Exploring the Enchanting Charms of Santa Fe, New Mexico

Introduction

Nestled in the high desert of the American Southwest, Santa Fe, New Mexico, stands as a captivating blend of rich history, artistic expression, and cultural diversity. From its adobe architecture to its vibrant arts scene, this city offers a unique experience that resonates with both history enthusiasts and modern explorers. This article delves into the captivating story of Santa Fe, from its storied past to its captivating present.

Historical Tapestry

Santa Fe boasts a history that spans centuries, making it one of the oldest cities in the United States. Founded by Spanish colonists in 1610, the city has been a crossroads of cultures, from Native American tribes to Spanish settlers and later American pioneers. This cultural tapestry is evident in the city’s architecture, traditions, and artistic expressions, creating an atmosphere that feels both timeless and ever-evolving.

Weather and Climate

Santa Fe’s high desert location influences its climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with low humidity, making it an attractive destination for those seeking a break from more sweltering climates. Winters can bring cold temperatures and occasional snowfall, adding to the city’s picturesque charm. Spring and fall offer mild weather, making these seasons ideal for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions.

Accessibility

Santa Fe’s accessibility makes it a sought-after destination for travelers. The city is served by the Santa Fe Regional Airport, providing convenient access for domestic flights. Additionally, Albuquerque International Sunport, located about an hour’s drive away, offers more flight options. A well-connected highway network provides easy access by road, and Amtrak’s Southwest Chief train route stops in nearby Lamy.

Sights to See

Santa Fe Plaza: The historic heart of the city, the Santa Fe Plaza, dates back to 1610. Framed by adobe buildings, it’s a hub of cultural events, festivals, and markets. The Palace of the Governors, a National Historic Landmark, lines one side of the plaza.

Canyon Road: Known as an artistic mecca, Canyon Road is lined with galleries, boutiques, and studios. It’s a showcase of diverse artistic expressions, from traditional Southwestern art to contemporary works.

Georgia O’Keeffe Museum: Celebrating the iconic artist’s life and work, this museum houses an impressive collection of O’Keeffe’s paintings and sculptures.

Loretto Chapel: This Gothic Revival chapel is renowned for its “miraculous” spiral staircase, which was reportedly built without a central support.

Bandelier National Monument

Santa Fe Opera: Renowned for its stunning open-air theater, the Santa Fe Opera offers a unique cultural experience during the summer months.

Museum Hill: Home to several museums, including the Museum of Indian Arts & Culture and the Museum of International Folk Art, Museum Hill offers insights into global cultures and histories.

Bandelier National Monument: Just a short drive from Santa Fe, this archaeological site showcases ancient Puebloan dwellings carved into the cliffs, providing a glimpse into the region’s early history.

Conclusion

Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a city that invites visitors to step into a world where history, culture, and art converge. Its adobe-lined streets, vibrant arts scene, and stunning natural surroundings make it a destination that captivates the senses and sparks the imagination. Whether you’re exploring its historic sites, indulging in its culinary offerings, or simply strolling through its unique neighborhoods, Santa Fe’s enchanting charms are sure to leave a lasting impression.…

Top 7 Things to See in Chicago that You Cannot Miss!

The largest city in the Midwest and third largest in the entire US, Chicago is one of the most amazing places to visit in the USA. Packed with world-class museums, gorgeous parks, vibrant shopping malls, numerous nightlife venues, and historical cemeteries, you are spoiled with choices when you are planning to visit Chicago.

chicago skyline
Chicago skyline

Here we will give you a rundown of the top things to see in Chicago. See which ones seem the most interesting to you.

Millennium Park

Want some quality time outdoors with your dearest one(s)? This 24-acre public park deserves your attention. You can take a stroll through the Lurie Gardens, gaze at the Cloud Gate, relax in front of the Jay Pritzker Pavilion designed by Frank Gehry or visit the Christmas tree at Washington Street and Michigan Avenue.

millenium park chicago
Millenium Park, Chicago

Lincoln Park Zoo

This vast 35-acre zoo is located right in the middle of the Lincoln Park. It houses over 1000 animals that you get to see in their natural habitats. The best part is entry is free and if you have children with you, they will surely enjoy the day.

