barrow, simplifying the process of getting around town.
- The eagerly anticipated first sunrise of the year is a community event, bringing people together to witness this extraordinary moment in the Arctic.
- Barrow boasts a significant Pacific Islander population, adding to its cultural diversity.
- The communal spirit is evident during whaling season when everyone knows when a crew successfully catches a whale. The crew’s families and local residents join forces to process the whale, generously sharing the bounty with all who come to witness or assist.
- Residents often take the flight to Anchorage to shop at Costco, packing large plastic bins with their purchases for the return trip.
- Despite economic disparities, Barrow doesn’t wear its social classes on its sleeve, making it hard to distinguish between the upper and lower classes.
- Social media, particularly Facebook, plays a substantial role in the local economy, with a thriving marketplace for buying and selling food.
- You pump gas first and then pay, a practice reminiscent of my high school days.
This list offers just a glimpse of the distinctive aspects of life I witnessed in Barrow, which set it apart from my familiar world. The list is extensive, and I encouraged anyone intrigued and able to visit Barrow for a few days to discover even more. If you have the opportunity to stay longer, six months in this unique place can truly be life-changing.