Discovering the Many Wonders of New Mexico


Indian country, the true Southwest, the land of enchantment - these are just some of the nicknames earned by New Mexico. This state in the American Southwest used to be a Spanish colony, a Mexican colony then an American territory. It was only during the early 1900s that New Mexico achieved full statehood status.

What's so fascinating about visiting New Mexico is that it sets itself apart from all the other states in the US. Starting from the culture, the largely Spanish-speaking population all the way to the breathtaking natural scenery and sumptuous cuisine, there is no matching the experience of visiting this state.

Virtually Hopping through the Regions & Major Cities in New Mexico

To start right off, let us virtually hop through the regions and major cities in New Mexico. Basically, the regions of the state include:
-    Central New Mexico
Most of the natives from New Mexico live in this region, which is located along the Middle Rio Grande Valley. It's also where the largest city of Albuquerque is located.
-    North Central New Mexico
If your goal is to drive through the state's top tourist destinations, check out Santa Fe and Taos which are both in the North Central region.
-    Northeast New Mexico
There are many destinations which are a must-visit in this region including the Santa Fe Trail, Route 66, the Rocky Mountains and the Great Plains.
-    Northwest New Mexico
Those who would like to discover a truly unique culture should check out the northwest region of New Mexico. It is part of the Four Corners region and the Navajo nation, where you can have a glimpse of red rocks and other interesting geological formations. 
-    Southwest New Mexico
Situated along Rio Grande, the south western part of New Mexico is filled with low-lying mountain ranges and it is also the agricultural center of the state.
-    Southeast New Mexico
Finally, there's the south eastern part of New Mexico which lies on the lowest region of the state.

From the central to the south eastern part of New Mexico, there are plenty of points of interest which are considered a must-visit. First on the list is the state capital which is Santa Fe. This is where you can find a host of museums, photogenic churches like the St. Francis Cathedral, theaters and galleries. Festivals are also held year-round.

You can go on a hot air balloon ride in Albuquerque, discover the Navajo nation in Farmington, learn a bit about the local history in Los Alamos, check out New Mexico's very own version of Las Vegas, marvel at the sight of the old mining town called Silver City, and stop by other cities and major destinations which are worth visiting.

More about the Appeal of America's “True Southwest”

Now that you already have an idea about the major cities and tourist attractions in New Mexico, what else is there to discover about one of the most unique states in the nation? Perhaps the most interesting part of visiting the sate is when you immerse yourself in everything that the local culture has to offer. New Mexico is one of the few places left in the world where the Pueblo Native American and Spanish cultures are very much alive.

Just like the hot air balloon capital of the world which is Albuquerque, Santa Fe has an adobe architecture which has an artistic community. Festivals are held year-round in the oldest state capital in the US.

New Mexico is also the only state in the US with a significant number of national parks which are solely dedicated to preserving Native Indian civilizations. There's the Bandelier Park in Los Alamos, the Pueblo Indian ruins in Aztec and the Chaco Culture National Historical Park.  Specifically, the Taos Pueblo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the only living Native American community exists, and it is also considered a National Historic Landmark.

New Mexico Holiday Rentals

With half a dozen regions to choose from as your main destination, you will have an equally varied selection when it comes to the holiday rentals in New Mexico. Whether you are planning to stay for an extended weekend, a one-week vacation or even longer - the good news is that there are plenty of places where you can stay.

Depending on the budget that you have, you can rent a town house in Albuquerque, a luxurious condo in Santa Fe, or simply choose one of the bed and breakfast inns within the area that you're vacationing in. Modest apartments, rental homes, luxury villas, cottages by the beach - the possibilities of the accommodations that you can have in New Mexico are practically endless.

If you're visiting the state during the height of summer or the peak of the tourist season, just make sure to book in advance so that you will have prime choices when it comes to the places where you will be staying at.

University of New Mexico

Santa Fe Opera

Organ Mountains (New Mexico)

Aztec Ruins National Monument

Carson National Forest

Acoma Pueblo

Capulin Volcano National Monument

White Sands National Monument

Fort Union National Monument

Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument