Artists, writers, and poets have long been inspired by the hues of hot pinks, deep purples, and flaming oranges that dance daily across the mystical southwestern sky. But for one week in October, hundreds of hot air balloons take flight and turn the already stunning atmosphere into a kaleidoscope of dizzying color. The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta may be the largest balloon event in the world, yet its Mass Ascension, fiery Balloon Glow, evening fireworks, and other beloved rituals aren’t the only highlights on this vibrant New Mexico vacation. Visits to artsy Santa Fe, and the pilgrimage Miracle Stairway are equally uplifting. Want more tamales? More turquoise? More peppers? More pottery? Extend your New Mexico vacation with two extra days in sunbaked Santa Fe and linger a little longer in the cafés, galleries, missions, and museums this is adobe haven is known for. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Santa Fe so you can plan your day your way.
Disclaimer: Prices listed are per person, based on double occupancy, and in USD. All promotions are valid for new bookings only, capacity controlled and valid on select dates and departures. Individual Terms and Conditions will apply to all promotions. Any promotion can be withdrawn at any time without notice. Please speak with your Pavlus Travel Planner for complete vendor terms and conditions, including eligible tour and cruise dates.
Special features included in this tour:• Experience the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta with premiere access to the Chasers Club• Attend the Mass Ascension, Balloon Glow, and After-Glow fireworks show • Enjoy a private presentation from a local balloonist and visit the International Balloon Museum• Visit the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History• Travel on the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway to Santa Fe• Visit the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center and Loretto Chapel• Guided sightseeing tour in Santa Fe including the San Miguel Mission• Globus Choice excursion in Santa Fe – included in your tour, with your choice between a guided visit to Bandelier National Monument & Museum or a New Mexico Culture Pass, with access to four museums in Santa Fe• Visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum
Notes: • The Globus Family of Brands insurance does not allow us to arrange hot air balloon rides for our guests. Hot air balloon rides should be scheduled on Day 2 of the tour and any missed sightseeing will not be refunded. Balloon Fiesta schedule of events are subject to change and will be confirmed on tour. • We encourage all guests to prebook YourChoice Excursions to ensure your preference is available. Globus Choice Excursions booked on-tour are subject to availability and vendor terms.• Guests should be prepared for sustained walking and standing. • The Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta is also included as a special departure on the Historic Trains of the Old West (Tour NCS).• The Albuquerque Airport is approximately 1.5 hours from Santa Fe depending on traffic. Schedule departure flights accordingly.
Welcome to Albuquerque! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome drink. Enjoy a special presentation from a [LF] local Balloonist who shares fascinating stories on the sport of ballooning.
LOCAL FAVORITE
UP, UP & AWAY! Get into the spirit of the Balloon Fiesta with a presentation from a local balloonist. Learn the history and culture of the fiesta, and what special things to look for during the next day’s Mass Ascension
Day 2 ALBUQUERQUE
Sunrise & Sunset Get ready for the world-famous Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta! Experience this morning’s pre-dawn Opening Ceremonies and the unforgettable Mass Balloon Ascension. Discover more balloon history and stories behind-the-scenes at the International Balloon Museum and enjoy leisure time this afternoon. This evening, catch the popular Balloon Glow, where all balloons fire up their burners and light up at the same time, and the amazing After-Glow Fireworks show. (B)
NOTE:
Schedule of activities vary from year-to-year and can be impacted by weather. Your Tour Director will be able to confirm the exact schedule of activities on tour.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
BALLOON ANIMALS Look skyward where balloon enthusiasts gather each year in Albuquerque as hundreds of hot air balloons lift off and turn the sky into cavalcade of colors. What began with just 13 hot-air balloons more than 50 years ago has grown into the largest ballooning event in the world. Explore the balloon grounds, enjoy breakfast at the Chasers Club, and visit the International Balloon Museum, dedicated to the art, culture, science, history, and spectacle of ballooning Breakfast
Day 3 ALBUQUERQUE
Ancient Arts & Modern Sciences This morning, learn about New Mexico’s legendary covert military projects, including the Manhattan Project, with a guided tour of the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History. The museum provides an objective, accessible window into the past, present, and future of nuclear science from the origins of atomic theory to modern-day advances in nuclear medicine. Celebrate the local cuisine with [LF] lunch at a traditional New Mexican restaurant. Then, visit the fascinating museum and crafts market of the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. Tonight is at leisure. (B,L)
