United States > Santa Fe Fiesta

We start the day by driving back to Tierra Amarilla. Here we turn left toward Taos. The road winds upward. Through wide hairpin bends, we climb higher and higher. The view along the mountain road is fabulous. At just over three kilometers in elevation, we pass the mountain pass. After that, we descend again. About thirty kilometers before Taos, we cross the Rio Grande Bridge. This bridge is one of the highest in the United States. The Rio Grande River lies 172 meters below in the carved canyon. It is a spectacular sight. On the bridge there are special posts for people who are not there for the view, but want to jump. The sign on the post reads, “There is still hope, press the button.” Taos is a typical Western town with only brick-colored adobe houses. On the plaza, there is a small market. In the past, Taos attracted many artists and free spirits. Consequently, the town has numerous art galleries. Just after noon, we continue on to Santa Fe. Santa Fe is similar to Taos in architectural style, but the city is much larger.

United States - The center of Taos consists of adobe houses

We arranged an overnight stay through Airbnb. Through an email, we received all the necessary information. We can enter through the garage to reach our apartment. The key is in a locker, and the code is in the email. A fine place to stay for the night. In the center of Santa Fe, a celebration is taking place. It is the historic festival of cultural renewal. Spanish, Western, and American traditions have come together here. A Mexican band plays on stage, and people are dancing. The adobe houses give Santa Fe a cozy appearance. Even new buildings are constructed in this style. At the Tourist Info, we are warmly welcomed. The two ladies seem delighted that tourists from outside the U.S. have come to ask questions. They explain that Santa Fe is the second oldest city in the United States and the oldest state capital. The city was founded in 1610 by the Spanish. We receive information about the festival and numerous tips for exploring the city. They think we should have stayed longer. With the information and the city map, I set out. Angela explores the little shops. The small San Miguel Church is the oldest church in the United States. Directly across from it stands the oldest house. It is remarkable to see this—this is the oldest history of the United States. I walk along Canyon Street, a street full of studios. Beautiful art pieces are displayed in the front yards. Some are beautiful, others rather bizarre. Along the small river, I walk back to the center. A man walking his dog tells me that the river is almost always dry. But because of the wet winter and the heavy rainfall over the past weeks, water is flowing. In the evening, we want to eat at a typical New Mexican restaurant recommended by the Tourist Info. The large parking lot is completely full. Inside, at least forty people are waiting for a table. The wait time is over an hour. We decide to go to the second recommended restaurant. Here too, we have to wait, but less than half an hour. We choose to stay. The tacos are an excellent choice, and we have no regrets following the advice.