AboutValerie S Expertise I can answer questions regarding travel around NM, including hotels, restaurants, sights and information about the New Mexico Pueblos. I live in the Albuquerque area and of course know a lot more about this city and environs, but can also answer questions about Santa Fe, Taos, national parks and culture.
Experience I have lived in NM for 19 years and have a deep love for our multi-ethnic culture. I have volunteered for the Albuquerque Convention and Vistor's Bureau. I have been involved in the travel industry for 7 years.
Education/Credentials BA History for University of New Mexico
Expert: Valerie S Date: 2/18/2002 Subject: hotels in Sante Fe
Question we made reservations in Sante Fe at the Dancing Ground of the Sun Hotel. The pictures on the web looked great. What do you think of this place? Is is close to the galleries, etc. Any suggestions for great Mexican food in Sante Fe?
Also, we will be traveling by car from Tucson to lowere New Mexico (Silver Springs) and then up to Albuquerque and then Sante Fe. Any travel tips?Thanks.
Answer Hello Sue,
The Dancing Ground is in a good location off the Plaza, on the quieter north side. I've not been inside but it looks very nice and I'm sure you'll find the accomodations pleasant. From there you can walk to all the museums on/near the Plaza and can easily catch the bus to Guadalupe area or other parts of Santa Fe.
A couple of good New Mexican restaurants - Tomasita's at the old railyard on Guadalupe is very good. A drive up to Chimayo (about 1/2 hour from Santa Fe) is a pretty drive and dinner at Rancho de Chimayo is always good. Breakfast or lunch at the Tecolote on Cerrillos is a locals ritual. And of course there is the famed "Frito Pie" at the Five and Dime on the Plaza. Definitely a local thing!
Driving up from Southern NM - From Silver City to T or C is a pretty drive, but from there up to Albuquerque is pretty sparse and boring on I-25. Not much way around that unless you want the long, scenic route up through the Gila Mountains (not recommended in winter). For a diversion from the northerly drive, hop off at Socorro and drive east to the tiny San Antonio where you can eat at the famous Owl Bar, birthplace of the green chile cheeseburger. This is also the childhood home of Conrad Hilton. (His first hotel is the La Posada in downtown Albuquerque.)
I hope this is helpful for you. If you have additional questions or want clarification on my answer, feel free to let me know.
Vaya con Dios,
Valerie
