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Noam Bedein
Sustainable Family World Travel

A Sustainable Journey in Alaska: Conservation and Healing Through Nature

In August 2024, my family and I embarked on a year-long mission, Bedein—Agents of Hope, driven by a deep commitment to environmental resilience and societal healing. Alaska, known for its untamed beauty, became our starting point, where we spent an entire month. Our time in Alaska allowed us to immerse ourselves in nature and engage with key conservation projects. These efforts inspired us to reflect on how sustainable travel can contribute not only to environmental preservation but also to healing, both for nature and people. This journey provided us with valuable insights, which we hope to bring back to Israel to inspire environmental and social transformation.

Arriving in Alaska: Adapting to a New Rhythm with the Changing Seasons

We arrived in Alaska at the end of August, after a 32-hour journey from Tel Aviv to Anchorage via Los Angeles. The 11-hour time difference was challenging, but the effort was well worth it. Arriving as summer transitioned into fall, we were greeted by thinning crowds and quieter landscapes, allowing for a more intimate experience with Alaska’s stunning natural beauty.

The rapid shift in seasons was immediately noticeable. As summer gave way to autumn, daylight hours diminished by about five minutes each day, and up to 15 minutes per day as fall approached. This transformation painted the trees with vibrant hues of yellow and orange, and the air grew crisper each day. We adjusted our schedule to make the most of the daylight hours, taking in the peaceful transition of Alaska’s wilderness.

Exploring Alaska on a Family-Friendly Budget

Alaska’s wild beauty is awe-inspiring, but its remote location makes it one of the most expensive U.S. states to visit. Managing our family’s budget was crucial, and we found that with careful planning, it was possible to enjoy the state’s wonders without overspending.

We based ourselves in the town of Palmer, about an hour’s drive from Anchorage. This location saved us the expense of flights to more remote destinations and allowed us to explore much of south-central Alaska by car. Our children, aged 8 and 5, enjoyed the comfort of a fixed home base between our adventures, which helped them adjust to the significant time difference.

During our trip, we discovered that Alaska offers various cost-saving opportunities for military veterans, including foreign veterans like us from Israel. Many attractions and stores provide discounts for veterans, including national parks and state fairs held at the end of summer. By taking advantage of these discounts, we were able to enjoy Alaska’s culture and natural beauty while sticking to our budget.

For example, when we attended the state fair in late August, we were pleasantly surprised by how much we saved on entry fees thanks to military discounts. These discounts also helped us with national parks and other attractions. This is a significant benefit for families traveling with children, as even small savings can greatly impact the overall budget.

One of our surprising discoveries was Alaska’s thrift stores. Whether we needed hiking gear, toys for the kids, or extra layers for the unpredictable weather, these stores became a treasure trove and helped us stay within our budget. Alaska’s weather is unpredictable, and we quickly learned that layers are essential, especially for the kids. We packed rain jackets, warm sweaters, and sturdy hiking boots, preparing ourselves for any weather during our outdoor adventures. Families looking to make the most of Alaska’s natural beauty should plan outdoor activities earlier in the day, as daylight diminishes rapidly during the transition from summer to fall.

Despite the changing seasons, Alaska’s wilderness remained rich with wildlife. However, we learned that September coincides with Alaska’s hunting season, making it harder to spot wild moose and bears. Unlike industrial hunting, Alaska’s hunting practices are solely for personal use and reflect a sustainable relationship with the environment. This balance between conservation and traditional ways of life gave us a unique insight into the cultural values cherished by Alaskans.

Exploring Conservation in Alaska: Hands-On Learning Through Five Key Projects

Our mission in Alaska was centered on learning how conservation efforts can foster both environmental and societal resilience. During our journey, we had the opportunity to visit five major conservation projects that offered lessons we can carry back to Israel.

