Top 10 things fort living and Southeast Alaska living have in common

1. Luggage is similar ... lots of hauling around lots of stuff in plastic tubs, grocery store bags, garbage bags, etc.
2. Remoteness. Reaching either location is possible only by boat or plane ... only Dry Tortugas sea planes just went out of business so now it's ferry access only. (Lots of Dramamine for me!)
3. Travel is extremely weather dependent. (Alaska is usually related to fog, winds and visibility; Dry Tortugas is all about wind, wind, wind.)
4. Logistics, logistics, logistics. Access to anything is a long way away so you better a) be prepared, b) be stocked up on everything and then some and c) have creative problem solving skills.
5. Technology is challenging. Satellite internet service in both places is heavily affected by atmospheric conditions (wind, rain, etc.) so don't bank on having access. Phone service is spotty at best but usually better in Alaska (although you could lose service for no apparent reason and without warning for days on end at times).
   
6. Traveling is time intensive so be prepared. Bring food. Bring reading material. And more of both than you think you could possibly need. And maybe a sleeping bag and pillow.
7. Fishing is good and is a mainstay of our diet.
8. Weather is consistent. (Alaska has rain and clouds; Dry Tortugas has wind, wind, wind and sun.)
9. Black and white birds are everywhere. (Alaska has magnificent bald eagles; Dry Tortugas has buzzards.)
10. Interesting people from all walks of life are doing all sorts of interesting things.