Based in Austin, Texas, Zak Zeinert is a travel and landscape photographer who loves exploring this planet with all of its beautiful sights and wonderful people. He just returned from an Instagram takeover in Ketchikan, Alaska as part of Alaska’s Weekend Wanderer series. For more Weekend Wanderer posts, make sure you’re following Alaska Airlines on Instagram.

My Aunt Dawn has been a flight attendant for a major U.S. airline for almost thirty years. About a month ago, I asked her what she considered was the best domestic airline to work for and fly with. Without missing a beat, she answered “Alaska Airlines.” Thirty-something days later, I can understand why.

Less than 24 hours after that conversation, I received an email with the subject line, “Alaska Airlines loves @ZakZeinert,” and was formally invited to travel to the state of Alaska on behalf of Alaska Airlines.

I’ve longed to visit Alaska since I was about 15 and have loved photography for even longer. When I read that email it felt as if I was dreaming. Even after arriving in Ketchikan, moments of elation would strike me as I remembered where I was and why.

I can’t speak highly enough about my experience as a #WeekendWanderer. As for Ketchikan, I’ve fallen in love with this small town. From the amazing staff at the Inn at Creek Street to the kindhearted locals I met while out shooting, every person welcomed me with open arms and after five days here I feel like a part of the community. The scenery is stunning, the trails are numerous, and there are endless places to explore.

Alaska Airlines gave me free reign to shoot what I wanted. In their own words, they told me to go have an adventure and do what I do best. They gave me the freedom to make the trip my own and I’ll always cherish the experiences I had here and the different places I was able to photograph. From kayaking across Knudson Cove desperately seeking an Orca whale encounter to watching the sun go down over historic Creek Street; Ketchikan, Alaska will forever hold a special place in my heart and I know that this will not be the last time I visit this magical place.