New Mexico
The Best of New Mexico: Santa Fe, Taos and Albuquerque
Program No. 11005RJ
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The Best of New Mexico: Santa Fe, Taos and Albuquerque
The Best of New Mexico: Santa Fe, Taos and Albuquerque
1 of 17
Participant Reviews
Based on 113 Reviews
SHOWING
New Mexico, the Land of Enchantment, doesn't disappoint. I had always wanted to go there and it was everything I had imagined and then some: beautiful, culturally diverse, historic and filled with the most amazing art.The trip was well organized and interesting, introducing us to many aspects of this beautiful place.
— Review left November 20, 2025
This program is a very moving opportunity to understand how indigenous peoples experience their heritage and culture in modern-day New Mexico and their hopes and concerns for the future.
— Review left November 17, 2025
Road Scholar is an exemplary program that takes the stress out of travel. I was delighted to be surrounded by people I would choose to be friends with. It was a rich cultural experience, and I can't wait to go on another!
— Review left November 12, 2025
The program was exceptional in that the leader and various speakers were extremely knowledgable about the subject matter they shared with us. I learned more about the history of the area and they indigenous people of New Mexico.
— Review left November 11, 2025
A great trip - fun and interesting! The mix of outside, inside and free time activities was perfect. Wonderful group leader and driver. Highly recommend this adventure.
— Review left November 11, 2025
A fantastic trip that was multi-faceted: great speakers, a variety of cultural sites, enjoyable accommodations, well-informed leaders, great pace and a wide variety of meals.
— Review left November 4, 2025
This program enables you to immerse yourself into the native Pueblo culture, history, and their experience in the backdrop of the beautiful northern NM vistas.
— Review left October 28, 2025
Saw many interesting places. The only downside was that the group size seemed too large. It would have been much better with a smaller group.
— Review left October 22, 2025
I’d experience a tough few years what with Covid and a wildfire destroying my town. I was isolating and feeling fearful. The Road Scholar trip totally changed that. I returned home a different person - more engaged with all of life. I can already see the experience showing up in my relationships and creative life.
— Review left October 9, 2025
Thw Best of New Mexico: Santa Fe, Taos and Albuquerque should be on everyone's BUCKET LIST!
— Review left October 9, 2025
Tour was interesting, educational, and fun. Made many friends but Would be better with list of participants first names and cities.
— Review left September 16, 2025
My recent trip through New Mexico was nothing short of extraordinary, a journey that touched me deeply, both spiritually and emotionally. From the vibrant energy of Albuquerque to the serene beauty of Taos and the artistic soul of Santa Fe, every stop felt like a sacred encounter with nature, culture, and history.
One of the most profound aspects of this experience was the opportunity to connect with Native American communities. I was moved by the way they cultivate their gardens with intention and care, and how their traditions are woven into everyday life with such grace and respect. It was a privilege to learn from them, and I carry their teachings with me.
The landscapes were breathtaking vast skies, dramatic mesas, and quiet moments that invited reflection. It truly felt like the land itself was speaking.
A special thank you to our tour guide, Sherryl, whose kindness, respect, and storytelling elevated every moment. She went above and beyond to ensure each person felt seen and cared for, and her deep knowledge brought every site to life with meaning and heart.
To Carry, thank you for the thoughtful planning and attention to detail that made this trip seamless and unforgettable. And to Ben, our driver, your warm personality and safe driving made every journey between destinations feel comfortable and joyful.
This wasn’t just a trip, it was a spiritual journey, and I’m deeply grateful to everyone who made it possible.
Veronica
— Review left August 18, 2025
The tour was very well organized and efficient. The itinerary offered a perfect blend of sightseeing and cultural activities, leaving enough time to relax or explore on our own. The pacing was just right, which allowed us to appreciate the cultural, spiritual and scenic beauty of the region. Everything was seamless from the airport pick up to drop off. The accommodation and dining were great and always promptly available. Our group leader was very knowledgeable about the history and culture of the region and also kept the good spirit throughout the tour. The coach driver contributed to the great atmosphere. We felt like we were in good hands the whole time.
— Review left August 12, 2025
Superb introduction to past and present Puebloan Native America in the Southwestern United States. Excellent field trips and native speakers, drummers, dancers orchestrated by group leader Sheryl Russell. Visits to Museum Hill and other Santa Fe museums including the Georgia O'keeffe and New Mexico History museums
— Review left August 12, 2025
We enjoyed the team, travel, hotels, restaurants and our host. Great experience, especially as it was our first with your crew. Cheers
— Review left July 29, 2025
The Best of New Mexico was very educational, fun and well worth the time to learn new things, visit new places and meet new friends!
