El Farolito has kinda become the benchmark lodging for our bi-annual trips to Santa Fe, but my wife is wondering if there might be another place in a similar budget category that we would equally enjoy. In her limited research, Hacienda Nicholas and El Paradero have some appeal, but I'm a little reluctant to make a change without the benefit of an opinion from someone I can trust. Beachgirl or DebitNM, or someone else...... anything to recommend? We stayed at Inn on the Alameda several years ago, but have since gone back to, and prefer El Farolito.

Have you looked at Farolito's sister property, Four Kachinas Inn?

Another that comes to mind is Inn of the Five Graces. I love it for it's unique decor, old pueblo rooms and buildings and its proximity to the plaza and restaurants.

If El Farolito is your favorite, why not try a different room or even pick a favorite room of yours? Sometimes a known quantity may help you relax even more.

A condo or casita rental may be enjoyable as well as you know your way around Santa Fe and it may provide the r&r you are looking for.

Have a great time and enjoy that charred tomato salsa we all love!

Hey, thanks Beachgirl!

Yes, we've looked at Four Kachinas, but like the southwest adobe look of the casitas at El Farolito better. And I'd reserve Inn of the Five Graces in a heartbeat if the rates weren't more than double others we're considering (You don't have an inside track to lower rates, do you?).

I saw your link yesterday to luxurycasita.com; hmmmm..... has me thinking.

But really, I'm wondering why my wife got ants in her pants, and wants to try something new. So, I think I'll use your "known quantity" and/or "try a different room" advice on her. Or, maybe you could just post a message saying Hacienda Nicholas just doesn't compare to El Farolito? So I wouldn't have to lie? ;-)

I am sure you have looked at:

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotels-g6...co-Hotels.html

I don't stay in Santa Fe, living so close so I don't have any first hand ideas. Sheila is the one for that; and she knows her stuff.

Would you do a small casita? I have some info from a friend that stayed at a nice one.

Deb

Hi Beachbum, just wondering what it was you preferred about El Farolito vs. Inn on the Alameda?

We're taking our first trip to Santa Fe for our 30th anniversary (end of May/first week of June). I booked at Inn on the Alameda, although someone else also recommended El Farolito (it was "Beachgirl"-- perhaps you know her?. It appears to be already booked up although I haven't tried calling (just looked online, which isn't always accurate, I find). Curious how you'd compare the two--thanks!