The Magnificent Mile  

If you are the extravagant type, this is the place you are looking for to burn a hole in your pocket. This part of Michigan Avenue stretches between Chicago River and Lake Shore. You want to check out this area because it is full of department stores and luxury brands like Neiman Marcus, Lord & Taylor, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Macy’s.

The Magnificent Mile also boasts top-class eateries and hotels and resorts, including Hilton, the Drake, Four Seasons, and InterContinental Chicago. 

The 606

If you are a fitness enthusiast, you might be seeking the best place in Chicago to jog or have a bike ride during your stay. The 606 happens to be the right choice. Wondering how? This is a 2.7-mile-long elevated rail line that was abandoned but has lately been transformed to a pedestrian path, connecting Wicker Park, Logan Square, Bucktown, and Humboldt Park.

Aside from some famous Northside neighborhoods, you will get to check out numerous art installments as well.

Music Box Theater

This lovely 2-screen Lakeview theater is not your typical movie theater that shows the latest Hollywood blockbusters. Rather, it offers a curated selection of movies in a vintage setting with clouds that are projected on the ceiling!

Jackson Park

For those who prefer a touch of nature without having to leave the city, Jackson Park is your go-to choice. 1893’s World’s Columbian Exposition was held in this sprawling park that allows you to take a long walk-through Chicago’s popular Garden of the Phoenix. You can also explore the Midway Plaisance Park nearby that houses an ice rink in the middle of Dorchester and Woodlawn avenues.

jackson park chicago
Statue of the Republic located in Jackson Park, Chicago

The Hideout

A nice music venue has got to be in our list. We cannot think of any other place better than this small and independent venue where live music, talk shows, and dancing are hosted on Saturday night. Their unique and talented entertainment selection is perfect for a nice evening. So, we believe you are now supercharged to pack your stuff and hop on the plane. Have a great time in this magnificent city!…

What to See in Los Angeles

Los Angeles seems to be the center of everything: mixed cultures, deserts and ocean, and the buzz of Hollywood. If you have only a few days to explore these all, you will need a little nudge towards the city’s best sights.

Nature’s Best

Griffith Park Los Angeles
Contrary to popular belief, one can get some nature fix in Los Angeles

When you visit Los Angeles, you usually do so, not for its natural scapes. However, the city also envelops a massive public green space in Griffith Park. Yes, you can hike not too far from the city center. Venice Beach also offers soft, white sand amid the people watching. Santa Monica Beach, on the other hand, will provide you a beach scene that looks like it comes straight from the movies. So, yes, you will get some nature fix in Los Angeles, what with it being close to the Pacific Ocean, hills, and deserts. What is really strange are the oil wells. As you drive around parts of Los Angeles you will see a type of oil well pump called a donkey pumper or rocking horse actively pumping oil out of the ground.

Cultural Mashup

Los Angeles is also known for its culture, not just its inherent one. It is a mix of various cultures. For those of you, though, who want a taste of culture in history, the Original Farmer’s Market is still standing as a highly established landmark. The Los Angeles County of Museum of Art will make your eyes feast on pieces that range from Islamic to European to modern art.

Bling and Hollywood

If you want to go straight to the glitz, you can visit the Paramount Pictures studio. Surprisingly, it is Hollywood’s only studio that has remained. Hollywood Bowl, the Chinese theater, and even the Hollywood forever cemetery can be added to your growing list of places to go. Don’t forget to go by the Hollywood Walk of Fame! You will feel bad if you miss it. For a sweet drive-through fun, Sunset Blvd. is also a must.

Hollywood
Hollywood needs no introduction

Shopping

Rodeo Drive and the Grand Central Market have so much to offer by way of shopping. Once you land at LAX airport, you already get a clue that Los Angeles does not scrimp on its shopping venues. The place has so much to offer that you need to get some control over your credit card. Do get your cameras ready because Rodeo Drive is not just known for shopping. The place is teeming with the wealthy and the famous. You may just spot a celebrity wearing his/her sunglasses while strolling casually around the place.

