Balloon Fiesta/New Mexico’s Land of Enchantment

Destination: Taos, Sante Fe, Albuquerque, New Mexico, United States

"Day 1: Albuquerque, NM
Upon arrival in Albuquerque, we’ll visit the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, which tells the story of New Mexico’s Pueblo Indian culture through exhibits and live demonstrations. Late this afternoon we’ll check in for a two-night stay at the ideally-located ClubHouse Inn & Suites. After our trip orientation ??et-together,??we’ll enjoy a Southwestern "welcome" dinner. (Dinner)

Day 2: Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
We’ll get up early for this morning’s "Mass Ascension" at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta to experience the spectacle of hundreds of colorful hot air balloons, including special shapes, moving silently through clear blue New Mexico skies, plus arts, crafts, and food along the Midway. Next, our guided city tour includes such sights as San Felipe de Neri Church, Old Town Plaza, Rio Grande Park, the University of New Mexico, the Ernie Pyle Home and residential areas. Tonight we’ll attend the "Balloon Glow," where hundreds of illuminated balloons "light up" against the New Mexico night skyline. (Breakfast)

Day 3: Santa Fe, NM
First is a ride on the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway, affording thrilling panoramic views. Next is Santa Fe, the oldest seat of government in the United States. Famous for its mix of Spanish and Indian cultures, Santa Fe is filled with buildings of distinctive design, adobe houses, and extensive shopping. Our afternoon guided tour of this historic city features such sights as the Mission of San Miguel, the historic Plaza, New Mexico’s State Capitol, St. Francis of Assisi Cathedral, and the Georgia O??eefe Museum. We’ll spend two nights here at the Sage Inn, and dine this evening at the Blue Corn Caf?. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Day 4: Santa Fe, NM
Today we??l have time to discover the great Santa Fe museums??he Palace of the Governors, the Museum of International Folk Art, plus the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture. You??l also have ample time to browse in the extensive array of downtown shops and galleries near our hotel. (Continental Breakfast, Dinner)

Day 5: Taos, NM
We follow the "High Road" to Taos through the ancient villages of Chimayo, Cordova, Truchas, and Las Trampas...here are beautiful old Spanish chapels and the shops of master craftsmen, including woodcarvers and weavers. The influence of both Spanish and Native American cultures are also felt in Taos, where art galleries, shops and studios surround the town plaza. This afternoon we’ll visit the Millicent Rogers Museum and age-old Taos Pueblo, home to over 1,000 Taos Indians. We’ll be guests for two nights at the Best Western Kachina Lodge, and dine this evening at Ogelvie’s Plaza Restaurant. (Continental Breakfast, Dinner)

Day 6: Taos, NM
This morning we??l board the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad for an extraordinary full-day trip between Antonito, Colorado, and Chama, New Mexico. Our trip on this old narrow-gauge, steam-powered train features breathtaking views of spectacular mountain scenery, plus the Phantom Curve, Toltec Gorge and lunch mid-day. Returning to Taos, our ??arewell??evening features dinner and an exhibition of traditional Native American dances. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 7: Albuquerque, NM
After breakfast, we??l return to the Albuquerque airport for our flights home (not included). (Breakfast)
"

Contact Info.:
Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada

Phone: 1.902.423.6242
2631 King Street
Halifax, NS B3K 4T7
Canada