Hi:
We're going to be in New Mexico for 6 days at the end of April and would really like to spend out time hiking in bandelier and visiting Taos. Doing some scenic driving. We're landing in Albequerque. Do you recommend we go straight to Santa Fe and then carry out our itinerary from there, or would we be best to head to Bandelier from Albequerque and skip Santa Fe?
Thanks!
Karin

Skip Santa Fe? No Way! I think it would make a great base for your trip to Bandelier. Besides Santa Fe can be a very interesting and enjoyable place if you do it right. I don't think that there's anywhere to stay around Bandelier-- but you could stay in Jemez Springs for the funky and remote kind of hippy flavor of the area. If you've got beaucoup bucks there's also Rancho de San Juan--awesome.(one of the Relaix and Chateau hotels). Then head up to Taos on the "high road" stopping along the way for lunch at Rancho de Chimayo, Truchas, etc, then into Taos. Staying in Taos for the balance of the Trip. By the way you can still run into some snow in April, so check the weather forcasts. There are some wonderful B.and B.'s in Taos, as well. You will have a wonderful time in New Mexico, no matter what you do. Bon Voyage.

I recently visited Santa Fe. If you want a truly unique experience, try Wild Earth LLama Adventures. Stuart is one of the nicest, well informed individuals I have ever met. He is located outside of Taos, and can take you on hikes that range from medium to things I wouldn't try. His Llama are friendly, gentle creatures that carry all of your gear. His web site is www.llamaadventures.com phone (800)758-lama. After the hike, Ten thousand waves, just outside Santa Fe, is a wonderful Japanese Spa that is great for soothing aching muscles. Have fun and don't miss Santa Fe, a wonderful town to walk around. Don't miss The Coyote Cafe for breakfast/lunch, and Geronimo's simply can't be beat for dinner, although somewhat expensive.

There is alot to see besides Bandalier and Taos. Spend a day and take the tour at Acoma Pueblo, Sky City. Its about an hour west of Albuquerque. Also, drives through Jemez Springs, Tierra Amarilla and Chama are beautiful. I live in ABQ so email me if you have questions.
Paul

Iwouldn't skip Santa Fe. You can take some nice hikes from there. Besides, if you want a scenic drive and to visit Taos, what better thing to do than to take the High Road to Taos from Santa Fe, and accomplish both?