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La buena Vida

Escape

destination Southwest
Although autumn might conjure images of fall foliage tours in New England, hayrides through pumpkin patches or even a brisk trek through California’s wine country, it’s actually the perfect time to explore the American Southwest. Rediscover, or perhaps see for the first time, the diversity of the region’s Hispanic landscape, from the vibrant colors of New Mexico’s Sandia Mountains to the artistry of Santa Fe’s flamenco community to Phoenix’s Spanish-Mexican-Native American fusion cuisine. Whether you pick a small town or bustling city, these five Southwestern hot spots are among the best destinations in the region.

Santa Fe, New Mexico
Known as The City Different, Santa Fe is known for galleries, theater and the arts. Ut regularly ranking among the world’s most beautiful metro areas.

Where to Stay:
Hotel St. Francis: A handsome mix of luxury and history, this hotel is also known for its great dining. www.hotelstfrancis.com
The Inn of the Five Graces: This boutique hotel marries Asian style with Southwest ambiance for a colorful and intimate experience. www.fivegraces.com
The Lodge at Santa Fe: Enjoy Native American décor and have a bite at Las Mananitas, the city’s only hilltop restaurant.
www.hhandr.com/lodgesf
La Fonda Hotel: 1920s design with hints of the Old Southwest. www.lafondasantafe.com

Where to Eat:
315: European cuisine and a fantastic wine list make 315 a must. www.315santafe.com
La Casa Sena: Located in the historic Sena Plaza, this fine eatery boasts a wine shop and cantina. 505-988-9232
Santacafe: Its high-end southwestern cuisine has been featured on Food Network. www.santacafe.com

What to See and Do:
The Plaza: Located in the city’s center, these shops are a hub of tourist shopping. Find pottery, bookstores, galleries and fine jewelry.
Santa Fe Farmer’s Market: Tuesdays and Saturdays through October. Get a taste of fresh produce from the growers themselves. www.santafefarmersmarket.com
Barrio de Analco: This National Historic Landmark is a picturesque district of adobe facades including the Chapel of San Miguel.
Institute of American Indian Arts Museum:
The best of contemporary Native American Art. www.iaia.edu
Maria Benitez Teatro Flamenco: The star of the flamenco community performs with her dance troupe. www.mariabenitez.com
Taos, New Mexico
At the foot of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains sits Taos. Situated in Northern New Mexico and a favorite setting for films, it’s is the epitome of Southwestern charm.

Where to Stay:
El Monte Sagrado: Regularly rated among the U.S.’s best hotels and retreats, the terra-cotta oasis boasts the four-diamond De la Tierra restaurant, featuring regionally inspired cuisine. www.elmontesagrado.com
Inn on La Loma Plaza: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this inn is known for its upscale and detail-oriented décor featuring original Miro and Dali prints, five-star service, gourmet goodies and specialty rooms. www.vacationtaos.com
American Artists Gallery House: Half artist residence, half chic inn, this intimate gallery-style hotel is known for its scenic views, top-notch food and peaceful ambiance. www.taosbedandbreakfast.com

Where to Eat:
Byzantium: Diners feast in high style at this unique eatery that features fusion cuisine with Asian, Middle Eastern and European influences. 505-751-0805
Doc Martin’s Restaurant at Taos Inn: Weekend brunch set in this historic inn is a special treat for organic-food lovers. The wine list boasts more than 400 choices and has earned recognition from Wine Spectator for 18 years. www.taosinn.com/restaurant
Joseph’s Table: Regarded as one of the best restaurants in the state, Joseph’s is known for its original interpretation; located in the Hotel la Fonda de Taos. www.josephstable.com

What to See and Do:
Ranchos de Taos: Just south of Taos proper, this settlement is a collection of small galleries, bed and breakfast inns and San Francisco de Asis, a historic mission once painted by Georgia O’Keefe.
Taos Ski Valley: One of the best ski resorts in the country, the slopes are open from late November through end of March. Summer chairlift rides run through September 30. www.skitaos.org
Taos Pueblo: A small village with a wealth of craftsmen and artists at the foothills of the Taos Mountains, Taos Pueblo is a Native American community that is open to the public for private tours and certain ceremonies. In September the pueblo celebrates San Geronimo Eve and Day. www.taospueblo.com
33rd Taos Fall Arts Festival: Taos has its own fall foliage and this one-of-a-kind arts fair is set among the changing leaves. From September 21 to October 8 take a peek at work during the Taos Open, Taos Invites Taos and the Taos Living Masters International.
www.taosfallarts.com

