by Diana Andrews

Santa Fe. I could say, ‘been there, done that’ but I really feel like I’ve only barely been there. In the short time I had, I visited the famed Indian market that lines the town’s plaza and visited a few shops. I left feeling like I had to come back in order to cement the feeling that I had ‘done that.’ What I learned from my one and only trip to Santa Fe is that a few hours is nowhere near enough time to experience this cultural center and its surrounding areas.

There is so much to see and do in Santa Fe!

• Marvel at the unique architecture
• Experience the vibrancy in their performing arts
• Taste the ethnic flavors emanating from the delectable food being prepared in local homes and eateries
• Learn the history that consumes years in making Santa Fe the “Oldest Capital in the United States”
• Immerse oneself in the culture of the people who make this wonderland their home by visiting the area’s eight northern Indian pueblos
• Explore outdoor activities year round with plenty to do in any season

Whether it’s the excitement of a fresh powder day or rejuvenation from a busy work life that you’re looking for, Santa Fe will have something to offer.

Whether it’s a weekend, a week, a month or even longer that you’re planning to stay, you’ll find all the comforts of home in a Santa Fe vacation rental. You’ll find the size to fit your needs in an area that makes your to-do list obtainable in the time that you have. One thing you won’t find is a reason to never return. Actually, you’ll probably have difficulty in finding a reason to leave!

So, stay as long as you can. See and do whatever interests you. Plan to return, because one thing is for sure. One visit to Santa Fe isn’t enough to warrant the adage, ‘been there, done that.’

Downtown Santa Fe, New Mexico, is one of those magical places where time seems to stand still. No one’s in a hurry, everyone has a smile on their face and there’s something unique around ever corner. Stroll the historic downtown area to enjoy an eclectic array of galleries and eateries mixed with Spanish colonial-era heritage and native culture.

If you don’t know where to start, here are a few suggestions:

WHERE TO STAY – Your first order of business is finding a place to stay. Try El Farolito at 514 Galisteo Street. This award-winning, downtown Santa Fe Bed and Breakfast will charm and delight you with it’s authentically-furnished adobe casitas with private entrances and patios tucked into a quiet corner of the historic area. Call Walt Wyss at(505) 988-1631 to make your reservations. This is an unforgettable place for a honeymoon.

INFORMATION – Start at the Santa Fe Visitors Center in the Lamy Building at the corner of Paseo de Peralta and the Old Santa Fe Trail, across the street from the state capitol. 

ART – For art lovers, the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum is a don’t miss. You’ll find it at 217 Johnson Street. Be sure to call for hours -(505) 946 1000 as they vary by season.

CULTURE – The Palace of the Governors at 100 Palace Avenue dates from 1601, when it was built by the Spanish. Today, it is a southwestern history museum and hosts an open air market of American Indian art and crafts.

FOOD – You’re in New Mexico, so eat what the natives eat - a mix of Spanish, Mexican, and American Indian cuisines made with local ingredients, such as blue corn, frijoles, squash, corn, and, most of all, chile. Anywhere you go, you’ll be asked if you want red or green chile. Try them both or answer “Christmas”, which is a blend of the two varieties.Try Tomasito’s at 500 South Guadalupe Street for your authentic chile fix.