Little Diomede Island, Island near Bering Strait, Alaska
Little Diomede Island is a rocky outcrop in the Bering Sea between Alaska and Siberia, belonging to the Nome Census Area. Granite cliffs form the coastline, while a small settlement of about 80 people clings to the southwest slope.
Vitus Bering reached the island in 1728 during his voyage through the strait later named after him and gave it the name after Saint Diomedes. Russian and American territories were divided here in 1867 when Alaska was sold to the United States.
Residents speak Iñupiaq and use the place as a base for seal hunting in winter when sea ice forms a bridge to the mainland. Dried meat and handmade tools remain part of daily life in the houses built on the slope.
Helicopters provide the only reliable connection, as landing strips are absent and boats can only approach in calm weather. Visitors should bring warm clothing and expect simple lodging with locals, as there are no hotels.
The date line runs between this place and its Russian neighbor Big Diomede, so you can see tomorrow from here. On clear days you can spot Russian buildings on the sister island just a few kilometers away.
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