Cheechako and Sourdough

When you come to visit Alaska, don't be surprised to hear the terms "Cheechako" or "Sourdough". Currently I'm a Cheechako -- a person who claims to live in Alaska, but hasn't lived here for a winter yet.

Conversely a Sourdough is someone who has lived in Alaska for at least one winter, and more typically has lived here for many winters.

If you come up to Alaska for a vacation and take a tour of some sort -- dog sled ride, boat tour, etc. -- you'll probably hear these terms. Don't be offended, one day you too may be a Cheechako, or even a Sourdough. :)