Bridging Continents: Unveiling The Mystique Of Russia And Alaska’s Proximity!

Sep 20, 2023

Last Updated on: Sep 19, 2024

Travel Blog

Did you know that the United States took Alaska away from Russia? Do you know how far is Russia from Alaska?

The two Diomedes Islands, belonging to the USA and Russia, have a mysterious relationship due to their standard time and geographical features. Read the article to uncover the truth behind the mysterious relationship!

The two largest countries worldwide, the United States and Russia are 21 hours apart. Alaska is situated nearest to Russia, being a state of the U.S. The Bering Strait is the geographic point between the borders of Russia and the United States! Want to learn more about this point? Keep reading.

Isn’t it weird that Little Diomede residents depended on helicopters for food? Marine beings play an important role; hence, I will highlight the significance of aquatic animals in the mystery.

Bridging Continents: Unveiling The Mystique Of Russia And Alaska’s Proximity!

Unveiling The Mystique Of Russia And Alaska's Proximity

How far is Alaska from Russia? You have to read the article to learn about how the two nations, the United States and Russia, are claiming their rights on the two Diomedes Islands. Guess the interesting aspects of the Island and why it is all mysterious.

The time and the geographical differences between the two points of the Islands make you question the International Date Line and the American-Russian maritime border. Being a day ahead by a day of the Big Diomedes as compared to Little Diomedes makes you question the time zone concerns!

It is quite curious to know how the islands have been named and their significance concerning the history of Alaska and Russia. There are Alaskan natives to be considered among all these political, geographical, and time zone aspects. Want to know the distance between Alaska and Russia?

Separated By Geography And United By Mystery!

Separated By Geography And United By Mystery

Want to know how far is Russia from Alaska? The closest geographical connection between Russia and Alaska is the Diomede Islands, which are 2.4 miles apart. Water is separating the two Islands, in another way, separating the two countries.

The two islands are the extremes of the two countries, thus claiming the big and the little Diomedes Islands as the symbolic sentinels. The two countries have a history of heroic explorers who have sledded, kayaked, and swum across the distance.

A 2.4-mile distance between the two Islands is connected with the water body, the Pacific Ocean. With a very rocky history, the Islands share an indigenous group of people; however, it needs to be considered more important by the nations.

The Bering Strait

The Bering Strait

The narrowest point between the Seward Peninsula (U.S.) and the Kamchatka Peninsula (Russia) is 55 miles, separating Alaska from Russia. This waterway was discovered by a second European, a Danish explorer, Vitrus Bering, who inspired the Berling Strait.

The first explorer of this frigid waterway was the Russian explorer Semyon Dezhnev! Vitrus Bering named the place Greek Christian Saint Diomede because he discovered the Islands on 16 August 1728.

This day coincides with the feast day. Hence, the Island was named the Big Diomede Island and the Little Diomede Island. The Bering Strait is significant because it is the only marine gateway that allows mass migration of gray whales, bowhead, and beluga.

It is known as an important ecological zone for marine animals. Seals, walruses, fish, and other marine animals can access nutrient-rich Arctic Ocean environments through this zone.

The Big Diomede Island

The Big Diomede Island

The Ratmonov island is towards Russia and is also claimed as Russian Island, which is the nation’s easternmost point. It was in 1867 that the Alaskan Territory was sold on a $7 million sale.

During the Cold War and World War II, the Island was a perfect location for the outposts of the Soviet military. The rocky Island is flat and houses up to 11 species of birds with rough weather with clouds and storms.

The Little Diomede Island

The Little Diomede Island

Little Diomede Island is the smallest of the two Islands, with a population of 80 to 100 citizens! You can only access the Island by waterways or through one heliport in town. They receive their supplies from mainland Alaska as these are the only two ways!

During the harsh winters, the Island is covered with thick ice sheets, so the locals must carve the ice sheets to create landing zones. It is situated in the eastern area.

The Time Difference Between The Two Islands!

Time Difference Between The Two Islands

So, if you are wondering, how far away is Alaska from Russia? The International Date Line (IDL) separates the two Islands, Big Diomedes Island and Little Diomedes Island, which makes the time difference so apparent! The Big Diomedes Island is known as Tomorrow Isle as it is 21 hours ahead of time.

So, wanna know how far from Russia to Alaska? The Little Diomedes Island is known as the Yesterday Isle because it was further back then. Overall, the two islands are separated by 23 hours. The 9 hours have been adjusted concerning daylight saving time!

Apart from that, 12 hours have been established for managing the timezone of the Island along with the nations! So now you have got the answer to your question, how far is Russia from Alaska!

Alaska Was Taken Away From Russia!

It was in 1867 that Alaska was purchased from Russia by the United States, thus becoming a political separation. During this time, a new border was drawn across the two islands.