— Review left July 14, 2025
What can I say about this Best of New Mexico program other than it was superb in every way! The locations we visited were frot with interesting opportunities for learning as well as incredible scenery and events.
Everything from the hotels we stayed in to the many meals we ate to the knowledgeable guide we had, all made for an unforgettable adventure that I’ll cherish for many years to come!
In addition, the friendships made with other participants were an added bonus. Folks from different geographical areas and various political, philosophical, and religious backgrounds made me appreciate the wisdom garnered by my fellow seniors in this program.
I really don’t have anything negative to say about any aspect of the program! Even our bus driver was funny and knowledgeable about the places we visited and seemed to truly care about our comfort and enjoynent!
Well done Road Scholar! Although this was my inaugural first time with the program, I’m sure I will enroll in future programs based on the experiences I had, the people I met, and the nemories I made.
Vincent Lucas
— Review left July 13, 2025
This was my first trip to New Mexico and met or exceeded my expectations. As a Breaking Bad and Dark Winds fan, seeing where these shows were made was a bonus. As an overweight 76 year old male, I was able to keep the pace.
— Review left June 26, 2025
I really enjoyed the New Mexico tour. The mixture of art, nature, cultural and historical information was wonderful. As always, the tour leader was welcoming and handled all kinds of situations with grace, knowledge, and competence. Well worth it. I like Road Scholar tours and enrollees for the emphasis on education and great value.
— Review left May 3, 2025
I cannot say enough about this experience. This was my first Road Scholars adventure. Jolene Catron is an outstanding trip host who brought in many guest speakers to explain the history and culture of northern New Mexico. She is a citizen of the Navajo Nation, with family ties to other groups. Her life experience blended well with our explorations into this state. I now appreciate Christmas style, or how to answer "Red or green?" We visited Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and Taos. The architecture is beautiful, and I came away with an understanding and appreciation of the adobe buildings.
Water is precious in New Mexico, and we learned about small farmers who rely on acequias to irrigate their crops. Funny, I grew up in an agricultural town with Acequia as a street near my high school, but I never knew what that meant. There were several personal highlights for me. First, we visited Don Bustos' farm, where he explained his preference for raising various pesticide-free crops. He explained that he could give ten to fifteen percent of his crops to nature or spend the same amount on pesticides. He chooses to be free of pesticides.
Another highlight was visiting the Bandelier National Monument and our hike exploring Frijoles Canyon. We learned about the Pueblo people and visited their dwellings carved into the canyon. The course had many stairs along the rocky path, and there were options for the level of the hike.
Be prepared to visit several museums about the area's history or the many art exhibitions. The food was outstanding. Eating sopaipillas with my meal at Rancho de Chimayo was a tasty experience. The "three sisters", corn, beans, and squash, were on many menus. I ate well and healthily.
There are many recollections I have overlooked in writing this review. I hope you enjoy this journey as much as I did.
— Review left May 3, 2025
This was an incredible trip and my first solo excursion ever! Our leader, Sherry Moon went above and beyond to make sure all 32 of us were happy. I especially enjoyed the trip to Bandelier National Monument. The hike up to the long house was challenging but I was so proud of myself that I was able to complete it! The visits to Taos and Santa Fe were a feast for the eyes! Flowers and beautiful architecture around every corner. Our tour leader used the whisper devices to narrate the walking tours. Some people had difficulty with their headsets but the one I had worked fine. During the trip we had several talks from local Pueblo members and they were informative, enjoyable and left us with a new appreciation for the people of New Mexico! The food was abundant and so very tasty! Even though you will have some meals on your own you will certainly not feel hungry!! People on the tour were very friendly and I was never left alone. During my free time in Santa Fe I joined a couple on the tour and we did some shopping and had a healthy lunch at a neat restaurant in town before heading to the Georgia O'Keefe museum. That museum is not on the trip itinerary but I highly recommend it.
The hotels were top notch! We all especially enjoyed The El Pueblo Lodge in Taos! It was not what any of us were expecting! It was one of my absolute favorite places to stay!
I recommend bringing sunscreen and a hat! I needed both! Many also used walking/hiking sticks.
I'm so happy that I chose this trip for my first Road Scholar vacation!