Albuquerque,
New Mexico
Having just celebrated its 300th birthday, Albuquerque’s galleries, nature reserves and golf courses draw people from all over.
Where to Stay:
Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town: Located in the historic district, this gem is just steps from Spanish churches, shops and some excellent restaurants. www.hhandr.com/hotelabq
Bottger Mansion of Old Town Bed & Breakfast: Hundred-year-old trees surround this pink-hued Victorian inn. Built in 1910, it offers gourmet breakfasts and golf and balloon-ride packages. www.bottger.com
The Hotel Blue: An art-deco-inspired boutique hotel, the 135-room hotel offers swanky style downtown. www.thehotelblue.com

Where to Eat:
Church Street Café: An Albuquerque institution, its New Mexican dishes date back four generations, making it one highly regarded eatery. www.churchstreetcafe.com
St. Clair Winery & Bistro: The largest winery in New Mexico, this family-run establishment features a tasting room, live music and upscale patio dining. www.stclairvineyards.com
Prairie Star at Santa Ana Golf Club: Located in the posh Santa Ana, the restaurant resides in a 1920s-era mansion and is revered for its specialties. www.santaana.org/prairie.htm

What to Do:
Old Town Art Galleries: An abundance of art can be found along the streets of old town. From the Nemat Galleries o Weems Gallery there is much to see and buy.
National Hispanic Cultural Center: View paintings from the permanent collection, hear a book reading or take part in the Latin Diva series. www.nationalhispaniccenter.org
Nob Hill: A hip, young downtown scene, the streets of this little district are peppered with cool clubs and hot restaurants.
2007 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta: Thousands descend upon the city to watch more than 700 balloons take flight during this eight-day festival October 6 though 14.
www.balloonfiesta.com
Phoenix, Arizona
This Southwestern city is one of the premier golf and spa destinations of the world and has one of the largest concentrations of four- and five-star restaurants in the country.

Where to Stay:
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess: Rated a five-diamond hotel by AAA, the resort is an enviable location from its beautifully manicured desert grounds to its top-notch restaurants to its amazing spa. www.fairmont.com/scottsdale
The Boulders Resort: Perfect your golf swing at the Boulders Golf Academy, play on the two championship-level courses, or spend a some time in the luxurious Golden Door Spa.
www.theboulders.com
Royal Palms Resort and Spa: The four-star Alvadora Spa is reason enough to stay at this elaborate resort, but add 119-casitas, guest rooms and great restaurants and it is a must-see destination. www.royalpalmshotel.com
Where to Eat:
Roy’s: Chef Roy Yamaguchi’s inspired Hawaiian fusion cuisine blends seafood with Asian spices and European touches. An extensive wine list provides the perfect complement.
www.roysrestaurant.com
Mary Elaine’s: Located inside the Phoenician Resort, this bistro serves contemporary French fare with a sophisticated ambiance. www.thephoenician.com
Vincent on Camelback: A favorite of both critics and locals, the cuisine is heralded as upscale Southwestern with perfect French facets. www.vincentoncamelback.com

What to Do:
Phoenix Zoo: One of the country’s top five zoos for children presents some wonderful October events including ZooFari 20th Anniversary Gala, Zoo Paint 2007 and Bashas! Boo at the Zoo. www.phoenixzoo.org
Desert Botanical Gardens: October sees several events at the 50-acre gardens such as the Great Pumpkin Festival, a Dia de los Muertos Celebration and the Fall Plant Sale. www.desertbotanical.org
Phoenix Art Museum: One of the country’s premiere art museums holds two new exhibits in October: “A Century of Retablos: The Janis and Dennis Lyon Collection of New Mexican Santos” and the 42nd Annual Cowboy Artists of America Exhibition & Sale. www.phxart.org
Taliesin West: Located west of downtown Phoenix in Scottsdale, Taliesin West was the home and working space of Frank Lloyd Wright. Staff offer tours of the property that includes a theater, studio and garden.
www.franklloydwright.org