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| Daily Itinerary: |
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| Day 1 | Saturday, 10/2/2010 - Fly to Albuquerque / Coach to Santa Fe Upon arrival in Albuquerque, meet your tour manager and board your private motorcoach for the scenic drive to Santa Fe. Founded in 1610, Santa Fe reflects the influence of its Spanish, Pueblo Indian, and Mexican history. Enjoy an afternoon visit to the renowned Museum of International Folk Art to view the famous Girard Collection of miniature figurines. Then check in for a 3-night stay at your southwestern style hotel. Relax prior to your Get Acquainted Dinner. Couryard by Marriott - Sante Fe, NM (D)
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| Day 2 | Sunday, 10/3/2010 - Santa Fe Tour / Free Time Begin today with a tour of this capital city, and historic artist’s colony. See the State Capitol Building, Cristo Rey Church, and Old Santa Fe Trail. Stop at famous Loretto Chapel with its miraculous staircase. Next, visit the Georgia O’Keefe Museum, showcasing her many works inspired by New Mexico’s stark beauty. This afternoon is free to shop on the Plaza or visit the Palace of the Governors. Tonight, enjoy dinner and a musical show at La Casa Sena. Couryard by Marriott - Sante Fe, NM (B, D)
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| Day 3 | Monday, 10/4/2010 - Day Trip to Taos Travel north along the Rio Grande River Valley with a breathtaking panorama of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains en route to Taos. Here you'll see a colorful blend of Indian & Spanish Cultures. Visit the Taos Indian Pueblo, an authentic 600-year-old Indian Village. After free time for shopping and lunch on your own in the historic Plaza, return to Santa Fe for a free evening.
Couryard by Marriott - Sante Fe, NM (B)
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| Day 4 | Tuesday, 10/5/2010 - Santa Fe to Whites City
Travel through the desert to the 1870's crossroads town of Roswell, famous for its UFO sightings. Continue on to Whites City, arriving at your hotel for dinner, prior to your first of two trips to awe-inspiring Carlsbad Caverns. Witness the incredible sunset "bat flight" (weather permitting) as 1000’s of bats depart the cave on their hunt for food. Cavern Inn - Whites City, NM (B, D)
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| Day 5 | Wednesday, 10/6/2010 - Whites City to Ruidoso
Today, return to Carlsbad Caverns. Enjoy a tour of the 21 miles of surveyed limestone corridors. Descend in an elevator to see the "Big Room,” the most impressive of the cavern’s chambers. Next, stop in Roswell for a visit to the International UFO Museum. This afternoon, travel west through the Sacramento Mountains to “Billy the Kid” Country and the town of Ruidoso. The young gunfighter lived and fought here during the famous Lincoln County Wars of the 1870’s. Visit an Indian jewelry shop before checking into your resort hotel. Gather this evening for dinner at a local restaurant. The Lodge - Ruidoso, NM (B, D)
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| Day 6 | Thursday, 10/7/2010 - Ruidoso to Albuquerque / Balloon Glow
Begin today with a visit to White Sands National Monument to see the 60-foot snow white sand dunes. After an included lunch, motor north across the ancient “Valley of Fires” lava flows. Follow the Rio Grande River up to Albuquerque for a two-night stay. This evening attend the world-famous International Hot Air Balloon Festival to witness the spectacular "Balloon Glow" as tethered balloons are brilliantly lit by their propane gas jets. Nativo Lodge, Albuquerque, NM (B, L)
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| Day 7 | Friday, 10/8/2010 - Balloon Fiesta / Acoma
Return to the festival grounds to marvel at the spectacle of hundreds of colorful balloons in mass ascension (world’s largest with 700-900) over the skies of Albuquerque. You may wish to actively assist a crew with the launching of their balloon. Travel west to Acoma "Sky City" Indian Pueblo for a guided tour of the mesa-top fortress. The rest of the afternoon is free to explore Old Town, shop, visit San Felipe Church, or relax on your own. Tonight, reminisce during your Farewell Dinner. Nativo Lodge, Albuquerque, NM (B, D)
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| Day 8 | Saturday, 10/9/2010 - Sandia Peak / Fly Home
This morning ride the world's longest aerial tram to the top of 10,378-foot Sandia Peak. Transfer to the airport for your flight home. (B)
NOTE: This tour involves high altitudes (7000 ft in Santa Fe & 5000ft in Albuquerque). As a precaution, consult your doctor.
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