— Review left April 21, 2025
Having never visited New Mexico, I was looking for a good overall experience in the state in one week. This trip really provided that and more! Our group leader was very well organized, informative, and had a great sense of humor. Every city - Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and Taos - was interesting and left me wanting to return. I loved that the major focus of the trip was understanding the state through art, nature, science, and the tri-cultural mosaic of Puebloan Indian people, Spanish heritage, and Anglo-American influence. Highlights of the trip for me included the visit to Taos Pueblo, hiking at Bandelier National Monument, and being in Albuquerque for Dia de Los Muertos celebrations. Road Scholar always finds a way to go off the usual tourist path and provide exposure to people and places that form meaningful travel memories.
— Review left December 19, 2024
The Best of New Mexico: Santa Fe, Taos and Albuquerque was everything and more than I had hoped for my first visit to New Mexico. Jolene Catron, our group leader, was so knowledgeable, friendly and accommodating. She was constantly giving us information about the vistas we were passing while on the bus or the local areas we were walking through. We had a wonderful bus driver, Jerry. who was pleasant and also, quite knowledgeable about the locations we were visiting.
This trip was a meaningful, interesting and enjoyable way to learn about the Indigenous people of northern New Mexico and more.
— Review left December 6, 2024
New Mexico was on our list of states we hadn't yet visited, and this 1-week trip really exceeded our expectations in every way. The program manager, Sherry Moon, was exceptional, and had every detail covered. She always had a Plan B, and was able to modify the itinerary at the last minute to make sure we wouldn't miss anything. The pace, with 2 nights in each hotel in Albuquerque, Taos and Santa Fe, then returning to Albuquerque for 1 final night, was not too exhausting. Though we were in and out of the bus numerous times on the travel days between locations, there were interesting stops along the way and information to be imparted about the history, geology, art and culture. There were 29 in our group, and the solo women outnumbered the couples. The group really melded well together from the start.
We enjoyed several interesting lectures and tours from the program manager, as well as a member of the Tesuque Pueblo, an artist/employee at the Institute of American Indian Arts, a SOMOS storyteller, an organic farmer and a native guide at Taos Pueblo. The hotel meals were all filling and generous, but my favorite was lunch at the famous Rancho de Chimayó. If you're a wimp about hot foods, always ask for the chile on the side! There was a decent amount of free time to explore on our own in each location or just go back to the hotel to rest. The altitude was a factor which we addressed by adding electrolytes to our water bottles, staying hydrated, and keeping a moderate pace. Museum visits were plentiful, but we didn't stay overly long at any of them. The guide is experienced at knowing how long most people want to spend at a museum. There were plenty of shopping opportunities if that's your thing, and many of the women on the trip acquired turquoise and other local art pieces.
This 7-night trip was a perfect overview of this beautiful state; Santa Fe was our favorite city, and we hope to go back some time for a longer visit.
— Review left October 27, 2024
The New Mexico trip was simply wonderful and our guide Sherry Moon was exemplary - we learned so much and so enjoyed the trip and other participants. Lane Hotchkiss
— Review left October 11, 2024
This program went beyond my expectations- great leader, fascinating information and lovely co-scholars...will recommend to others.
— Review left September 29, 2024
This has been my 3rd Road Scholar tour--all have been very good.
— Review left September 25, 2024
Thorough presentation of the pueblo history, art, culture, terrain and scenery. If you are interested in art, spend some time looking online at art galleries. Great staff: leader, driver, instructors.
— Review left September 24, 2024
So many interesting, and varied activities in this program and our group leader was fabulous each and every day.
— Review left September 14, 2024
The Best of New Mexico program is fabulous. It gives you great insight into the diversity of New Mexico from the pueblo people (all the different pueblos) and their customs. It gives a lot of information about the state to include the Spanish and the religious influences. Easy to fly into and out of Albuquerque. The culture and food of New Mexico is worth seeing.
— Review left July 29, 2024
The Best of New Mexico trip was an easy way to see the towns of Albuquerque, Taos and Santa Fe. Guide Sherry Moon has a lot of experience in the area and was always ready to help. Her knowledge and perspective was very insightful. We easily moved from town to town via a large comfortable coach. No personal car is needed for the trip since the Best Western Hotel in Albuquerque picked us up and took us where we needed to go and the other 2 hotels were in the downtown areas. The field trips taught us about the kind of lives Native Americans live today and 1,000 years ago. Don't miss the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum (on your own--get ticket in advance online) in Santa Fe. Definitely needed an extra day in Santa Fe to see more museums, Canyon Road art galleries, etc. Don Bustos' farm trip was way more enlightening than you would think! Some museums were closed in Taos on Tuesday when we were visiting, so I feel like I had more time there than needed.
