In Whittier, Alaska, hundreds of its residents share one 14-storey building block that has a post office, grocery store, church and laundromat.
Bizarrely, children living at the Begich Towers can walk through a tunnel in the basement directly to school.
One self-proclaimed resident of the former army barracks has taken to TikTok to share her experience living in Begich Towers.
« You never really have to leave the building if you don’t want to, » resident Jenessa said.
Living quarters are said to range from studios to three-bedroom apartments but are « very outdated ».
Jenessa shared on her TikTok channel: « A lot of people who do live here renovate their apartments. »
And there’s mention of another residential building nearby, but it’s « much smaller » than Begich Towers.
« It was definitely weird growing up in an apartment block where you know everyone, » Jenessa admitted. « Everyone in there is almost the entire town. »
The « community-based » living resulted in « nice » moments but also « town drama » full of « gossip ».
According to Lonely Planet, Begich Towers was built in 1956 to temporarily house military personnel.
By 1960, the building had become abandoned, and in 1972, the City of Whittier purchased Begich Tower.
As many people left the small town, there are said to only be around 272 people who now live there, but what makes them stay?
What can you do in Whittier, Alaska?
Whittier is best for outdoorsy types. Its main attractions include kayaking, camping, fishing, and hiking.
Additional entertainment options, which may appeal to visitors, include a glacier cruise, berry picking, picnicking, and a walking tour.
Described as « breathtakingly beautiful » by the City of Whittier local government, the port city has gained attention because of Begich Towers.
Now, travellers have descended upon the small town to see if the majority of its residents really do live in one small apartment block – and they do.
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