[kettlecove]

We plan to attend the International Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque, NM this October for a few days. Can anyone pass along some tips from your own experience? We have never been to Albuquerque so restaurant recommendations would also be helpful. Is a car a necessity? Is a side trip to Santa Fe worthwhile?

[Uptown Girl]

Oh, you will enjoy seeing the glorious hot air balloons!!!
The skies are beautiful in New Mexico.

A car is a necessity. Between tourist spots/ towns is vast, pristine land. Highways are kept in great shape.

Trying a hamburger served between two Sopaipillas, (instead of a conventional bun) and topped with green Chile ( like a salsa) is a necessity.

Santa Fe is higher end- ( fine art galleries, exclusive boutiques, $$$ jewelry) but offers cultural, historical interests. It is higher altitude there- some feel a little woozy the first few days.
The Santa Fe Opera (open air) is a glorious experience, if that interests you.
There is also a place in the higher elevations there called Ten Thousand Waves. Volcanic outdoor hot tubs, Japanese style. A whole day trip in and of itself.
Enjoy New Mexico

[SMills]

You will love the hot air balloons, both at dawn and the Illumination in the evening. I went two years ago on a Collette tour and a wonderful time and if this part of the country is new to you, you might look them up on line. Santa Fe is amazing, I agree with Uptown Girl, it is an upscale location, but so worth the trip. Whatever you do, enjoy the trip and drink lots of water!!

[krisk49]

Look at the Gondola Club .... Better view, private parking , buffet and more. You can view it on-line and call for tickets > See you there !!!

[kettlecove]

Thank you all for your advice. I am a little concerned about the trip to Santa Fe if it might mean we become ill from the altitude. we are indeed checking out the Gondola Club tickets. Glad to know you feel it is worth it krisk49!

[JAV0108]

Authentic New Mexico food is so good. If you get a chance go to Sadie's, they have two locations, it is by far the best New Mexican food. You must try the sopapilla's with a little honey, very good. Also, try to get to Old Town, it is a very nice experience and you can buy jewelry from sidewalk vendors. Santa Fe is 1 hour 15 minutes from Albuquerque and if you have time is worth the trip. You will not have a problem with altitude there if you have no problem in Albuquerque. Also, if you can take the tram up to the Sandia Peak in Albuquerque, that is most beautiful also. I lived there for four years and the desert southwest is gorgeous in it's very unique way. The sky is so blue and at night is filled with stars that you think are close enough to pluck out of the sky. Enjoy and let us know what you think.

[Vernster]

You will love Albuquerque and will want to back again and again. Don't miss Old Town....wonderful hand made jewelry by Native Americans at an excellent price. All of New Mexico is well worth visiting. A car is a necessity.

[scd229]

Originally Posted by kettlecove

We plan to attend the International Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque, NM this October for a few days. Can anyone pass along some tips from your own experience? We have never been to Albuquerque so restaurant recommendations would also be helpful. Is a car a necessity? Is a side trip to Santa Fe worthwhile?

Yes you will need a car to get around Albuquerque and to the festival. Going to Santa Fe will be a treat on the NM Rail Runner Express. Check out the web for locations and pricing. In Santa Fe the train lets you off downtown, so no car needed. If you drive to Santa Fe it's only a 45 minute ride from the north part of town. You can take the tram up the Sandia Mtns. Suggestion for the tram, go up before the sun sets, and come down at night to see the beautiful scenery. Don't forget to eat the wonderful Mexican food. You will probably need to make reservations on a Hotel and car soon.