Destination Dash - Albuquerque, New Mexico

Today's Destination Dash features Albuquerque, New Mexico, a place that always surprises me. It is easy to navigate, has plenty to do for people across all demographics, and features art, history, science, archaeology, and plenty of outdoor opportunities. I've had the chance to visit ABQ (the airport code) for client business many times and have always been lucky to have time to explore. This list represents my 'must-do' activities for those of you who have limited time to visit. All of these could be accomplished in one day, assuming you are full of energy and well-nourished on strong coffee. :)

photo found on the Albuquerque Visitor's Center webpage -Getty Images

Name: Albuquerque, New Mexico
Population: 557,169 (2014 est.)
Flight Time: from LAX, 12 hr 55 minutes
Etymology of the name: Version 1: albus quercus meaning "white oak" in honor of Spanish Duke of Albuquerque. Version 2: the Galician word albaricoque, meaning "apricot". The apricot was brought to New Mexico by Spanish settlers. Supposedly, the original settlement was established near an apricot tree and became known as La Ciudad de Albaricoque. As frontiersmen were unable to correctly pronounce the Galician word, it became corrupted to "Albuquerque.
Special Note: This is where Bugs Bunny should have taken a left turn in 1945. :)

My top 5 things to do in Albuquerque:

1. Visit the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. Their mission statement says it all: "To preserve and perpetuate Pueblo culture and to advance understanding by presenting with dignity and respect,
the accomplishments and evolving history of the Pueblo people of New Mexico".
Recommended time - 2 hours.

2.  For something completely different....visit the National Museum of Nuclear Science and History. Here you can learn about the Atomic Age and the influence of nuclear energy on the past, present, and future. A perfect place to take those interested in science, aviation, and history. If you have children, check out the kid-specific exhibits.
Recommended time - 2 hours.

3. Albuquerque BioPark Botanic Garden - If you only one day in ABQ, make this one of your destinations! They have a zoo, a botanic garden, a aquarium, and facilities for fishing and boating. Events throughout the year, family-friendly, and easily accessible. If that doesn't convince you, this place was names as one of the top 12 botanic gardens in the country by the Travel Channel!
Recommended time - 2 hours or more.

4. Petroglyph National Monument -  For the outdoorsy among you, this place offers a great place to stretch your legs and see ruins, artifacts, and petroglyphs. It is one of my favorite places in Albuquerque. Start your visit at the Visitor's Center to get an overview of the locale, maps, and plan your day.
Recommended time - at least 2 hours. 

5. Old Town Albuquerque - Beyond the Indian Pueblo center, it is a bit touristy here, but makes for a great place to have a bite to eat, window shop and get a sense of the culture of the area. A highlight for me is the San Felipe de Neri Church, dating back to 1706 (current version built in 1793).
Recommended time - 1 1/2 to 3 hours.

There is so much more to do in ABQ, including hiking the Sandia Peak, taking the tram over the same, the international hot air balloon festival, taking in a minor league baseball game, and more. Hopefully, this will get your planning in motion. Albuquerque makes a great destination for a weekend or longer so consider adding it to your trip list.

 Peace, love, and travel!

Destination Dash - Sedona, Arizona

This issue of Destination Dash features a place I have been countless times yet it still surprises me - Sedona, Arizona. Yes, it has its share of crystal spinners and ley line readers but it also has upscale spas, incredible hiking, and some palate-pleasing dining opportunities.

Name: Sedona, Arizona
Population: 10, 111 (2013)
Flight Time: from LAX, 2 hrs 55 minutes, with connections
Get Started: Stop by the vistor's center on 331 Forest Road to pick up some information.

5 things to do in Sedona:

1. Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross. Even if you aren't Catholic or religiously inclined, this majestic structure was designed to blend in with the surrounding rocks by Marguerite Brunswig Staude and sites 200 feet above the valley floor. Recommended time - 1 hour.

2.  Spend the afternoon at Tlaquepaque. This is touted as an arts and crafts village but feels more like a time warp to a Spanish colonial square. Cobbled paths, shade aplenty and a wide variety of shops will charm even the most shopping-averse among you (trust me, I hate to shop but don't mind spending hours here). WARNING - DO NOT GO OVER THANKSGIVING!! The crowds are insane. Recommended time - 2 hours.

3. Hike Oak Creek Canyon - No matter how many times I hike along Oak Creek, it never gets old. If you are game, consider an overnight trip in August, when the temperatures are close to perfect and the creek floods in certain spots, making for an adventurous amble over rocks and fallen trees. Recommended time - 5 hours or more.

4. Eat at Dahl & DiLuca. You will be hard pressed to find better food in the state of Arizona (at least that's what my out-of-town visitors have told me. This is one of my favorite places to eat. The food and the ambiance create a romantic, intimate dining experience and it is the perfect way to end a weekend in Sedona. Recommended time - 2 hours. 

5. Take a Pink Jeep Tour. If you are stymied as to how to see maximum Sedona in minimal time, consider Pink Jeep Tours. These off-road adventures cover everything from history to scenic beauty within several tour options. Recommended time - 1 1/2 to 3 hours.

This list represents what I have done or what my friends have done (#5). Your list may differ and this is intended to kick-start your planning. Sedona has something to do all year round, so start planning.
Peace, love, and travel!

A shot of Bell Rock I took for the cover of an equestrian supply catalog and yes, it really does look like this!