Griffith Park and Observatory

One of the best views in Los Angeles. There is a spectacular view of the city from here. The exhibits in the observatory about the planets and astronomy and space exploration are very well done. Also in the park is the Los Angeles Zoo.

Disneyland

Enough said. This former orange orchard is where is all began. Surprisingly small in area but with an amazing amount of rides and fun packed in.

Getty Center and Villa

Getty Center Los Angeles
The Getty Center building is as much a work of art as the art inside it

To get to the Getty Center you take a monorail up the hill. It also has a spectacular view of the city. The museum is large and the building is as much a work of art as the art inside it. Plan some time because there is a lot to see. Then the Getty Villa is down on the coast in Malibu. It was built to look like a Roman country house.  It has art and artifacts that date from the Stone Age up until the end of the Roman Empire.…

Seeing the Mayan Ruins

Stretching throughout Central America, the Mayan civilization was an important ancient civilization that has influenced the world as we know it today. The Mayan people have been respected for their vast knowledge in various fields such as astronomy, mathematics, art, language, and architecture. That is, since their rediscovery. They lived so long ago that even the Incas and Aztecs didn’t know they existed. With the rediscovery of their stone cities, people flock to visit its ruins to unravel the civilization’s mystery.

mayan civilization
Mayan Civilization Pyramid

If you want to visit the Mayan Ruins, we have a few suggestions for a smoother, more enjoyable experience of your trip! Besides this blog, if you would like some other travel suggestions, check out http://www.exposervicesinternational.com/

Look for a Place to Stay

For an easier visit, it’s better to stay in accommodations that are closer to the ruins. Several resorts in the area between Tulum and Playa del Carmen provide package tours to people who visit the ruins. Tulum is a well-known hotspot because of its numerous hotel accommodations, rental choices and resorts for visitors.

Choose How to Go About the Ruins

One can either drive or take a tour bus to get to the ruins. Each of the options has pros and cons so you can choose whichever would appeal more to you. Taking the tour bus is convenient. However, because they have a schedule to keep up with, you will have a shorter time to visit each ruins. On the other hand, driving lets you spend more time at the ruins but entails driving in an unfamiliar place.

If you select to drive yourself to the ruins, you can spend for a car rental. You’d be happy to know that rental agencies in Mexico accept driving licenses from any country. When renting for a car, check the rental company’s policies and information about their refunds and insurances. In addition, inquire about the credit card you will use for your travel as some international credit cards come with free rental car insurance. If it does, you are fortunate!

The next thing in mind is to get detailed directions to the ruins. The GPS on your mobile phone with downloaded Mexican maps will help you get to the ruins. Meanwhile, asking the locals for directions will also be helpful.

You can also surf the web or ask the hotel where you’re staying for detailed instructions to the Mayan ruins.

Choose Your Attire

Wearing comfortable clothes is key to enjoy your visit to the Mayan sites. You’ll be walking a lot as you explore so make sure you wear comfortable shoes. Keep off the sun by using a hat and sunscreen. They will also prevent you from getting a sunburn. Additionally, bring a few water bottles with you to stay hydrated.

The Mayan Ruins

Here are some of the Mayan sites to look forward to!

Tulum Mayan Ruins

The ancient walled city of Tulum, is considered to be the loveliest Mayan site in Cancun. Though small, it is beautifully situated atop a 15-m high cliff overlooking at the stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. Tulum is favored for its beautiful Caribbean beaches.

tulum ruins
One of the sites in Tulum

Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza is one of Mexico’s most visited sites. It is also one of the Mayan’s largest cities. Here you can find the temple of Kulkulan or El Castillo as it is known, a 98-foot pyramid with nine square terraces. Tourists gather around the pyramid at sunset to witness the snake-like resemblance of the shadows on the steps due to the setting sun.

