Travel to Santa Fe

Travel to Santa Fe

Located in the northern part of New Mexico, this historic outpost is the most unique and charming city in the state, if not the entire southwestern United States. With a history stretching back nearly 400 years, up to the arrival of the Spanish explorers, the town creates its own ambience, which simply must be experienced to be fully understood. Theres a reason why Santa Fe is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, and once you visit, youll find it hard to leave.

Transportation to Santa Fe

Although Santa Fe is the largest city in northern New Mexico, its airport only services a very limited number of short-haul domestic flights. Most travellers fly into Albuquerque International Sunport, which is located about 1 hour 30 minutes drive south of Santa Fe, and then take one of the convenient shuttle vans to the city. Alternatively, you can take the Amtrak train, whose Southwest Chief line stops in Lamy, just a short distance from Santa Fe. Greyhound buses also regularly arrive in the city from virtually every town in America.

If you are driving, Santa Fe lies directly off I-25, a major interstate highway that runs north-south, passing through Albuquerque, where you can catch the massive I-40, which runs from east to west across the country. There are several other scenic roads that lead to Santa Fe, if you have a bit more time. Pubic transportation is rather limited in this town. Santa Fe Trails operates seven routes that can take you to most parts of town, but a car is essential if you want to do any real exploration.

What to see

The biggest attraction in Santa Fe is the city itself. Made entirely of adobe-styled buildings, some of which date back to the 1600s, the city creates its own unique atmosphere which is not replicated anywhere else in the country. Most visitors will spend their time around the Plaza, which is Santa Fes central square and home to virtually all the decent art galleries, shops, restaurants and bars. Its also in this walking district where you can find the citys amazing cultural museums, which focus on the citys distinctive Anglo-Hispanic and Native American heritage.

The New Mexican cuisine here is out of this world, and cannot be found anywhere else with the same depth of authenticity. Nearly everything worth seeing can be found within walking distance of the Plaza, so try and stay in a hotel or bed and breakfast in this area. Prepare to eat well, shop to your hearts delight and be overwhelmed by the unmistakable charm that is Santa Fe.

Daytrips

Northern New Mexico is one of the most beautiful parts of America for a number of reasons. The vast skies and rolling mountains stand in stark contrast to the high desert scenery, where ancient Native American pueblos still exist. Famous spots such as Taos, Chimayo and the Jemez Mountains are all within a couple hours drive. And just behind the city itself rise the majestic Sangre de Cristos mountains, where you can ski in the winter and hike in the summer. The roads are excellent and the scenery borders on the sublime; but youll need a car to really experience it in depth.

Activities and leisure

Unless you consider shopping a sport, there really isnt much to do in Santa Fe except wander around and soak in the atmosphere. Luckily, within a few minutes drive of the city centre lies the winding road that leads up to the Sangre de Cristos mountain range. Here, you can hike miles of forested trails, mountain bike or just enjoy a picnic in the cool alpine environment. During the winter, the mountain turns into a ski resort, with a decent assortment of trails on offer for all levels.

Safety issues

Santa Fe isnt necessarily a dangerous place to visit, but there is a certain element of crime due to the vast chasm between its residents economic status. Be particularly careful after dark, when walking around the Plaza district can be risky, and always keep your valuables, cash and cameras close at hand.