New Mexico - Highlights

Some of my favorite places are Santa Fe, Albuquerque, and Taos at any time of year. I particularly like December in Santa Fe, when they have all the buildings lit up with lights in paper bags, sand in the bottom, then a small votive candle called liminarias. Magic in the air.

The Gathering of Nations, North America 's largest pow wow usually held in the spring in Albuquerque and fun to attend. Santa Fe Symphony orchestra is wonderful to attend one of their concerts, also in the spring.

Every other Friday, Dine' weavers (Navajo name for The People) assemble in the Crownpoint elementary school gymnasium to mingle with bidders from all over the world. At 7.p.m. traditional Navajo rugs are walked on stage for easy viewing by hopeful buyers. In January 2020, 300 rugs per night were sold. You can buy an authentic Navajo rug at a significant discount from traditional prices, right from the hands that made it. Due to the Covid pandemic, the auction has been on hiatus, so check on www.crownpointrugauction.com to confirm next year's date. I sat between a chap from New Zealand, and one from China. A fun experience. This town of 2,500 is the gateway to Chaco Culture National Historic Park which draws thousands of visitors each year.

In the Spring, another fun event is the Southwest Chocolate and Coffee Festival, held in the State Fair Grounds, Albuquerque when you can sample and shops from 150 vendors.

This is where the wildflowers grow. A walk along the Winsor national Recreation Trail can elevate your understanding of how and why plant and floral life changes.

I love the food, the scenery, and there are lots of great restaurants and hotels for you to choose from.

Maureen Jones

All Horizons Travel

650-961-2340 direct