During the Cold War, the section of the Bering Strait was nicknamed the “Ice Curtain” between the two Islands. The islands are situated south of the Arctic Circle, about 52 miles apart.

Read More: Six Important Factors To Consider Before Planning Alaska Fishing Trip

The Politics Of Diomede Islands!

The Indigenous Inupiat people claim the two Diomedes Islands as theirs; however, both the nations, the USA and Russia, have disrespected these claims. The two countries have made national declarations regarding the Diomedes Islands as their extreme points.

The Bering Strait can become a bottleneck for ship traffic that will pollute the ecosystem. The narrow area acts as a pathway with a fragile ecosystem with oil spills and engine noise.

Finishing Off…

So, to answer, how far is Russia from Alaska? For the answer, read the article! When learning about the political history of Alaska related to Russia and the USA, there is the question: How far is Russia from Alaska? It was important to understand how close the countries are, and yet there is a time gap between them.

The interesting thing was naming the Islands and how it impacted people’s perceptions. Apart from the mystery, the concern is how nobody is giving importance to the indigenous people of Alaska! The governments of both Russia and the United States are not concerned about the people.

Comment to let us know your perspective on the time difference between the Big and Little Diomedes islands!

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Sagnika Sinha is a content writer who is passionate about writing travel vlogs, entertainment and celebrity articles and literature-based pieces. With a 4 years experience in teaching, she loves reading books. A procrastinator by nature, she loves travelling, listening to music, planting and gardening.

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Best National Parks In Illinois To Visit In 2023!

BY  Abdul Aziz Nov 19, 2021

These national parks Illinois will give you the ultimate experience of ‘Breathing within nature.’ Chicago, the windy city! That is the first thought that comes to our mind when we think about the state Illinois located in the central estern region of the United States Of America. Although Chicago is the perfect destination when it comes to relieving the American nostalgia with vintage buildings and dinners, all our nature’s enthusiasts will be leaning more towards the Mississippi river bay of Illinois. One more thing that attracts travellers towards this town are the breathtaking national parks illinois. It is no short of windy roads and state parks giving you the serene experience that the city of Chicago can’t. These national parks near Illinois will give you the ultimate experience of ‘Breathing within nature.’ Following the general US restrictions, travel to Illinois from other states and countries have been open. National Parks In Illinois Taking the famous route 66 which trails to the pacific west coast, then you will tumble across two of the most well known Illinois national parks which can be a jackpot for people who take a special interest in the history of the state. It is known as the ‘Land of Lincoln’ afterall! These national parks in Illinois also have excellent hiking trails. Are There Any National Parks In Illinois? Yes, Illinois has two major national parks. These are Pullman National Monument Lincoln Home National Historic Site. However, they are mostly national park services. Nevertheless, they don’t fall short of showing the mesmerizing beauty of nature. However, if hiking is more in your forte then here are the three more National historic trails of the national park Illinois which you can add to your itinerary. Here Are The List Of National Park Illinois Trails Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Trail Of Tears National Historic Trail Are Illinois National Parks Open? Following every Covid Guideline, National parks Illinois have been opened for travel. Pullman National Monument This Illinois national park is located in the northern side of the state. It will take you less than thirty minutes to reach the location from Chicago. It is a small national park which is evidently surrounded by districts which have found their place in American history. This district is known to be the first planned one in the whole country. Other than the short walks you can take throughout the community and fill your day with other attractive sightseeing then go for the Pullman park which is a must. If you are nature’s prodigy and love camping then you might find a place right in this national park Illinois. However, on travelling a little west you will find the beautiful MacMahon Woods to have a night or two in the wilderness. Lincoln Home National Historic Site This Illinois national park is located in the breathtaking state capital Springfield. It gets its name because of the fact that the former president resided here with his family before becoming the president of the United States. The national park itself is not that big, but nevertheless sublime. Therefore, it won't take you more than an hour or two to cover the entire ground. However, the main attraction here is not there woods, it is Lincoln house itself which has a visiting entry. There is also a show that airs regarding this subject. Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail National park Illinois trails are the perfect blend which will give you a look at the locals and the mesmerizing nature that surrounds it. Although, make sure you know your route and sites since there are certain private properties that do not allow the entrance of outside public. Since it is in the south of the Mississippi River, you can find hiking trails, scenic beauties, and camping ground. If you have plans to travel a little towards the west, Shimek state forest among the national parks in Illinois. Trail Of Tears National Historic Trail The next on the list of the best national parks in Illinois is the Trail of Tears, also known as the “Journey of Injustice.” Most urban places may be reached by car in just one hour from one of these routes, which are dispersed all throughout the nation. We can better appreciate Native Americans' history and struggles by studying the Trail of Tears, a national historic trail. The Indian Removal Act was established by Congress in 1830, which is when the trail's history began. 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What Is The Biggest National Park In Illinois? Although, the measurement of national park Illinois cannot be given, in terms of state parks the biggest one which covers almost 8000 acres in Pere Marquette State Park. These are some of the best national parks in Illinois. However, if Illinois is not your last stop and national parks aren’t the only trails you are looking for, then here is a list of other state parks or national parks in the driveaway neighbourhood that you can explore. In just a three hour drive, you can reach Mark Twain National park in the neighbouring state of Missouri. You can Visit Chicago and dive into the city life for a little while.  Again in just a three hour ride, you can visit Indiana Dunes National Parks which has some of the most desirable camping grounds. A night of wild adventures and sweet smokey smores!  Some Of The State Parks You Can Visit If you have crossed all the national parks Illinois in the list then step towards some of the state parks. With gorgeous sites and fun activities like fishing, camping, and boating filled in these trips, you won’t be disappointed.  Clinton Lake State Recreation Area  Rock Cut State Park  Fort Massac State Park  Illinois Beach State Park  Hennepin Canal State Trail  The best part is, the government charges no extra penny for you to enter these paradises.  Are Covid 19 Tests Required To Travel To National Park Illinois? If you are an unvaccinated traveler then you have to get a Covid Test for travelling to Illinois. You don’t have to get quarantined though.  Final Thoughts  With big cities of the country getting all the limelight, we are forgetting the other smaller states where lies the sublime beauties of mother nature as well as the nostalgia of American history.  So, this season let us rekindle the hidden beauties of national parks illinois that will tweek all your travel love metre again. Read Also: A Guide To National Parks In Alabama – Latest Guide A Guide To National Parks In Wisconsin – Latest Guide A Guide To National Parks In Arkansas – Latest Guide Best National Parks In Missouri That You Must Know Top 8 List Of National Parks In North Carolina – Travel Guide

