New Mexico as a Travel Destination-Part I

Image Source: santafe.org

When somebody mentions travelling to the southwest in the US, most think of Texas, Arizona and southern California. For some reason, many do not include New Mexico in that category. This is a shame because they are missing a state with a long history, interesting culture, great topography, and amazing food. In this first of a three part series, you will learn about the city of Santa Fe, New Mexico and why natives call it “The City Different.”

As you explore Santa Fe, you will note the many contrasts of the city. Sitting on the central plaza of the city are Native Americans selling jewelry displayed on blankets. The sellers are sitting on the ground, one right next to the other. Often, they sit in the shadows of very high end stores where you can buy custom-made, leather jackets at $5,000 each. Just down the street are galleries selling beautiful sculptures and paintings for thousands.

Image Source: theepochtimes.com

Wandering these shops and the square, you will encounter panhandlers, as well as tourists. Interspersed, you will see people who look like they have no money, but could easily be millionaires in their own right. If you move past the square and onto Canyon Road, you will find dozens of high end art galleries spaced almost on top of one another. It is an area that draws tourists from around the country. During your walk, you can eat at nationally-ranked restaurants or at tiny holes-in-the-wall.

Within a few blocks of the square, you can tour the Georgia O’Keefe museum and several other art and historical museums.

Image Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Georgia_O'Keeffe_Museum

Santa Fe is the City Different because of its history and mix of cultures. Native Americans have inhabited the area for 10,000 years. About 400 years ago, the Spanish visited to look for gold and many stayed. About 150 years later, Anglos settled in the area. This mix of cultures bred a tolerance for differences and a love of the cuisines that resulted.

Part II of this series will explore Albuquerque.

Louis Habash writes about travel as a freelancer. He lives in Los Angeles. A lover of photography, hiking, water sports and nature, Louis Habash is able to combine these interests while travelling.