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New Mexico

Highlights of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

Program No. 10427RJ
Learn the history, science and art of ballooning as you experience the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, explore the city’s unique museums and Indian Pueblo Cultural Center.
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Start
Festivals, Misc.Most Popular
Length
5 days
Rating (4.91)
Activity Level
Starts at
1,999
Program
At a Glance
Duration
5 days
Program Begins
Albuquerque
Program Concludes
Albuquerque
Meals
10 ( 4B, 2L, 4D )
Activity Level
Experience the best of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, study the history of hot-air ballooning and feel the excitement of the Balloon Ascensions during several visits to the Balloon Fiesta Park. Learn how balloons are made and the science behind flying by a local expert and pilot. Discover why Albuquerque is such a perfect place for this premier ballooning event.
Best of all, you'll...
  • Watch the pilots and their crews prepare huge and intricately constructed balloons for inflation and flight.
  • Enjoy balloons from countries around the world.
  • Learn about the history and science of ballooning in an exciting firsthand experience.
View Full Itinerary
General Notes
This is a large group program; participants will be separated into smaller groups for some activities. Small group assignments will be made approximately one month prior to the program start date. If you are traveling with companions who are not your roommate and you would like to be grouped together, please list their names on your “Personal Information & Preferences” in your Road Scholar “My Account” page.” Approximately two weeks prior to the program departure you will receive an email with your group assignment and Group Leader information.
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John Layton
John Layton has visited 70+ countries and 48 states during more than 30 years in the travel industry. “As a career, travel is all I know and I’ve been lucky that I have never had a job I didn't love.” After many years sailing the seas as a cruise director, John is now a flight attendant for JetBlue, a travel blogger, and a group leader for Road Scholar. He has led Road Scholar programs throughout Florida, around Cuba, and on the Great Lakes.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
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Sheryl Russell
Sheryl Russell was born to a farming family in Kansas. At the University of Kansas, she studied education in theatre and English literature, followed by decades of work in retail and communications systems in Dallas, New York City, and the California Bay area. Sheryl felt that she had “come home" when she moved to Santa Fe. Here she found a cultural diversity, architectural style, and historic richness that supported the next 30 years of leading explorations and study of native Southwest cultures and their history.
Profile Image of Nolan Hines
Nolan Hines
Nolan Hines is a native Ohioan, born on a farm just south of Columbus. He attended Ohio State University intending to become a veterinarian, then became involved in singing and theatre activities. He spent eight years on the ships of Holland America Line as an entertainer, excursion assistant, and cruise director, then four years aboard The American Queen steamboat. Nolan now lives in Florida and, since 2017, has enjoyed discovering the treasures of new places and helping participants to enjoy cultural highlights with Road Scholar.
Activity Level
On Your Feet
Walking up to two miles over uneven grass and paved surfaces in the dark at Balloon Fiesta Park; climb a flight of stairs. Standing up to two hours on field trips. Elevations of 5,300 feet.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List (6 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
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Peace of Mind

We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. That’s why we go to the ends of the earth to give you peace of mind, from the moment you enroll until the day you return home.

Assurance Plan

Road Scholar's continued commitment to our participants and their well-being is exemplified whether participating on a program in the United States or on one of our International programs, every Road Scholar participant receives coverage under our Road Scholar Assurance Plan.

Want to Protect Your Investment?

Road Scholar is pleased to offer its Trip Protection Plan as a way to protect your program investment. You may purchase this optional trip protection plan when enrolling in your program.

Sustainable Travel

We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Read about our commitment to a more sustainable planet.

  • Peace of Mind

    We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. That’s why we go to the ends of the earth to give you peace of mind, from the moment you enroll until the day you return home.

  • Assurance Plan

    Road Scholar's continued commitment to our participants and their well-being is exemplified whether participating on a program in the United States or on one of our International programs, every Road Scholar participant receives coverage under our Road Scholar Assurance Plan.

  • Want to Protect Your Investment?

    Road Scholar is pleased to offer its Trip Protection Plan as a way to protect your program investment. You may purchase this optional trip protection plan when enrolling in your program.

  • Sustainable Travel

    We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Read about our commitment to a more sustainable planet.