Ek Balam Ruins

Built in the Mayan Classic Period, the large city of Ek Balam has various temples and buildings including a majestic central pyramid and two huge palaces. Its architecture goes way back to the Late Classic period.

ekbalam ruins
Ek’Balam Ruins

As beautiful as the ruins are, you should be glad you live now and not then. Life was not easy unless you were king or one of the lords. Hmmm. Maybe not that much has changed after all. …

Earthwatch and Their Science Vacations

Earthwatch – Watching the Earth Since 1971

Earthwatch, founded by Robert Citron and Clarence Truesdale in 1971, is an environmental organization working internationally for the benefit of our planet. The charity encourages people from all walks of life to do collaborative work with elite experts. The goal is to create a sustainable environment through scientific field research.

Since its birth, Earthwatch has already inspired about 100,000 “citizen scientists”, ranging from as young as 10 to as old as over 80, to join their cause.

Archaeology Site for Earth Watch
Archaeology Site

Adventures and Expeditions

If you have the passion and dedication to preserve Mother Nature, then Earthwatch expeditions are for you! The expeditions focus on critical environmental issues on ocean health, wildlife and ecosystems, climate change, and culture and archaeology.

By joining Earthwatch expeditions, you’ll have first-hand experiences on how climate change impacts the preservation and protection of wildlife and marine biodiversity in different countries like South Africa, Brazil, Madagascar, Malaysia, Costa Rica, Kenya, and the list goes on. Pretty cool, right? You’ll also get to witness the diversity of several animal species and understand more how they thrive in their native environment.

On the other hand, citizen scientists (that’s you) can join archaeological expeditions with the interest of understanding the history of ancient people. Experiences include excavation and preservation of artifacts found in excavation sites, surveying and documentation of archeological sites, and of course, exploring the archaeological wonders of the world. It might be strenuous work but the knowledge and mysteries unearthed may impact our planet’s future.

Anyone is welcome to join their expeditions as they provide for both adults and teens. You don’t need prior scientific knowledge to join. How cool is that?

What’s in Store for You

A few of Earthwatch’s expeditions include Climate Change in the Mackenzie Mountains, Conserving Koala Country, Costa Rican Sea Turtles, and Archaeology of the Mongolian Steppe.

Climate Change in the Mackenzie Mountains

In this expedition, witness firsthand the global warming effects in the Arctic.

Conserving Koala Country

Investigate how koalas respond to the rapid environmental change in Great Otway National Park. Also, help conserve their population and homes.

Costa Rican Sea Turtles

Costa Rican Sea Turtle Earth Watch
Sea Turtle

Understand how leatherback turtles behave and how human activities impact these marine animals on the shores of the Pacific.

Archaeology of the Mongolian Steppe

Discover the ancient artifacts and treasures hidden in Mongolia’s Ikh Nart Nature Reserve by participating in this expedition.

A Legacy to Watch Out For

Earthwatch is dedicated to bringing people from all over the world together to engage in scientific field research and education. The goal is to gain a better understanding of the environment and what actions to take to sustain it. Their projects are held in over 40 countries worldwide.

Working collaboratively with scientists, educators and students, communities, corporate fellows, and the general public, they aim to provide learning experiences that will foster new environmental leaders, implement sustainable practices and policies that encourage environmental responsibility, and preserve and protect wildlife populations. Additionally, they also work for the preservation of our cultural heritage and improve people’s living all over the globe.

The Best Reasons to Visit Australia – Scientific Tourism

Though it may not seem like it at first with its landscapes being largely the driest and flattest nation on Earth, the Commonwealth of Australia is a great place for animal and marine biology lovers, and even aspiring astronomers as well. A sovereign nation born of British colonialism, it possesses one of the least densely populated land masses in terms of human population, but that only means the wildlife is that much more interesting, and you might not even have to visit one of its ten thousand beaches to get your fill of this awe inspiring nation. Although the beaches are great for bird watching as the Aussies would say, there are many other natural wonders across the country.

koala bear, Australia

The Most Famous Name in Khaki Shorts

            One of the first things that comes to people’s minds when they think of Australian wildlife is the beloved icon of nature documentaries, Steve Irwin, and for good reason. His efforts to save, study, document, and rehabilitate animals had touched the hearts of an entire generation, and inspired children the world over to join in conservation efforts. He has his own zoo, the Australian Zoo located in Queensland, and it was the home of his animal conservation efforts, and still stands to this day being run by his family, the Irwins. No trip to Australia is complete without visiting this thousand acre center and seeing all the good they do for the wildlife in Australia. From rescuing sea turtles, to rehabilitating koala bears, it’s an inspiring place to visit even for the most casual of animal enthusiast, and will make you want to say crikey!

