Greetings to Our Alaskan Visitors!

For the past three summers, I’ve had the privilege of hosting book signings for the hundreds of guests who arrive by bus at the Settlers Bay Lodge in Knik. Each time I see the long line of buses pulling in, I can’t help but think back to the old television show Fantasy Island, where Tattoo would famously call out, “De Plane! De Plane!”

Here at the lodge, the memory always makes me smile. As the buses roll in and guests begin to step off, I quietly think, “De Bus! De Bus!” Just like on the show, each passenger carries a unique story, and no two are alike.

One by one, the travelers unload—each a special soul in their own right, each deserving of the title “VIP.” Every arrival feels like an unfolding chapter in an ever-growing storybook.

Most of these visitors are either heading to or returning from the Denali Wilderness. Though more than a dozen buses may arrive around noon lunch time, the process is smooth and well-organized, ensuring that no one has to wait long before enjoying the lodge’s famous buffet.

For the next three hours or so, I get to meet an extraordinary mix of people—friendly, positive, and nearly all equipped with a cell phone and a great attitude!

After their meals, guests often wander through the lodge, taking in the fascinating displays of Alaska’s wildlife. Others stroll outside to photograph the lush flora surrounding the property or to capture the breathtaking views of the mountain range towering over Cook Inlet.

Many eventually find their way to my table, tucked between two majestic Colorado Blue Spruce near the front entrance. It’s there that I display and sign copies of the Alaskan-themed books I’ve written over the years.

Every encounter feels personal and meaningful. Visitors come from every corner of the United States and from countries far beyond. Some are retired professionals; others are still deeply engaged in their careers. Most are adults, but I always enjoy seeing children tagging along with their parents or grandparents. Newlyweds are easy to spot—their joy practically radiates. Each person brings a story worth hearing.

What unites them all, whether seasoned traveler or first-time explorer, is the sense of being honored guests—true VIPs. I often notice how warmly they are greeted by the Princess Tours staff and Settlers Bay Lodge team, each visitor treated not just as a customer but as a welcomed friend of Alaska.

Some encounters stand out vividly in my memory. I once met Sean Swarner, who, despite having only one lung and surviving two terminal cancers, climbed Mount Everest. Another time, a determined young woman told me she had run marathons in forty-nine states and had come to Alaska to complete her goal of 50 marathons in all 50 states, and was here to run the Mayor’s Marathon in Anchorage.

There was also Bob Hopkins, the nationally recognized philanthropist and entrepreneur. After meeting him, I found myself inspired to embrace the idea that perhaps, in my own small way, I, too, am a philanthropist.

And then came Dr. Loren W. Acton, an astronaut from the Spacelab 2 mission—what an honor to shake his hand and visit with him and his wife Evelyn!

 On another occasion, I met an actress from the popular series The Chosen. Add to that the many retired first responders, nurses, teachers, professors, doctors, fellow authors, and military veterans I’ve spoken with. Conversations with Vietnam veterans, in particular, left me deeply moved and appreciative of their service.

Each visitor brings a light, a positive energy that enriches the day. Many tell me this journey to Alaska is the fulfillment of a lifelong dream, and I feel privileged to be a small part of that dream.

And then, as the last bus pulls away, a hush settles over the lodge. The instant friendships of the afternoon dissolve into a quiet memory, yet the conversations and connections linger within me. It feels as though every person I met left behind a gift, and I would like to think that I left them with something too.

Perhaps, just perhaps, our paths will cross again someday, and if not, the great memories will suffice. 

Cheers!

G.B. Jones

September 9, 2025

The Alaskan summer of 2025 fades, and the birch leaves turn into shades of gold and brown, heralding the arrival of fall in the Great Land. This summer has been a joy-filled season for me, meeting and greeting hundreds of visitors who dined at the spectacular Settlers Bay Lodge in Knik, Alaska, on their journeys to and from the mighty Mt. Denali. Pictured here on a crisp autumn day is Monica Piaquadio with me, G.B. Jones—one of the many wonderful travelers whose paths have crossed mine. Truly, it has been the experience of a lifetime to welcome so many kind and adventurous souls from around the world. Wherever you may be now, I send my warmest wishes and gratitude for sharing a moment of your journey here.
—G.B. Jones, September 8, 2025