Do you know the way to Santa Fe? Well the answer is through Albuquerque, New Mexico. After watching the movie “Wild Hogs” which was filmed in the Santa Fe area, we knew where the next trip would be. Made reservations on “The Company Plane”, and found that we had to fly to Albuquerque, rent a car and drive to Santa Fe. Nothing against Albuquerque (ok, weird name) but I was not knowledgeable about the town with the exception of the Annual Balloon Fiesta. Boy was I to be pleasantly surprised! Finding a hotel was easy after going online and bidding on a 4-Star room which was found for only $29.00 a/night. The travel gods were on our side.
Albuquerque’s airport is clean, quaint and easily navigable. We found the shuttle to the rental car center (car found on the bid for price site) and in 5 minutes were able to acquire our car (upgraded by asking) and progress to the hotel. An error in map reading led me to a 10 minute drive which should have taken 1 minute as the hotel was across the street from the rental car center and airport. We checked-in and asked for some food recommendations (remember, eating at the hotel is for losers).This “ask” led us to one of the finest, tastiest Mexican restaurants that I have ever visited “Sadies”. This long established eatery has served hundreds of thousands for many years. The chip sauce is one of the best ever! You can even buy some online if you choose not to carry on board (I did)! After a night’s rest we began our drive the back way to Santa Fe along the Silver highway which is scenic and historical. This route is the one that is shown on the film and takes you through the town of Madras which is where the movie has its climactic fight scenes. Besides the closed restaurant and a few arts and crafts stores there was not much to do but drive through.
Santa Fe beckoned our spirits but more food was the call of our stomachs. After a brief stop for breakfast we sauntered into the city centre for a look-see. As a fan of the southwest adobe style and of minimalism, I was impressed by my first impressions. I enjoyed the sightlines (no tall buildings), easy to navigate circular traffic flow, walk-ability and the warmness from the people whom I asked for directions and suggestions. In a quick minute, we were able to walk the city square’s shops, restaurants and even haggle for a good price for the silver and turquoise sold by the native Indian concessionaires. Food is plentiful but pricy in the city square area. You can still find a few good meal bargains. Before we departed for the area, I searched the web for travel food finds and with list in hand, navigated to find even better (cheaper) alternatives than presented from those food shows. Trust me when I say $40 a/day is about right for the area but on a few days we did it on $20 a/day for two people!
The Posada Hotel is a special property. Normally very expensive (won on web bid-site 75% discounted). It is a 5-star property which is highly recommended because of its amenities and location. If you have the opportunity to visit Santa Fe look into The Posada Hotel.
Santa Fe is a city for art lovers. You can stroll endlessly through the arts district for hours. It is not uncommon to hear art deals being consummated in earshot. Whatever your media interest belies, there is a fix by the sheer volume of quality art and artists that reside in the area. Another street, another gallery! Leave your credit cards home or I promise you will assist the Santa Fe economy!
The high altitude took some adjusting for me (so I thought). For the four days of my visit I was uncomfortable. I was informed that my problem was not the altitude but the high concentration of a certain weed was the cause of my uncomfortability. Having never had allergens, this was the most uncomfortable feeling that I’ve ever experienced.
Santa Fe is a unique town. It is not like the cookie-cutter cities of today. It has an enveloping charm which draws the numerous tourists to the great food, historical significance and laid back southwestern chic. I challenge you to visit, you might just want to call it home.
Great Travels!
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