When we travel, we are
seeking to experience something new, something different. There are many ways
to describe the affect travel can have on a person. Travel transforms, it
creates life long memories, which make your life richer than was before. Travel
transcends, it creates opportunities for different cultures and people to meet,
gather and share. Travel expands, horizons, viewpoints, and mindsets. You
needn’t journey to the far ends of the earth to experience travel which will
change your life for the better. Unique destinations worth exploring range all
across North America too. One place brings together a variety of cultures,
history and natural beauty like no other, New Mexico, the Land of Enchantment.
New Mexico has a long and
varied history, with strong cultural traditions from Native American, Spanish
and Mexican communities, which are still thriving in amazing ways. The drier,
mild climate of the region makes this an ideal location for anyone seeking the
sun’s warmth during the winter. Many big festivals and events occur beginning
in the fall, on into the cooler months as well. Deep canyons and high mountains
traversed by rivers provide excellent river rafting escapes and recreational
adventures throughout the spring and summer.
The major cities of the
state, Albuquerque and Santa Fe are world-renown for their heritage museums and
art galleries, award winning restaurants and golf clubs, and rejuvenating spa
resorts. But if you want to experience the real New Mexico, the enchanted land
which residents and visitors alike have come to love, you need to step off the
paved road as you travel.
Several communities
around the state offer a truly rare and unique opportunity to experience a
piece of “living history”. While the Spanish brought their Roman Catholic influences
to the region, one aspect has shifted to become an ongoing, annual practice
embraced by Native American Tribes. PuebloFeast Days celebrate native ancestral traditions. Originally established to
commemorate and honor Catholic Saints, in New Mexico, feast days are occasions
for tribes to come together as a community, connecting with their culture,
religion and ancestral languages. These tribes have managed to hold onto their
traditions, and they are open to sharing them with visitors, a life-changing event
to be sure.
These feast days occur throughout
the year and are open to the public. Each one includes ceremonial dances, songs
and storytelling, alongside traditional foods. Many family Pueblos are opened
to welcome visitors and share in their celebrations. There are special etiquette
guidelines to follow, showing proper respect for these amazing people who
continue to strive to keep their culture alive. VisitAlbuquerque offers a detailed resource to educate visitors prior to attending.
Another amazing cultural experience
not to be missed in New Mexico is Dia de los Muertos, or the Day of the
Dead. This is another Roman Catholic
carryover from Spanish influences, in part. You may know how significant this
festival is in Mexico, where communities everywhere gather at family gravesites
to feast with their deceased loved ones. In New Mexico its import is just as
big. There are towns and cities across the state which celebrate this annual remembrance
of ancestors, an integral aspect to many cultures worldwide.
You will find parades,
carnival festivities, community and family altars, dances and more. The
official date of Dia de los Muertos is November 2nd, a date which can be traced
back to the Catholic Church of the 11
th Century. The traditions of
honoring the dead in the Americas however, are much older. Many aspects of
these celebrations date back to the Aztecs. Over time the influence of the
Catholic Church increased across Mexico and the South West, leading to what is
now a three-day celebration of ancestors and loved ones, beginning with All
Hallows Eve (Hallowe’en) on October 31
st and ending with Dia de los
Muertos on November 2
nd.
New Mexico is not called “The
Enchanted Land” without reason. Serenity is easily achieved when you explore
the natural side of this state. Filled with breathtaking wonders, if you enjoy
outdoor recreation, soft or high adventure, or are just seeking a new way to
connect with Mother Nature, a trip to New Mexico is a must. Red River in Taos
County offers an excellent getaway to the mountains where you can explore
rugged vistas in an off-road jeep, camera and sunscreen are advised. The La Luz
Trail takes hikers from base to peak at the north end of the Sandias Mountains.
It is said to be an athlete’s paradise for training; the ever-changing scenery
and panoramic views will awe and inspire.
For a unique stay in the
wilds of New Mexico, with the comforts of home, check out the KokopelliCave Bed & Breakfast. Yes, it really is in a cave, on a cliff-side,
where nature is right out your window, and the past comes alive in a grotto of
stone thought to be 70 million years old. Another special place in New Mexico is
best seen by moonlight. Hike or bike under the bright full moon as you explore
the White Sands National Monument on a special Park RangerProgram tour. The stunning white gypsum sand dunes will glow under the
light of the full moon, offering an ideal time to view the wildlife of the
region in a exceptional way, a memorable experience to be sure.
Anyone who loves a
photographic spectacle, or festive atmosphere, should plan to attend the Albuquerque InternationalBalloon Fiesta. Each year in early October hundreds of hot air balloons
fill the expansive sky with thousands of spectators experiencing a site not to
be missed. The best time to witness this festival of balloons is at dawn. For 8
days, each rising of the sun sees a mass ascension of colorful hot air balloons
as they lift off.
This has become one of
the most exciting aviation festivals in the world. It is the very location
which has allowed for this festival to literally take off. Balloon Fiesta Park
has what is known locally as the Albuquerque Box. This is where October weather
patterns coupled with the geography of the park,
provides an ideal place for
hot air ballooners to navigate their inflatable rides.
There are many ways to
experience the Balloon Fiesta. C.P. Trips is excited to offer a special Classy
Ladies (& Couples Too!) journey incorporating the Albuquerque International
Balloon Fiesta. Not only will we be exhilarated by the experience of this
visual wonder, we will also enjoy culinary delights Santa Fe style, be immersed
in the cultural heritage and art of the region, and connect with our past on
the Turquoise Trail, Route 66 and the Santa Fe Trail.
To find out more about
this exciting, hosted itinerary, or any of the exciting experience to be found in New Mexico, contact me, Cindy Passannante, at cptrips@aol.com or by phone, 503-658-5646. Details including air fare, package rates, and excursion
options will soon be posted on our Classy Ladies
(& Couples Too!) web page as well. No matter how or when you are ready to experience the Enchanted Land
of New Mexico, the agents of C.P. Trips are here to help you plan a vacation
full of transformative memories. Enjoy a worry-free journey with the support
and care of a local Travel Professional. Call or email us today!
