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Taos: a magical show
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Before we embarked upon our journey to Taos, New Mexico, we were often told of its magical energy. Always being the skeptic of ‘oh wow’ comments, I shrugged the reviews and set out to discover Taos on my own. Well, now I can join the ranks of all those others and confirm, Taos provides a magical show for the soul.
Nestled high up in the heart of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of northern New Mexico, Taos is a thriving and energetic minded community of Native Americans, artists, outdoor enthusiasts, and a great mix of people from all over the world. With a 2 ½ hour flight from San Francisco to Albuquerque and an additional 129 mile drive to Taos, you will be happy you finally reached this idyllic town. (Time Saving Tip: If affordable non-stop flights can be found to Santa Fe, then take them, for it is less than an hour’s drive to Taos from SAF.) No matter the route taken, the final destination is well worth the travels.
Arriving at the El Monte Sagrado was delightful surprise. I had no idea what to expect when I made the hotel reservation, but this new eco-resort went beyond my expectations. From the moment we checked in, with fresh-squeezed iced lemonade in our hands, our stay was over-the-top with every need and want handled with the utmost care and happiness by the extremely kind and friendly staff. The rooms are exquisitely decorated with artifacts from all over the world, and the 4-fixture bathrooms are spacious and divine. Your room is a spa oasis, yet if you decide to leave its splendor, the resort is home to an incredible state-of-the art spa that includes everything from facials and massages to acupuncture and Reiki, and the cherry on top – a gorgeous swimming pool. We enjoyed the food so much, that we ate almost every meal there (restaurant and room service equally tasty). The talented chef prepared delicious dishes with local (and mostly organic) fare. If there were not so many great things to experience in Taos, one could easily make a case for not leaving this glorious resort.
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Visiting the Taos Pueblo is a must. It is the only living Native American community designated as a National Historic Landmark with multi-storied adobe buildings that have been continuously inhabited for over 1000 years. Handmade pottery, jewelry and native baked goods are made by local artisans and sold at many of the individually owned shops within the Pueblo. The artisans are inspired by timeless traditions. The architecture and history of the Taos Pueblo offers a deep appreciation of those who inhabited this great land years before it was discovered by outsiders. It is a walking tour, so do come prepared to walk.
The vast clear open sky of the Southwest has always provided breath-taking vistas. Taos provides spectacular sunsets with colors both bright and soft encompassing the entire horizon far beyond the big river and to the west. We chose to enjoy one of these magnificent sunsets at the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, a cantilever truss bridge spanning across the Rio Grande Gorge. It is the fifth highest bridge in the United States and an architectural marvel for its steel construction. For me, it offered an uninterrupted vista viewing of the sun’s last breath of the day.
Art plays a vital role in Taos history as well as present day. Many great artists from all over the world have migrated to this magical town. The landscapes, colorful history, and native spirit provides a backdrop of inspiration. Nicolai Fechin, a Russian artist, built his home and studio here, and it is now the Taos Art Museum. It is dedicated to the art of the early twentieth century Taos. Many of Fechin’s art works can be seen here, and they are beautiful stories within themselves.
The magic is in the air and among the people. You can sense it, feel it in the wind, see it in the sunsets. It captures your soul and stirs a passion within. Inspiration surrounds you causing an artist’s heart to beat to the guiding strokes of his brush, or the writing trail of his thoughts, or the rhythm of his songs. Taos is a magic show that will linger in your soul and etch a place in your heart that will hopefully last until your journey brings you back again to recharge from the energy of this mystical town.
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