Great Coral Reef, Australia

Don’t Reef Without Visiting The Reef!

            You can see it from space and from National Geographic, so why not see it in person? The Great Barrier Reef is the planet’s largest reef system, spanning across hundreds of islands and consisting of thousands of smaller reefs! It’s located in the Coral Sea just outside of Queensland, and there are several great tour packages you can take to view this natural wonder of the world and learn about its beautiful and fragile ecosystem! Though there were concerns about the state of the reef’s health that had scared the tourist industry into not visiting the reef, many scientists consider the reef in good condition for tourism and argue that the tourist industry assists their conservation and restoration efforts to undo the damages of climate change and pollution that plague parts of the reef.

            Snorkeling is a must-do activity on the reef, and is the best way to get to see its natural beauty and wonder up close. Just remember to be safe and don’t disturb the sea life. The reef is home to many endangered species of fish that you’re unlikely to ever see in an aquarium, swimming freely among the coral.

Take a Closer Look at Those Stars!

            Australia boasts many nature and zoology related sights, but it’s no slouch when it comes to the celestial! The Sydney Observatory is a popular destination for the aspiring stargazer to learn about the night sky, and peer at it through their on-site telescope. Plus, if you live north of the Equator, the stars and constellations are totally different. There are courses that teach adults everything about recent astronomy breakthroughs and discoveries, and tours during the day are free! If you’re lucky enough to book a night tour, you’ll get to see the sunset over the harbor, while viewing the stars in a way only astronomers get to!

Australia is certainly a one of a kind country when it comes to wildlife, and is bound to sate the most inquisitive minds. Any trip there is bound to stimulate the brain and ensnare curiosity, with countless species of animals unique to their ecosystem, and many ways to explore and learn. No matter if you’re young or old, there’s always something of wonder in the down under. That said, just remember that if a local tells you to look out for the drop bears, don’t look up.…

What should you pack when going to Egypt?

Want to go to Egypt where most of the time it is just desert and the sun is really hot and most of the city is just sand and windy. Egypt is an every fun place to visit if you like history and love to see and try to understand how the Egyptians lived and see the pyramids. 

We have found a website, Viv Getaway, with great travel deals. Make sure to check them out before finalizing your reservations. You will probably be glad you did. Viv Getaway

What do you need to pack when going to Egypt?

Clothes 

When packing clothes of Egypt for starts don’t pack too many clothes pack light. Pack clothes that are long sleeves and not to tick you don’t want to die from the heat. Get some comfortable shoes that you can walk in and walk on sand. Have a pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes from.

This very imported always have sunscreen with you, the sun is very hot and burns you if you don’t put sunscreen on have something long on that will also help you against the sun. the type of hat that you will need is the one that will also help protect your neck and your face it provides not to get burnt. Wear something warm at night because the nights are very cold, and also have a bottle of water so that you don’t hydrated and pass out. In winter it can be very cold, so when you go don’t go in the wintertime. 

Electronics  

You can pack a small camera to take pictures. Another option is to have your phone with you and buy the Egypt Sim card and remember to put time as it is in Egypt when you arrive there. You also must have the charger that they use in Egypt. Always have a carry-on backpack with you to hold your things safe and then you don’t have to carry everything with you. 

When going to Egypt you are going to a very hot place, Egypt has the Nile river you can cross Egypt have also a beach and loges you can stay in. so you are visiting  Egypt be aware of a dusty road, hot day, chilly evening and watch out for the sandstorm. When there is a sandstorm coming to go and look for someplace to be in, or when you are stuck in one cover your mouth and shut your eye or go and look for higher ground, or go look for cover