Anchorage getaway: close to the city, but still a relaxing luxury getaway.

• Author: Ellis-Knapp, Jody
• Position: EXECUTIVE GETAWAY - Bed and breakfasts

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Twenty years ago, Rita Gittens was in the midst of a major dilemma. She was about to have three children in college, the economy was in a slide and she needed a way to generate an income to get her kids through school. While at a dinner party, she happened to talk to a guest who had recently opened a bed and breakfast. Inspired, she investigated her options and soon found a reservation service she could work with.

"This was before cell phones, e-mail or computers," Gittens says. "I had to rely on word-of-mouth advertising and a reservation service." Apparently, that word-of-mouth advertising worked just fine, as Alaska Frontier Gardens is now one of the premiere bed and breakfasts (B&B) in the Anchorage Bowl.

Gittens made her way to Alaska as many long-time residents have done--by chance. "I got married on July 11, 1964, and we drove to Alaska for our honeymoon. We fell in love and when we were supposed to return, we telegrammed our employers with our resignations and called our families to send our winter clothes!"

The B&B is conveniently located in Anchorage's Hillside area, less than a mile from Chugach State Park and offers a peaceful and quiet escape while being close to all the amenities of the city. A cedar home quietly nestled amidst pine trees, alpine flowers and many hanging flower baskets, it presents exceptional comfort and what Gittens refers to as a "museum-like atmosphere." There are four rooms to choose from, all with different themes and all having a wonderful personal touch. Says Gittens, "The Ivory Suite is especially lovely. It has a double-glass shower, a king-size bed, fireplace and a multi-person Jacuzzi."

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Other rooms include the Garden Terrace Suite, which has a double Jacuzzi, king-size bed, fireplace, refrigerator and a view of Gittens' award-winning terraced...