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What To Do In Houston | Is Houston Worth Visiting Now | Traveling Across A Large Cosmopolitan Destination

BY  Sibashree Dec 13, 2024

Yes, Houston is worth visiting for an eclectic experience. The fourth-largest city in the USA is a cosmopolitan area. So, you can explore various cultures and cuisines in the city.  Further, the answer to what to do in Houston is extensive, including a visit to the Houston Museum of Natural Science or the Space Center of Houston.  Also, Houston is a year-round travel destination, with each season spilling a different charm. For example, February to April or September-November are the best months to visit Houston. Moderate weather conditions make these months ideal for exploring the city.  At the same time, winter, or December to February, is not freezing in Houston. The average temperature here remains between 6-17 degrees Celsius during the winter months. So, many people visit Houston in winter to beat the crowd and chill. Nevertheless, Houston stands proud of its places of attraction, irrespective of the time or season of your visit. 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World’s Legendary Locations That Will Mesmerise You

BY  Abdul Aziz Dec 22, 2021

Every traveler dreams of a World tour at least once in a lifetime and what could be better if you could visit the world’s legendary locations for free. Some unbelievable locations on earth which are hard to believe that they actually exist are reachable. We are not aware but there are plenty of breath-taking legendary locations undiscovered.  We humans mostly use terms like ‘legendary locations’, ‘mystical locations’, ‘magical locations’, 'legendary places'  when we wish to define something unreal or unbelievable or too beautiful to believe in our own eyes. Often writers have made these legendary locations a part of their story to make them more significant. We might not be even aware of what all could be such possible locations that can be legendary.   There are some beautiful existing places on earth that exist but we are not aware of those places. What could be better if you could visit these places for free? This means that there will not be any extra expenditure for visiting these legendary locations.  Also Read: Must Visit Places in New York  Top 10 Legendary Locations in the World It is very unrealistic to visit legendary locations in real but they do exist and you can visit them at least once in your lifetime.   1. Pink Lake Hillier, A Legendary Location in Australia The sight of the pink Hillier lake is just mesmerizing and it is very hard to believe that it exists. A Royal navy explorer had found out about this legendary lake which is a strawberry milkshake in color. Many must have found this legendary location in fairytale stories but nobody must have believed that it actually exists.   2. Haiku Stairs, A Legendary Location in Hawaii This legendary location is also known as a stairway to heaven which is found in Oahu in Hawaii. This is the greatest attraction on Hawaii island, whose specialty is the beauty of the location along with all possible risks. 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The road offers spectacular scenery with every twist and turn. At the top, you'll see 2,500m high mountains on both sides and Transylvania's plains in the distance - jaw-dropping landscapes you'll want to take your time to enjoy fully and take lots of pictures! If you're planning to visit Romania this legendary place should be on your list of places to see! There are many such mesmerizing legendary locations in the world that you might visit, we have listed some of them for you. Make sure you add all these places to your checklist while you visit any of these places on earth. Also Read: Never Miss These Places in Mexico