— Review left June 17, 2024
This trip was a great opportunity to learn about many aspects of northern New Mexico and gave me an appreciation for the history of the region and the challenges and rewards of living here.
— Review left June 16, 2024
This trip to tour New Mexico fulfilled my expectations to learn more about the people, cultures and history of this part of the southwest.
— Review left May 15, 2024
Traveling to New Mexico is traveling to a very important part of the our US history. This program will take you to ancient times, modern architecture, and an brings and example of how culture and art as a bridging gap. The program includes an awesome Guide (indigenous) and a panel of experts from other cultures.
— Review left May 14, 2024
Great for those who want to see beautiful and historically interesting places and learn more about them. Food and accommodations were exceptional, as was our tour guide Jolene Catron.
— Review left May 14, 2024
I was enchanted with my Best of New Mexico adventure. The guide was exceptional! Ready for my next trip.
— Review left May 13, 2024
This was my fifth RoadScholar adventure and one of my best! I am giving it a 10 and more as the best part of this RoadScholar adventure were the professional, caring and fantastic tour guide Jolene and the professional, informative and safety first bus driver Ben. These two individuals made this RoadScholar The Best of New Mexico one of my best trips ever! All of us learned so much and were educated in the beauty and the varied and important history of New Mexico to the world. This is why five of us from Atlanta came on this adventure. These two guides shared their love of New Mexico with us and both went above and beyond to make sure we all had a safe and wonderful time! There were other instructors as well during this adventure sharing their respective information and they were fantastic as well! All the hotels, the food, the scenery, the temperature, the guiding and bus driving are worth every penny! For those considering this trip, please go to the RS website and enroll now. Thank you RS for providing one of the best RS adventures ever and enriching my life in my retirement years!
— Review left May 12, 2024
Couldn’t have imagined a more perfect first trip with RS as a solo traveler. Scott was an excellent tour guide with his knowledge, humor and attention to logistics. Trip was packed with informative talks, short walks and visits to places which spanned New Mexico’s history and culture guided by excellent local experts along the way.
— Review left April 12, 2024
It was a fantastic trip and Scott was an excellent guide. I learned so much about the state, its people and its cultures. The diversity of the activities was excellent and it had just the right amount of free time.
— Review left March 24, 2024
It was a fun experience enhanced by a great guide.
— Review left March 17, 2024
Wonderful way to see this wonderful state. We had never been to New Mexico and this trip was so much fun and we had a great leader in Sheryl and a great group of Road Scholars. Each city was unique and offered a great example of what makes New Mexico unlike any other state. Oh, and the food was fantastic.
— Review left November 25, 2023
My first trip to New Mexico. An enjoyable trip which told us about the original natives, the Spanish, the United States Conquest, and the Manhattan Project.
— Review left November 19, 2023
This program was a great way to learn about the cultures of New Mexico in depth. Our leader Sherry was organized and always positive. I would have opted for a smaller group (we had 34) although most were friendly and on time! We had a great bus driver and hotel personnel were very accommodating. I learned a wealth of information about the Southwest, past and present and future. It is a different world from the Midwest and there is plenty of sunshine!
— Review left November 19, 2023
We had a wonderful time on this tour. The combination of fabulous scenery, great program content and activity, excellent leadership, and getting to see and learn about places we'd never visited before provided an unforgetable week. We would do another Road Scholar tour without question! Billy and Brenda Gee
— Review left November 15, 2023
Who knew that so much of interest can be drawn out in six days in New Mexico? Our superb guide Sherry amply shared her love of the state by shepherding us through ancient canyon dwellings, art museums and native American history and culture. And then there was the scoop on which towns are refuges for movie stars. A full and colorful experience.
— Review left November 5, 2023
WONDERFUL TRIP IN NORTHERN NEW MEXICO, learned about the history & indigenous people, Spanish occupation, to the present day!
— Review left October 31, 2023
thoroughly enjoyed the program and sights,particularly the time to talk to locals
— Review left October 23, 2023
If you are looking for a learning experience coupled with travel and meeting new people, then this is it!
