I've lived in Alaska for 21 years. Here are 10 things tourists should know before visiting.

• I moved to Alaska 21 years ago and there are things tourists should know.

• Understand the histories and traditions of Alaska Natives.

• Make sure to wear the right clothes when you are outside.

In 2001, my husband and I traveled across the country in our cars.

We lived in the capital city of Juneau for seven years before moving to Anchorage.

I have learned a lot about this place over the past 21 years. I think visitors should know 10 things.

You are a guest on Alaska Native lands

It is important to remember that we are all guests in the homeland of the Alaska Natives, who called Alaska home before colonizers arrived.

Someone who was born and raised in Alaska, even if they can trace their ancestors back several generations, is not an Alaska Native.

There are 229 state and federally recognized tribes in Alaska, and their histories, traditions, and people deserve our respect.

One of the best ways to show respect is to visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage, which has permanent collections, life-size replicas of village sites, and educational programs.

Keep your hands off of the wildlife

In Alaska, moose, bears, and eagles are common neighbors. It is normal for a large bull moose to stop traffic or for people to find evidence that a bear has shot through their trash.

Seeing these magnificent animals in their natural habitat is a big reason people travel here, but for the safety of yourself and the animals, admire them from a distance.

Humans and wildlife can be killed by animal attacks.

There are many safe options for viewing wildlife. You can visit the Alaska SeaLife Center in Seward, the Alaska Zoo, the Musk ox farms in Palmer, and the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.

Step aside while you snap pictures 

While you are in Alaska, you will want to take pictures, but don't overload the streets.

Remember that people are also trying to get to work, school, or hockey practice when you take a picture of the whales swimming through Turnagain Arm.

If there are more than five cars behind you on the highway, stay on the sidewalk and use the pullouts.

The glaciers are absolutely worth checking out

Alaska has the most glaciers of any US state. You can hike along or kayak past some, enjoy a dog-sled ride atop others, or get a bird's eye view of the ice fields with a helicopter tour.

One of the best ways to view them is on a small boat cruise through Prince William Sound.

The cruises give up- close views and narration by a park service Ranger. If you listen closely, you may be able to hear a glacier calving.

Although there is no official guarantee that you will see wildlife, it is rare that you won't see at least one harbor seal, otter, or Dall's porpoise swimming in the icy waters.

Make sure to bring plenty of layers and protection for outdoor endeavors

Alaskan weather is unpredictable. In a single day, you can enjoy winter, spring, summer, and fall.

Before you head out, check the forecast. Since that doesn't dry as quickly, you can stay warm and dry with a fleece and waterproof jacket.

If you want to go hiking through the woods, choose waterproof boots to keep your feet dry and protected.

Bring a bell or whistle if you are going into the woods. Just make sure you know how to use it, and a can of bear spray won't hurt either.

If you run into trouble, make sure someone knows your itinerary.

It's important to know your limits and not push them

Even the most experienced explorers can get into trouble in Alaska.

There is no shame in knowing your limits and taking it easy.

Flattop is one of the city's most popular destinations and the views along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail are just as spectacular.

Don't forget that Alaskans are still Americans

Unless you live in the continental US, don't ask us if we can exchange your money, speak English or send postcards via airmail.

Some Alaskans are independent, but we are still Americans.

There's more for dinner than just seafood

There is no shortage of places that serve seafood right.

Alaska's cuisine is more than just seafood. Chefs around the state show fresh Alaskan ingredients, from vegetables to pork.

The steaks that can rival the fanciest steakhouse down south can be found here.

The food-truck scene has many options. Outside of local breweries, distilleries, and cider houses, there are weekly carnivals and weekend markets where you can find everything from Guatemalan-American fusion and crepes to reindeer dogs and Mexican food.

Driving can be slow, so give yourself extra time

Driving times in Alaska are often longer in the summer because of construction.

An accident or rock slide can add up to hours to your trip, because many roads are only two lanes. Make sure you have a good cushion in your drive times to deal with delays.

Don't try to explore all of Alaska in a week

It's almost two and a half times the size of Texas and it's not possible to see it all in a single week.

If you want to visit a single region or small area, focus on it. The more time you spend in the car, the more you have to do.

The original article can be found on Insider.