Sitting on stilts at the base of the Tongass National Forest, Alaska's southernmost city is the self-proclaimed ‘Salmon Fishing Capital of the World'. The city's other claim to fame regards its 406-cm (160-inch) annual rainfall making it a contender for the United State's wettest city. The earliest visitors, the Tlingit natives, set up summer fish camps on the shores of Ketchikan Creek in what is now downtown.

For a glimpse of Ketchikan's rough and tumble past, tour Creek Street Historic District, a pedestrian area consisting of wooden boardwalks. Once a bustling red-light district, now it is home to art galleries, restaurants and gift shops. The native heritage is represented in the many totem poles found in the community, which claims to have the most in the world. Flight seeing or boat trips to nearby Misty Fiords National Monument, sport fishing and bear viewing are popular activities.

Highlights
• Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show
• Saxman Native Village
• SE Alaska Discovery Center
• Totem Bight State Historic Park
• Totem Heritage Center

Ketchikan Visitors Bureau
131 Front Street, Ketchikan, AK 99901, USA
Tel: +1 90722 56166.
Website: www.visit-ketchikan.com

Art is the number one purchase. Ketchikan is recognised as one of the top 100 art communities in the United States. Many of the galleries are owned by local artists who display both Native Alaskan and contemporary art. Northwest coast Native Alaskan arts such as totems, cedar baskets and cedar stone carvings are also available.

Salmon, halibut, crab and fish and chips are popular menu choices. Clam and smoked salmon chowders are other favourites. Alaskan delicacies include smoked salmon, wild berry products and reindeer sausage.

May through September is the most popular time to visit.

Alaska

GMT - 9.

US Dollar (US$) = 100 cents.

English.

Alaska, north of Canada and not connected to mainland USA.

13,500.

Federal Republic since 1789. Gained independence from the UK in 1776.

Protestant, with Roman Catholic and Jewish minorities.

Americans are renowned for their openness and friendliness to visitors. Shaking hands is the usual form of greeting. A relaxed and informal atmosphere is usually the norm. As long as the fundamental rules of courtesy and respect are observed, there need be no fear of offending anyone of any background.

Gifts are appreciated if one is invited to a private home. Casual dress is accepted in all restaurants and clubs, unless a special occasion is planned. Smoking is increasingly unpopular in the US; it is essential to ask permission before lighting up. Smoking is not allowed on city transport and restricted or forbidden in public buildings. There will be a posted notice where no smoking is requested.

Tipping: Widely practised, as service charges are not usually included in the bill and waiters depend heavily on tips for their income. Waiters generally expect 10 to 15% gratuity. It should be noted that a cover charge is for admission to an establishment, not a tip for service.