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Enchanted New Mexico with the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta & Santa Fe
Overview
Highlights (Bullets)
- Albuquerque: Opening ceremonies; Mass Ascension; International Balloon Museum; Indian Pueblo Cultural Center; Balloon Glow & After-Glow fireworks show at the Balloon Fiesta
- Santa fe: Travel the Turquoise Trail; trolley tour including Loretto Chapel; farewell dinner featuring authentic Southwestern cuisine; visit to the Georgia O’Keefe Museum
- See the mass ascension of balloons and stand in awe during the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, the largest ballooning event in the world and one of New Mexico’s most dazzling spectacles
- On this Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta tour, a local balloonist will educate you on ballooning, so you will be ready for the fiesta
Short Description
Whoever said “Life isn’t all sunshine and rainbows” never visited the enchanting state of New Mexico or attended the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Artists, writers, and poets have long been inspired by the hues of hot pinks, deep purples, and flaming oranges that dance daily across the mystical southwestern sky. But for one week in October, chasing rainbows becomes even easier as hundreds of hot air balloons take flight and turn the already stunning atmosphere into a kaleidoscope of dizzying color. The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta may be the largest balloon event in the world, yet its Mass Ascension, fiery Balloon Glow, evening fireworks, and other beloved rituals aren’t the only highlights on this vibrant New Mexico vacation. Visits to artsy Santa Fe, and the pilgrimage Miracle Stairway are equally uplifting. Want more tamales? More turquoise? More peppers? More pottery? Who doesn’t?! Extend your New Mexico vacation with two extra days in sunbaked Santa Fe and linger a little longer in the cafés, galleries, missions, and museums this is adobe haven is known for.
Itinerary
Day 1: ARRIVE IN ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO
Welcome to Albuquerque! At 6 pm, meet your traveling companions for a welcome drink. You’ll also enjoy a special presentation from a [LF] local Balloonist, who will educate you on the sport of ballooning and what you’ll experience.
LOCAL FAVORITECULTURE & TRADITION Enjoy a presentation from a special guest that has been a balloon pilot since the 70’s. Hear the history of the fiesta, his experience, and what special things to look for during the next day’s Mass Ascension.
Day 2: ALBUQUERQUE
Up, Up & Away! Get ready for the world-famous Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta! Experience this morning’s pre-dawn Opening Ceremonies and the unforgettable Mass Balloon Ascension. Then, visit a [LF] traditional New Mexican restaurant for a festive lunch and margaritas. This evening, catch the popular Balloon Glow, where all balloons fire up their burners and light up at the same time, and the amazing After-Glow Fireworks show. (Breakfast,Lunch)
NOTE: Schedule of activities vary from year-to-year and can be impacted by weather. Your Tour Director will be able to confirm the exact schedule of activities on tour.
LOCAL FAVORITELOCAL TASTES Be treated to an authentic New Mexico experience with a traditional southwestern lunch and margaritas served in a popular Albuquerque restaurant. New Mexican dishes, from enchiladas and chili rellenos to salsa and sopapillas are served in a festive atmosphere in true local style.TOUR HIGHLIGHT INSPIRING SIGHTS Look skyward as hundreds of hot air balloons lift off and turn the sky into a virtual rainbow of colors, all led by a balloon flying the American flag to the music of The Star-Spangled Banner. What began as a gathering of 13 balloons more than 47 years ago has grown into the largest ballooning event in the world. While on the balloon grounds, enjoy breakfast at the Chasers Club followed by a visit to the International Balloon Museum, dedicated to the art, culture, science, history, and spectacle of ballooning.
Day 3: ALBUQUERQUE
Ancient Arts & Modern Sciences This morning, learn about New Mexico’s legendary covert military projects, including the Manhattan Project, with a guided tour of the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History. The museum provides an objective, accessible window into the past, present, and future of nuclear science from the origins of atomic theory to modern-day advances in nuclear medicine. Then, visit the fascinating museum and crafts market of the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. Tonight is at leisure. (Breakfast)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT HISTORY & HERITAGE Explore the inspiring crafts and museum exhibits collectively run by the 19 New Mexico pueblos (villages). Here, you will learn about the history, background, and life of what now comprise the 19 pueblos of New Mexico.
Day 4: ALBUQUERQUE–SANTA FE
Southwestern Jewels Today, travel along the [LF] Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway to Santa Fe. This scenic drive passes through the foothills of the Sandia Mountains, past wide-open spaces, and dramatic scenery. Arrive in Santa Fe, the oldest seat of government in the U.S. Experience this city up close as you embark on a city sightseeing tour, including the San Miguel Mission, the Palace of the Governors, the State Capitol, and Loretto Chapel’s “Miracle Stairway.” Next, take a captivating glimpse into the diversity of folk art from around the world. The Museum of International Folk Art in Santa Fe allows you to explore a vast collection of traditional textiles, ceramics, paintings, and other unique objects that showcase the rich cultural heritage of different regions and communities. (Breakfast)
LOCAL FAVORITELEGENDARY LIVES The Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway covers 15,000 square miles in the heart of central New Mexico, linking Albuquerque and Santa Fe. Drive back into history through the mining towns of Golden, Madrid, and Cerrillos along this historic trail named for the aqua-hued turquoise first mined by the early Pueblo people.
