In a tiny Alaskan town called Whittier, a woman named Jamie Loan, 36, lives with her husband Kyle, 37, in a waterfront flat they bought for just £15,000. This town, with only 270 residents, sees 75% of its populace residing in a 14-storey tower block known as Begich Towers Condominium (BTI). The remaining residents, including Jamie, live in other locations within the town.
Whittier experiences extreme winters with temperatures dropping to -20C and prolonged darkness from November to March. Jamie, originally from Florida, moved to Alaska at a young age and finds the lifestyle in Whittier a balance between coastal living and harsh winter conditions.
The BTI not only serves as a residential complex but also houses a convenience store and acts as the central postal address for all residents. The local school, connected to the tower via a tunnel, caters to students aged five to 18 and offers outdoor activities like kayaking and camping.
During the winter months, Whittier becomes isolated, and residents have limited access to amenities, relying on a corner shop and a local diner for basic needs. Any major shopping or medical visits require a one-hour drive to the nearest town.
Despite the challenges, Jamie appreciates the close-knit community in Whittier, where residents come together for holidays and social gatherings. The town, though small, offers various employment opportunities, especially in the thriving summer tourism sector, allowing locals to enjoy a unique lifestyle.
While winter in Whittier brings extreme cold and isolation, residents like Jamie find joy in activities like skiing, sledding, and observing the northern lights. The town’s remote location surrounded by mountains and glaciers adds to its appeal for those seeking adventure and space to roam.