— Review left October 3, 2023
Having completed four RS programs, it is tempting to rate them, but each program is unique, and I have never been disappointed. This on-the-go program with 34 cooperative participants, impressively led by Vanetta Perry, I can highly recommend.
— Review left October 2, 2023
If you want a good taste of New Mexico cultures and history, as well as experience the state's natural beauty and signature cities, take the Best of New Mexico - Santa Fe, Taos, Albuquerque tour. Try to book with Tour Leader, Scott Aarestad. He's the BEST!!! You're sure to have a great experience.
— Review left September 29, 2023
This was our first Road Scholar program and it definitely met our expectations. We were so fortunate to have Colleen Patrick as our group leader. She is knowledgeable, caring, and obviously loves what she does. This program gave us great insight into Albuquerque, Taos, Santa Fe, and Los Alamos. Our favorite stops were the exploration of the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, our walking tour Santa Fe and our hike at the Bandelier National Monument. You will not be disappointed if you decide to take this trip.
Alan and Andrea
— Review left September 27, 2023
Road Scholar really lives up to its name -- taking life-long learners on the road to go beyond the typical tourist experience. We can do the tourist thing on our own. But we can't do the personal, in-depth extras that we get on a Road Scholar trip. We are more like curious, engaged visitors than tourists. This seems to be the attitude of the kind of person who signs up for a Road Scholar trip, which enhances the experience for all of us. In addition, our group leader was friendly, personable, knowledgeable, calm in the face of unexpected difficulties, and a genuinely nice person. This was my first Road Scholar trip but not, I'm sure, my last.
— Review left September 24, 2023
The Best of New Mexico: Santa Fe, Taos and Albuquerque is a wonderful way to experience the History and Culture of those cities. You will not be disappointed. I hope you will be lucky enough to get Scott Aarestad as your group leader. He is wonderful!
— Review left September 19, 2023
My first Road Scholar trip to New Mexico far exceeded my expectations of a guided tour. Our group leader was an incredible wealth of information on the history, culture, languages and the groups of people who call this unique land home. The accommodations, food and efficiency of this tour really enhanced my visit. I would not have gained the insight I did had I traveled on my own. Our scheduled instructors and guides came with such passion and character, I will not soon forget this trip. I would highly recommend visiting New Mexico with Road Scholar. If you happen to have Colleen as a tour guide, consider yourself lucky, she bought it all to life!
— Review left August 31, 2023
I gained a new perspective on New Mexico's history and native people through informative lectures, first-hand experiences and stories told by native people. Our field trips were outstanding!
— Review left August 14, 2023
In The Best of New Mexico, the pictures in my sixth grade geography book seemed to come alive as I traveled through the state and met Pueblo Indians and peeked into ancient cliff dwellings. I learned about the struggles of early Spanish settlers and the Americans who followed them. Learning about the art, food, and religious life of each group and how they blended is fascinating.
— Review left August 12, 2023
This trip was one of the best Domestic Road Scholar trips I have taken and this is my 13th trip with the company. Sheryl Russell is so knowledgeable, with a great sense of humor, tact, professional, and very diplomatic. The tour was timed well and the bus driver was excellent even on those narrow curvy roads through the mountains. The hotels were all great and all the field trips were excellent.
— Review left May 30, 2023
wonderful program, i highly recommend it
— Review left May 28, 2023
Extraordinary program and leader (Vannetta Perry). This program provided a deep understanding of New Mexican history which came alive as we visited Taos, Santa Fe and Albuquerque. Lodging, food, and transportation were the best. Excellent value with lasting memories.
— Review left May 24, 2023
Awesome glimpse in the life and history of Northern New Mexico. Our driver Dennis and tour guide Vanetta made the trip extra special. The history of New New Mexico was fascinating. And after visting Los Alamos, I realized how little I knew about their mission and the Manhattan project. Can't wait to see the movie Oppenheimer that is coming out soon so I can learn more.
— Review left May 23, 2023
This was my first trip with Road Scholar. My sister (48) and I (54) have heard great things from my mom, who has been on several trips, so we thought it would be fun to go together. As an introvert, I was a little nervous about being on a trip with 30ish other people, but my fears were alleviated as soon as I got on the hotel shuttle from the airport. I met the delightful Ruby and we ended up going to lunch together and trying our first chile and sopaipillas.
It was such a revelation to me to meet so many well traveled, curious, and adventurous people! Everyone had funny stories to share and it felt like we all truly cared about each other, almost from the very first day.