Day 5: SANTA FE. EXCURSION TO BANDELIER
Santa Fe Tastes and Sounds This morning, visit to explore the ancient Anasazi Puebloans and their cliff dwellings, and the museum at Bandelier National Monument. Return to Santa Fe Plaza for lunch at a celebrated local restaurant. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to explore the plaza. This evening, enjoy a festive farewell dinner with live [LF] entertainment. (Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)
LOCAL FAVORITECULTURAL GEMS Enjoy a wonderful dinner to celebrate your Southwestern adventure along with the joyous sounds of traditional Mariachi music. Hear the voices of traditional singers and musicians who perform this beautifully rich music in the tradition of celebrating the joys, struggles, and triumphs of the Mexican people.
Day 6: SANTA FE
Bones & Blossoms on Canvas Spend the next two days in Santa Fe exploring on your own. Your time here includes admission to the Georgia O’Keefe Museum. You may also want to visit the New Mexico History Museum or the Palace of the Governors, talk with the locals in the historic Santa Fe Plaza, or taste world class Southwestern food at one of the many restaurants and bars. (Breakfast)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT ART & CULTURE Visit the Georgia O’Keefe Museum in Santa Fe to immerse yourself in the exquisitely unique paintings and artwork of this extraordinary woman. Hear how she lived in the desert here and captured the intimate beauty of flowers, bleached cattle bones, landscapes, and sky in her independent style.
Day 7: SANTA FE
Southwest Style Enjoy a free day in Santa Fe. (Breakfast)
FREE TIME TIPS EXPLORE MORE in Santa Fe with the free time to browse the beautiful crafts and jewelry along the sidewalk shops or indulge in authentic Mexican cuisine. Your Tour Director has the best tips for a great day in Santa Fe! Tap your GlobusGO mobile app for more local ideas and directions.
Day 8: SANTA FE
Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. If you choose to fly from the Albuquerque International Sunport Airport, please note that it is a 1.5-hour drive from Santa Fe depending on traffic. Schedule your departing flights accordingly. (Breakfast)
Availability
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10,827 Globus Travel Reviews & Ratings
Enchanted New Mexico with the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta & Santa Fe
Company Reviews
It was a great itinerary
Mostly the country
Good hotels, more dinners and good tour guide
Tour director Bea
WARNING TO TRAVELERS USING GLOBUS…
My dream trip of a 10-day European vacation turned into a nightmare with Globus Family of Brands! Despite completing 2 of 3 payments, and paying in full for business class airfare, Globus cancelled my trip after I missed the last payment by two weeks, citing “failure to pay” as the reason for the cancellation.
Globus failed to provide notification of a final payment being due by either phone or email. Traveler requested proof of email notifications sent and Globus was unable to produce.
Globus offers no option for the set up of automatic payments.
Globus failed to provide notification of the cancellation. Traveler became aware only when a proactive call was placed to check on trip activities because of an inability to log into portal (portal had been deleted by Globus).
Globus refused to rebook and allow me to pay in full. Company ceased communication after repeated attempts by email for resolution. Repeated requests ignored.
Globus stated that they are keeping $3700 + dollars as penalty. Repeated attempts for an exact amount have been ignored by both phone and email. Please note that a minimum of $3700 was paid in order for Globus to keep the money as a penalty. Showing in fact, that the traveler did not fail to pay.
Despite multiple attempts to reach a resolution, Globus stopped responding, displaying a shocking lack of regard for customer service.
Calls were recorded. Globus has refused request for call recordings or transcripts.
All email communication has been saved.
This was my first time traveling…
Details
Optional Activities
AF|Enchanted New Mexico with Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
AFE|With Santa Fe
Group Size
Standard Group - 25 + people
Accommodations
DoubleTree by Hilton Albuquerque
Hospitality is number one at the DoubleTree in Albuquerque, where you're welcomed by the signature DoubleTree chocolate chip cookie, comfortable accommodations, modern amenities, and a superb location. Situated downtown, it's the closest hotel to the Albuquerque Convention Center and is connected by underground concourse. Complimentary shuttle service is available to shopping, dining and entertainment within a three-mile radius. Offering stunning views of the Sandia Mountains, this Albuquerque hotel provides a unique, relaxing setting in the heart of the city.
Albuquerque
United States
201 Marquette Ave NW
Hilton of Santa Fe Historic Plaza
Housed in a landmark 300 year old hacienda, the Hilton captures the magic of the Southwest and its rich cultural heritage in a luxury boutique hotel experience featuring modern amenities in the heart of Santa Fe's historic downtown.
Atlanta
United States
PO Box 743288
Trip ID#:
globus-AFE
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