LOCAL FAVORITE
LOCAL TASTES Be treated to an authentic New Mexico experience with a traditional southwestern lunch served in a popular Albuquerque restaurant. New Mexican dishes, from enchiladas and chili rellenos to salsa and sopapillas are served in a festive atmosphere in true local style.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORY & HERITAGE Explore the inspiring crafts and museum exhibits collectively run by the 19 New Mexico pueblos (villages). Learn about the history, background, and life of what now comprise the 19 pueblos of New Mexico BreakfastLunch
Day 4 ALBUQUERQUE–SANTA FE
Southwestern Jewels Today, travel along the [LF] Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway to Santa Fe. This scenic drive passes through the foothills of the Sandia Mountains, past wide-open spaces, and dramatic scenery. Arrive in Santa Fe, the oldest seat of government in the U.S. Experience this city up close as you embark on a city sightseeing tour, including the San Miguel Mission, the Palace of the Governors, the State Capitol, and Loretto Chapel’s “Miracle Stairway.” Next, take a captivating glimpse into the diversity of folk art from around the world. The Museum of International Folk Art in Santa Fe allows you to explore a vast collection of traditional textiles, ceramics, paintings, and other unique objects that showcase the rich cultural heritage of different regions and communities. (B)
LOCAL FAVORITE
STONY PATH The Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway covers 15,000 square miles in the heart of central New Mexico, linking Albuquerque and Santa Fe. Drive back into history through the mining towns of Golden, Madrid, and Cerrillos along this historic trail named for the aqua-hued turquoise first mined by the early Pueblo people Breakfast
Day 5 SANTA FE
Spend your day your way in Santa Fe This morning, explore more of Santa Fe with your choice of included Globus Choice excursions.
Return to Santa Fe Plaza for lunch at a celebrated local restaurant. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to explore the plaza. Join your Tour Director this evening for a festive farewell dinner featuring a traditional [LF] Mariachi performance. (B,L,D) BreakfastLunchDinner
Day 6 SANTA FE
Bones & Blossoms Today, wave goodbye to your Tour Director and Driver and spend the next two days in Santa Fe exploring on your own. Your stay includes admission to the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum. You may choose to visit the New Mexico History Museum or the Palace of the Governors, talk with the locals in the historic Santa Fe Plaza, or taste world class Southwestern food at one of the many excellent local restaurants and bars. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ARTISTIC VISION Visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum in Santa Fe to immerse yourself in the exquisitely unique paintings and artwork of this extraordinary woman. Learn of her life in the desert and her unique ability to capture the intimate beauty of flowers, bleached cattle bones, landscapes, and sky in her independent style Breakfast
Day 7 SANTA FE
Southwest Style Enjoy a free day in Santa Fe. (B)
ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE in Santa Fe with the free time to browse the beautiful crafts and jewelry along the sidewalk shops or indulge in authentic Mexican cuisine. Your Tour Director has the best tips for a great day in Santa Fe! Tap your GlobusGO mobile app for more local ideas and directions Breakfast
Day 8 SANTA FE
Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. If you choose to fly from the Albuquerque International Sunport Airport, please note it is a 1.5-hour drive from Santa Fe depending on traffic. Schedule your departing flight accordingly. (B)
Accommodations
Albuquerque
Santa Fe
DoubleTree by Hilton Albuquerque First-Class
201 Marquette Ave NW Albuquerque NM United States
Hospitality is number one at the DoubleTree in Albuquerque, where you're welcomed by the signature DoubleTree chocolate chip cookie, comfortable accommodations, modern amenities, and a superb location. Situated downtown, it's the closest hotel to the Albuquerque Convention Center and is connected by underground concourse. Complimentary shuttle service is available to shopping, dining and entertainment within a three-mile radius. Offering stunning views of the Sandia Mountains, this Albuquerque hotel provides a unique, relaxing setting in the heart of the city.
Hilton of Santa Fe Historic Plaza First-Class
100 Sandoval Street Sante Fe NM United States
Housed in a landmark 300 year old hacienda, the Hilton captures the magic of the Southwest and its rich cultural heritage in a luxury boutique hotel experience featuring modern amenities in the heart of Santa Fe's historic downtown.
Disclaimer: Prices listed are per person, based on double occupancy, and in USD. All promotions are valid for new bookings only, capacity controlled and valid on select dates and departures. Individual Terms and Conditions will apply to all promotions. Any promotion can be withdrawn at any time without notice. Please speak with your Pavlus Travel Planner for complete vendor terms and conditions, including eligible tour and cruise dates.