I cannot say enough about our guide, Vannetta Perry. I don't know when this woman sleeps, because she was truly available to us 24/7, whether answering random questions about water rights and plant life or resolving issues with hotel rooms. She never seemed annoyed or flustered when things didn't go as planned, and approached every challenge with kindness, enthusiasm, and humor. She made sure folks with food allergies got appropriate food and that we all drank lots of water. It didn't feel like we had a tour guide; it felt like we had a super cool friend who loved sharing knowledge about the state and people she clearly loves.
I feel like I have just scratched the surface in learning about the history, peoples, art, architecture, plants and wildlife of New Mexico. I want to go back! I want to read all the books and share info with my friends and family.
The schedule was really well planned, with "rest" days in between the busier, more active days of hiking and driving. the food was excellent. The speakers and field trips were outstanding. I loved Cisco's stories and the visit to Don Bustos' farm was unique and thought-provoking. My overall takeaway is that community is what will save us. We need to work together locally and globally. What a great message. Thank you!
— Review left May 16, 2023
Vanetta, our tour leader was knowledgeable and passionate about New Mexico. She treated everyone on the tour with the same courtesy and good humor. I leaned a great deal about this part of the country from her and from the organic farmer, Native American speaker, river guide story teller and architect. The food was fantastic. I've made new friends with the other participants and look forward to keeping in touch with them. All in all I can not recommend this program highly enough.
— Review left May 15, 2023
I found this program to be one of the better Road Scholar programs I have participated in. A large part of that was the leader, Scott and the size of the group as well as the other group poarticipant's.
— Review left April 16, 2023
Wonderful immersion in the color, art, creativity, and rich history of Santa Fe and Taos. As usual Road Scholar offered a terrific opportunity to experience and learn about a unique place in the company of other interested and interesting people. Thank you!
— Review left November 15, 2022
This program was all it promised and more!
— Review left November 11, 2022
The High Deserts of New Mexico are well worth the price.
— Review left November 9, 2022
This program provided an immersion in the Geography, History and Culture of New Mexico past and present.
— Review left November 8, 2022
Lovely and informative trip with exposure to the peoples of New Mexico.
— Review left October 27, 2022
This program truly is the best of these three cities. If you have never been to New Mexico and are looking for a great introduction or are a regular visitor looking for a more in-depth experience, this is a wonderful way to experience these all three.
— Review left October 18, 2022
Had a wonderful time on “The Best of New Mexico:Santa Fe, Taos and Albuquerque.
— Review left September 27, 2022
New Mexico truly is the "land of enchantment." Thanks for this phenomenal week filled with history, culture, art, architecture, geography, Native traditions, and more.
— Review left September 27, 2022
The Best of New Mexico was a wonderful tour that within one week revealed past and present information on Albuquerque, Taos and Santa Fe. I highly recommend Road Scholar for their fabulous guide and learning experience.
— Review left September 19, 2022
Great value! Awe-inspiring scenery and a thorough introduction about the Northern New Mexico Native American Culture.
— Review left September 19, 2022
This tour was sheer perfection in the degree of enlightenment, education, thoughtfulness, kindness and philosophy. All speakers and leaders were extremely knowledgeable, but approachable. Road Scholar takes great care of its participants.
— Review left September 18, 2022
This program will give you a view of northern New Mexico, it's people, history and scenic beauty.
— Review left August 22, 2022
This was a great trip! Scott, our group leader was entertaining, helpful and kept his cool despite having to deal with some illness within the group, himself included. He also offered additional short walks to different places on our off time. I came away with a better understanding of the mix of cultures within New Mexico and issues they face. Also why people love this region. Those skies go on forever!
The Santa Fe Drury and the Don Fernando de Taos were great hotels, the Albuquerque Best Western needs some updating and it’s a bit of a walk from Old Town in the NM heat, but the staff was super friendly and helpful. One suggestion would be to shorten the time in the Millicent Rogers museum, it was too small for a 2 hour window. Other museums could’ve used more time. This was a well paced, entertaining and educational trip.
— Review left August 22, 2022
This program exceeded my expectations...I plan to go another Road Scholar trip.
— Review left July 22, 2022
Excellent program. I learned a lot and had a great time.
— Review left July 18, 2022
Discovering New Mexico has always been on my personal bucket list. Experiencing it through professional leadership and local feet-on-the-ground coordination made the journey of the Best of New Mexico: Santa Fe, Taos and Alburquerque a memorable adventure shared with the best guide, and new friends!
