New Years Resolution No. 2

Last year, I wrote about why people from the US should visit Switzerland instead of only traveling to France or Italy. My blog must have been a success because the Swiss Tourism office sent me a six-figure check … is it only my fantasy?

This time, I am trying to convince my Swiss family and friends, as well as our friends outside New Mexico who were never here, to explore the Land of Enchantment.

New Mexico is not a country; it is a state. It is the 47th State and the 5th largest State in the union. NM is actually 7 1/2 times bigger in area than Switzerland, but it has only a quarter of the Swiss population.

Why should you come to Santa Fe and New Mexico? 

You would visit to experience its unique blend of cultures, stunning natural landscapes, including deserts and mountains, rich history from both Native American and Spanish influences, vibrant art scene, particularly in Santa Fe, opportunities for outdoor activities, and the chance to explore iconic landmarks like Taos Pueblo and Petroglyph National Monument; essentially, to immerse yourself in the “Land of Enchantment” (Land Der Verzauberung) as it’s often called. On top of that, you get 325 sunny days per year.

We have 4 seasons. Santa Fe is 7,200 feet (2195m) above sea level. 

If you want to visit in WINTER TIME, a great ski mountain is just 30 minutes away from Santa Fe. Typically, the ski season opens at Thanksgiving and ends 1st week in April. Last Winter, we had 270″ (686cm) of snow. The top of the mountain is 12,075ft (3.680m).

If you want to ski steep chutes, a two-hour drive will take you to Taos Ski Valley. It is one of the most challenging ski resorts in North America. Katchina Peak at an altitude of 12,481ft (3805m)

Too cold in Winter? Choose SPRING. We have beautiful flowers and cactuses blooming. It is not the lush green you find at home, but plenty of green, and the Farmers Market shows the season vegetables and fruits.

No? What about SUMMER? The days are warm, and we have a few hot days. However, you don’t feel uncomfortable because of the very low humidity and high altitude, and the temperature drops at night. Last summer, we installed a split unit in the bedroom, and we had it on for two nights.

Do you love opera? With Santa Fe Opera’s unique history and location, you can experience top-class operas under a roof but with an open house. Sunsets are often part of the scenery as the back of the stage is open. At the bottom of this blog is attached a short 5-minute movie about the opera. Cindy has been an usher since we arrived in 2020, and she might show you your seats when you come for a performance.

What about FALL? We have great weather, and the changes in color are beautiful. The aspen trees, in particular, are magnificent when they turn golden. If you like hiking, there is a little teaser video at the end.

We have countless events throughout the year, such as Native American traditional festivals, book readings, galleries, and cooking classes just to mention a few.

Did I trigger your interest? It would be a pleasure to show you around, or would you prefer to explore it on your own? Have Santa Fe as a base.

Isn’t that your best New Year’s Resolution in a long time?

Here is a 5-minute video showing the history of the opera.

Hiking around Santa Fe

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