  1. Alaska SeaLife Center: A Lifeline for Marine Conservation
    Our visit to the Alaska SeaLife Center in Seward was far more than a simple marine animal exhibition. This facility is dedicated to the conservation, research, and rehabilitation of Alaska’s marine wildlife, playing a crucial role in preserving fragile ecosystems. We witnessed the rehabilitation of two premature harbor seal pups, PV2404 and PV2405, and saw firsthand the dedication required to return these animals to their natural habitat. Watching the seals swim back into the ocean after months of care was an emotional moment for our family, especially for our children. This experience demonstrated how human intervention can be a lifeline for vulnerable marine species.
    Learn more: Exploring Alaska’s Marine Wonders 
  2. Musk Ox Farm: A Glimpse Into Ice Age Conservation
    In Palmer, we visited the Musk Ox Farm, where efforts to preserve this ancient Ice Age species are underway. Musk oxen, which once roamed the earth alongside woolly mammoths, are now part of an essential conservation project to protect Arctic wildlife from the impacts of climate change. The farm also focuses on sustainable commerce by harvesting qiviut, the soft undercoat shed by musk oxen each spring. This fiber, which is softer than cashmere, is sustainably collected and sold, providing economic support to both the farm and global artisans. This visit reinforced the idea that conservation and economic development can go hand in hand.
    Learn more: Up Close with Ice Age Giants 
  3. Stewart Family Resort: Healing Through Nature
    The Stewart Family Resort in Glacier View was the most impactful stop on our Alaskan journey. Originally built as a Christian summer camp, this serene retreat has evolved into a sanctuary for Israeli families and others affected by trauma, offering a place to heal through the power of nature. The Stewart family has lived among Alaska’s indigenous communities for over three decades and has developed deep expertise in creating healing spaces through nature. During our stay, we began envisioning a collaborative project to bring Israeli veterans and trauma survivors to this sanctuary for therapeutic retreats. The connection between nature and healing is a central tenet of our mission, and the Stewart family’s work offers a model for what we hope to achieve in Israel.
    Learn more: Alaska’s Embrace
  4. The Lighthouse Resort: A Luxurious Yet Sustainable Escape
    Our final destination was the Lighthouse Resort in Homer, run by Elisheva Garvey, who has a deep connection to Israel and is dedicated to sustainable tourism. This luxurious resort overlooks Kachemak Bay and perfectly balances comfort with environmental consciousness. Elisheva’s commitment to healing through nature and her emphasis on eco-friendly tourism was a powerful reminder of how nature can serve as a foundation for resilience. Her research into therapeutic recovery aligns closely with our mission to create healing spaces for trauma survivors, and her efforts serve as an inspiration for similar projects in Israel.
    Learn more: A Hidden Gem in Homer 
  5. Eco-Kayaking in Resurrection Bay: Sustainable Tourism in Action
    Another highlight was our eco-kayaking adventure with Miller’s Landing in Resurrection Bay. As we paddled through the bay, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and vibrant autumn colors, we were taught the importance of sustainable tourism. Our guides were passionate advocates for minimizing environmental impact, educating us about the local wildlife and ecosystems. This tour exemplified how responsible tourism can both enhance the visitor’s experience and contribute to the protection of natural resources.
    Learn more: A Family’s Eco-Kayaking Adventure with Miller’s Landing

Lessons for Israel: Nature as a Tool for Healing

Our journey through Alaska was more than just an exploration of conservation; it was a profound experience that deepened our understanding of how nature can serve as a tool for healing and resilience. Alaska’s vast wilderness taught us the power of nature to restore both the environment and the human spirit.

As we continue our journey through Canada and British Columbia, we carry with us the knowledge that these wild, remote places hold the potential to serve as sanctuaries for Israel’s mentally injured—especially those suffering from the scars of war. In Israel, nature holds similar promise. The Dead Sea Revival Project, which I have led for seven years, is one such example of how Israel’s natural wonders can become platforms for healing. Just as Alaska’s wild landscapes offer hope, Israel’s unique ecosystems—from the Dead Sea to its water sources—can inspire resilience and recovery in a nation that desperately needs it.

Noam Bedein is the founder and director of the Dead Sea Revival Project, where he has led efforts for seven years to promote eco-tourism and explore innovative methods of conservation through sustainable travel in various parts of the world.               #bedein_agentsofhope

About the Author
Join the Bedein Family—Adi and Noam, Lavie (8) and Itam (5)—on their Mission of Hope and Unity. As they travel across the United States and Central America, their journey extends beyond mere travel, engaging and empowering diverse communities through educational experiences. Noam Bedein, a leader with over 18 years in social projects, has spearheaded environmental and educational initiatives in Israel. Notably, he has contributed to ecological conservation through the Dead Sea Revival Project and enhanced public awareness with the Sderot Media Center. Recently, he managed foreign affairs at ISRAEL-is during the Gaza war, focusing on strategic communications and international relations. Adi Rabinowitz Bedein, is a seasoned Holocaust educator and VIP guide at Yad Vashem and the October 7th Burnt Vehicles Compound. She delivers impactful lectures and workshops as the founder of the Network for Innovative Holocaust Education (NIHE).