— Review left May 19, 2022
This was a wonderful trip that exceeded my expectations! I highly recommend it and I will definitely travel with Road Scholar again.
— Review left May 14, 2022
First non-family trip since COVID stopped all travel. It was good to be on the road again...learning and experiencing first-hand the sights, sounds and foods of the area. Scott Aarestad was exceptional. His knowledge of the area, personality and follow through kept us all engaged and ‘in the flow’ of the moment. Our bus driver, Dennis, was one of the best. The local experts each provided unique perspectives about New Mexico. I would recommend this program for someone wanting an overview of New Mexico.
— Review left May 8, 2022
Road Scholar programs offer an outstanding learning experience.
— Review left May 2, 2022
This was my first Road Scholar trip, and it definitely won't be my last. The program was well paced, comprehensive, and interesting. Much of the credit goes to Scott Aarestad, our group leader. He is beyond exceptional.
If I were to suggest any changes, it would be to skip the day in Albuquerque and spend the time in either Taos or Santa Fe.
— Review left May 2, 2022
A part of America that is unique and memorable.
— Review left April 26, 2022
Throughly enjoyed and guide was exceptional. highly recommend
— Review left April 24, 2022
After two years of not being able to travel, the trip rekindled our love for travel, visiting new places, and meeting new people. The beautiful part of this trip at this particular time was that we were with 33 people throughout the united states who also were anxious to travel and to learn. I have met three new people who I will stay in touch, for they were interested to en joy travel as much as Fran and I. We have already booked our next trip for this fall and we are going to Nova Scotia, the land where my mother was born.
— Review left April 2, 2022
Our trip provided amazing insights into pueblo culture and Native American spirituality. Hiking Frijoles Canyon at Bandalier National Monument provided a stunning outdoor experience, a look up into ancient cliff dwellings and down into ancient kivas, and past the remnants of what had once been villages. The surrounding cliffs were awe-inspiring. I came away from this week with a deeper appreciation for the tens of thousands of years that Native Americans have lived on these lands, and a more genuine understanding of the sacredness with which they regard all that surrounds them. Renewed respect is an understatement. What a wonderful week!
— Review left November 1, 2021
If you like museums and learning about the Pueblo Native Americans, you'll love this tour. Hope you get Mark Utgaard for your guide. He's great!
— Review left October 30, 2021
New Mexico: the people,culture, art and the beauty of the land. Wonderful Road Scholar tour with the perfect balance of learning, laughter and eye candy!
— Review left October 24, 2021
A wonderful learning experience.
— Review left October 24, 2021
It tends to frequently lock up or load very slowly when you move from page to page
— Review left October 11, 2021
Was a very good way to become informed about the natives and history of the lower midwest.
— Review left October 11, 2021
What a unique part of the US! Lots of surprises and chance to see the world through different lenses. A wonderful experience.
— Review left October 10, 2021
Learned a lot about New Mexico. Such an interesting state in the United States. Definitely broadened my perspective and experience. Really enjoyed learning about the Puebloans.
— Review left October 6, 2021
I thought the program was as advertised and I learned a lot of history of the region.
— Review left September 21, 2021
Excellent and fun immersion in the Northern New Mexico history, culture and environment
— Review left September 19, 2021
Great to have been back on the road. Our awesome trip leader made for a perfect experience. I am currently researching my points of special interest to learn more about what I learned. Also planning my next Road Scholar tour while remaining grateful for the happy memories of beautiful New Mexico.
— Review left August 22, 2021
The trip to New Mexico with Road Scholar was both instructional and enriching. Road Scholar did an outstanding job with organizing and execution a fine experience for me. I would recommend anyone to look into taking this trip if possible.
— Review left August 16, 2021
Fascinating journey through New Mexico! This Road Scholar trip was so diverse covering New Mexican history, foods, arts,architecture, religion,and geography in an enjoyable way. The guide was exceptional and made our trip one that I would highly recommend.
— Review left August 15, 2021
The trip is very well planned to take in a variety of sights as a group and also allow for free time. Our guide Mark was so knowledgeable about history of the area, politics, and really almost anything someone wanted to know—he did a great job of leading the trip without being overly directive. I loved Bandelier National Park, the visit to San Idelfonso, and the Museum of Native American Culture. The restaurants were so good—no chain type places. Motels were nice in Albuquerque and Santa Fe but not so great in Taos. All in all a very good trip. Just wish we could have gone to the last Pueblo, but COVID19 intervened!
