New Mexico

Known as the ‘land of enchantment,’ you can’t leave this place and help but feel like you’ve been enchanted!

General Information:

Sandia Peak - Albuquerque

The landscape is intriguing and diverse, with its snow-capped mountains, monumental gorges, barren deserts, and sprawling cities. There’s definitely something to do for any type of outdoors enthusiast, from fishing to skiing to rock climbing to soaking. Don’t be deceived by its location in the states, however. One might be under the impression that it boasts a hot, dry temperature in the winter time, but it’s actually quite cool. I visited in late November and it was surprisingly very on par with the weather back home…in Ontario, Canada. BUT, you will get sun. And it’s strong, with a high UV index. After all, you’re an average of 7000 feet above sea level, so it’s important to remember a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

I flew into the Albuquerque International Airport, now renamed since 1994, the Albuquerque International Sunport. Why? Because they literally experience so many days of sun in a year! The airport was a medium size, not too overwhelming, and decked out with coral-coloured walls and fixtures, complimented by turquoise (to give honour to the natural elements and conditions found in New Mexico).

I stayed at the SpringHill Suites by Marriott Albuquerque University Area. Although the location is not in Old Town, which is probably where a first time tourist might want to stay, I found this hotel to be perfect for my needs. It was located right next to the main highway, I25, and everything seemed very easy to get to in my rental car. The hotel was new, clean, and modern. The rooms were spacious and had convenient amenities, as well the hotel offered free parking and a free breakfast.

The people in New Mexico were by far some of the friendliest I’ve ever encountered. Many take on a care-free laissez-faire approach to life and I have to say, it’s very refreshing! I found the service to be top notch wherever I went, and many took great pride in providing outstanding service. English is the main language spoken, but of course being so close to the Mexican border, Spanish is also very prominent.

The driving was very easy. Even in the main city centres where traffic might be more congested and one-way streets can occur, I found I was not stressed at all. There was never any heavy traffic, as everything is so spread out. People are very patient if you make a wrong move and parking is fairly easy to find in the downtown areas.

Casinos are abundant all over New Mexico and are usually Native run. I visited two big casinos on my visit, the Buffalo Thunder Resort Casino in Santa Fe and the Isleta Resort and Casino in Albuquerque. Let me tell you, I have never seen such clean and nicely presented casinos in my life! Of course, they took all my money, but you’re definitely not wanting for choice of slot machines, tables, private rooms, and even dining.

If you’re an art lover, look no further! I could not get over how much art there was and such a huge artists community presence. You can find anything from paintings, to sculptures, to pottery, to quilt work, and beyond all over the state. There is a very large presence and influence of Native American Peoples in the state and their artwork is one-of-a-kind, unique and beautiful. I thoroughly enjoyed the explanation of how some of their art techniques date back thousands of years, and they still use it today. The state holds many events throughout the year showcasing artists and their talents. You can find more information here New Mexico Events.

Upon arrival in Santa Fe, I stayed at the Inn of the Governors. The location could not be more perfect, and for the price, it’s definitely the best value. This older hotel has a motel feel but with more hotel-like amenities. They offer free parking, free breakfast (which is amazing) and a down to earth authentic New Mexican decor style. In the lobby and restaurant, the heat is still provided by traditional wood burning chiminea, which is maintained every so often by the addition of another log placed by the staff on shift. The smell of the wood burning and the heat emanating from it as you dine is what made me love this place so much. At the Inn, you are within walking distance of the Santa Fe Plaza, which is lined with shops and restaurants.

The food is to die for. Of course it has a heavy influence of Mexican cuisine, but has an American twist on it, to create that distinct New Mexican palette. A couple of notable (and totally on the opposite ends of the spectrum) restaurants are:

Ten 3 in Albuquerque - this fine dining restaurant sits 10,000 feet above sea level on top of the Sandia Mountain Peak. Here, I had the best steak of my life, served with delicious wine, an amazing atmosphere, and the best attention to detail.

Ricky’s in Taos - this hole in the wall restaurant barely fits 7 tables and you wonder if you might walk away with food poisoning. Here, I had the best burrito and sopapilla of my life, with the largest portion I’ve ever seen, served by the friendliest staff.

Notable Attractions:

Hot Air Ballooning - Albuquerque

Albuquerque:

Hot Air Ballooning over the desert. You can choose a sunrise or sunset tour. I went with Rainbow Ryders.

Look out over the city at Sandia Peak, accessible only by aerial tramway. I went near sunset and had dinner at the top.

Santa Fe:

Visit the multiple and beautiful art galleries on Canyon Road. Pack your wallet.

Set some time aside for Meow Wolf, a truly unique exhibit that can’t be put into words.

Relax at one of many award winning spas, like Ojo Spa Santa Fe.

Rio Grand Gorge Bridge - Taos

Taos:

Take a moment to soak in the beauty of the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge and surrounding landscape.

Visit the Taos Pueblo, the oldest continually inhabited settlement in North America. Be welcomed into the Native Peoples homes to experience their rich culture.

Truth or Consequences:

Relax in one of the many natural hot springs and wash your worries and stresses away.

Other hotels visited:

El Pueblo Lodge in Taos

Blackstone Hotsprings in Truth or Consequences

If you want to know more, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me!