— Review left April 4, 2020
I attended the November 2019 “The Best of New Mexico” trip with a girlfriend. We had such a good time. Met so many nice people, learned a lot about the history and culture of Northern New Mexico, even had a beautiful snow storm in Santa Fe! My favorite things on this trip were visiting the Native American Pueblo, exploring Bandelier National Monument and having a traditional meal at a Pueblo family home. This was my first trip to New Mexico and found it so interesting. It was so relaxing to just sit back and let our expert driver do the driving. Great trip!!
— Review left March 5, 2020
EXCEPTIONAL SAMPLER OF NM!!
— Review left December 28, 2019
This was my seventh RS trip. I was in the mood to see more of our own country and New Mexico was my choice. I have been there a couple of times before but only a fast and vague visit and I wanted to learn more about the area. The area is beautiful. Albuquerque has seen some hard times, but people were friendly and I felt safe going out alone one night to see a movie. Speaking of movies, there is a burgeoning movie and tv filming business in Albuquerque. Remember Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul? They were filmed there.
Santa Fe and Taos!! What more can I say. The museums are gorgeous, the mountains beautiful and a bonus for me (this Florida gal) was a snowstorm in Santa Fe. The kind of snow that makes great snowballs and snow people. Santa Fe has the great adobe houses and Taos has a Pueblo to visit that is an historical site. We visited a weaver with amazing and expensive rugs who demonstrated on his loom that had been his father's. It was a 4th generation business as now the great granddaughter is working there as well. We had lovely meals and tried New Mexican food, which is different from Mexican. Our lodgings were fine especially in Santa Fe at the Drury Inn. Our leader, Dan, a native of Santa Fe, was very knowledgeable and informative.
A highlight for me was Los Alamos. Of course the controversy over the bombing of Japan is always debated and there was a lot of information in that town. If you have never visited this part of our country, take this trip with Road Scholar.
— Review left December 11, 2019
My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed this program, found it to be quite educational and very worthwhile. We think the length of 6 days to be the right amount of timme.
— Review left November 3, 2019
If you're interested in the culture and history of the desert Southwest, then this is the trip for you! Seeing the sights in person of the first "Americans" was truly memorable and gave me a much better understanding of the beginnings of our country as we know it today. The landscape and architecture of this area is stunning, as well. A win-win!
— Review left July 16, 2019
Just finished doing this trip and have to admit I had an amazing time. We had a group of about 30 participants and it really was nice how well we all got along. Let's start about the most important part of any of these trips, the Group Leader, Mark was amazing, his lectures were interesting and his insights on stops that we visited were helpful. Hotels were very nice in both Albuquerque and Santa Fe, the lodge in Taos was built in 1912 and really is very nice, not like a modern hotel, but a place I would easily visit again as it also gave a very nice feel to the trip. Provided breakfast were all hotel/lodge buffets, all good. All other provided meals were outstanding, loved the Standard Diner, Terra Cotta Bistro are standouts. You have three dinners on your own but it really could be one as the hotel in Santa Fe offer an evening kickoff that offers 3 drinks and a modest dinner buffet. This trip is listed as "Keep the pace" , and it is rated accurately, some days are more tiring than others but all are well worth it.
— Review left July 14, 2019
Our Road Scholar program was wonderful. My husband and I learned a lot, saw beautiful parts of our country, and met some great people. We would do it again.
— Review left May 27, 2019
A must experience to seeing and understanding New Mexico and its culture. Should be on one's "Bucket List"
— Review left May 22, 2019
This tour was truly one of the best travel experiences I have had. I look forward to many adventures with Road Scholar in the future!
— Review left May 20, 2019
Our tour of Albuquerque, SantaFe and Taos was delightful. We learned so much and met such interesting, fun people!
— Review left May 1, 2019
This program "The Best of New Mexico" gave me a whole new appreciation of the American Experience in the Southwest. Being from the South I had little understanding of the Native American Indian/Spanish explorers/Mexican natives interplay and their cultures. The program was truly enlightening to me.
— Review left April 28, 2019
The program covers the history of New Mexico and takes you to some of the places where it happened. If you like history, this program is for you.
— Review left April 16, 2019
I enjoyed everything in the three towns we visited: the ambience, the history, the culture and the fun. It was a trip to remember!
— Review left April 8, 2019