Certified Travel Associate (CTA) and Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) Certifications
Preparing for the TAP (Travel Agent Proficiency) Test
Choosing the Right Host Agency
Benefits of Working with a Host Agency
Resources and Support Provided by Host Agencies
Comparing Different Host Agencies in New Mexico
Training and Education
Online Training Courses and Programs
Comprehensive Training Programs Offered by Host Agencies
Ongoing Training and Advanced Certifications
Hospitality and Tourism Degree Programs as Additional Education
Building Your Business
Building a Client Base Through Networking and Marketing
Leveraging Local Knowledge to Plan Trips in New Mexico
Using Social Media and Email Marketing Effectively
Attending Industry Events and Conferences
Earning Money as a Travel Agent
Commission-Based Earnings from Travel Bookings
Planning Fees and Additional Revenue Streams
Flexible Scheduling and Income Potential
Resources and Tools for Success
Technology Platforms and Booking Systems
Marketing Tools and Community Support
Subscription Plans and Associated Costs
How to Become a Travel Agent in New Mexico
Becoming a travel agent in New Mexico can be a rewarding and exciting career path, especially given the state's rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. As the travel and tourism industry continues to grow, with a focus on domestic leisure travel and safe, drive-market destinations, the demand for skilled and knowledgeable travel agents is on the rise.
To embark on this journey, it is crucial to understand the role of a travel agent. A travel agent's typical duties include researching and planning travel itineraries, liaising between clients and travel providers, and arranging tour packages. These responsibilities require a strong foundation in industry knowledge and excellent customer service skills.
The New Mexico travel agent industry, though stable, offers around 20 annual job openings primarily due to replacements. This stability presents a promising landscape for aspiring travel agents looking to make their mark.
Before diving into the specifics of becoming a travel agent, it is important to assess your readiness to start a business. This involves defining your business model, understanding your product offerings, and researching your customer base. Resources such as the Small Business Administration (SBA), Small Business Development Centers (SBDC), and other local business support organizations can provide valuable guidance and assistance.
In New Mexico, aspiring travel agents can benefit from a variety of training programs. These include online courses, local programs, and specialized training that offer niche and destination-specific knowledge. Organizations like The Travel Institute provide certifications that can significantly enhance your marketability as a travel agent.
As you prepare to launch your career, remember that continuous learning, networking, and hard work are key to success. With the right mindset and resources, you can navigate the exciting world of being a travel agent in New Mexico and build a fulfilling and lucrative career.
Understanding the Role of a Travel Agent
Key Responsibilities of a Travel Agent
A travel agent's role is multifaceted and demanding, yet highly rewarding. The key responsibilities include researching and planning travel itineraries tailored to clients' preferences and budgets. This involves finding the best flights, accommodations, and activities that align with the client's needs. Travel agents also liaise between clients and travel providers, ensuring smooth communication and resolving any issues that may arise during the travel planning process.
Another critical aspect of a travel agent's job is arranging tour packages. This can range from simple weekend getaways to complex, multi-destination trips. Travel agents must also handle travel-related paperwork, such as processing travel documents, managing bookings, and keeping records of client transactions.
Types of Travel Arrangements and Bookings
Travel agents specialize in various types of travel arrangements, including leisure travel, corporate travel, and group travel. For leisure travel, agents plan vacations, honeymoons, and family trips, often incorporating activities like sightseeing tours, dining recommendations, and recreational activities. Corporate travel involves arranging business trips, conferences, and meetings, ensuring that all logistical details are taken care of efficiently.
Group travel is another significant area, where agents organize trips for larger groups, such as school field trips, sports teams, or social clubs. This requires meticulous planning to ensure that all members of the group have a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Client Interaction and Customer Service
Client interaction is at the heart of a travel agent's role. Providing exceptional customer service is crucial for building trust and loyalty with clients. Travel agents must be adept at understanding clients' preferences, addressing their concerns, and offering personalized recommendations to enhance their travel experiences.
A good travel agent is not just a booker of flights and hotels; they are a travel consultant who can offer valuable insights, local knowledge, and personalized service that makes the travel experience unique and memorable.
In New Mexico, leveraging local knowledge can be particularly advantageous. Travel agents can plan trips to local attractions like Albuquerque's historic sites and White Sands National Park, providing clients with an insider's perspective that enhances their travel experience.
By combining industry knowledge with excellent customer service skills, travel agents can create a positive and memorable experience for their clients, fostering long-term relationships and repeat business.
Legal Requirements and Certifications
Obtaining an IATA Number
To become a travel agent in New Mexico, one of the primary legal requirements is obtaining an IATA (International Air Transport Association) number. This unique identifier is essential for conducting business as a travel business. Most travel advisors achieve this by joining a host business, which provides access to the IATA number. This number enables the business to earn commissions on the travel bookings made for clients.
Importance of Host Agencies in New Mexico
Host agencies play a crucial role in the career of a travel agent in New Mexico. These agencies provide a range of resources, including access to booking systems, partner programs, marketing support, and comprehensive training. A host business also offers the necessary IATA number, which is vital for earning commissions on travel bookings. For instance, host agencies like Fora offer a one-stop shop with everything needed to get started with a travel advisor business.
A host business acts as a backbone for independent travel agents, offering the tools and support necessary to succeed in the industry.
Certified Travel Associate (CTA) and Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) Certifications
While not mandatory, certifications such as the Certified Travel Associate (CTA) and Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) can significantly enhance your credibility and marketability as a travel agent. These certifications are offered by The Travel Institute and demonstrate a high level of professionalism and expertise in the field. The CTA certification is an excellent starting point, while the CTC certification is more advanced and requires additional experience and knowledge.
Certifications for Travel Agents
Certification
Description
CTA (Certified Travel Associate)
An entry-level certification that covers the basics of the travel industry.
CTC (Certified Travel Counselor)
An advanced certification requiring more experience and knowledge, reflecting a higher level of expertise.
Preparing for the TAP (Travel Agent Proficiency) Test
The Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) Test is another important certification that can bolster your career as a travel agent. Administered by the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA), this test assesses your skills and knowledge in areas such as travel agent basics, customer service, and booking systems. Preparing for the TAP Test involves thorough study and practice, often facilitated by the training programs offered by host agencies or travel schools.
Study Plan:
- Review Industry Terminology
- Practice Booking Systems
- Focus on Customer Service Techniques
- Take Practice Exams
TIP: Many host agencies, such as LuxRally Travel, offer comprehensive training courses that include practical exams and feedback sessions to help you prepare for the TAP Test.
Choosing the Right Host Agency
Benefits of Working with a Host Agency
Working with a host business is a crucial step for aspiring travel agents in New Mexico. One of the primary benefits is gaining access to an IATA number, a unique identifier that allows the business to conduct business and earn commissions on travel bookings. Host agencies like Fora and LuxRally Travel provide this essential resource, enabling you to operate as a legitimate travel agent.
A host business also offers a range of other benefits, including access to booking systems and partner programs, which are vital for managing client bookings efficiently. Additionally, host agencies provide marketing support, helping you to promote your services and attract clients. This comprehensive support system is designed to help you succeed in the competitive travel industry.
Resources and Support Provided by Host Agencies
Host agencies in New Mexico offer a wealth of resources and support to help you launch and grow your travel agent business. These resources include comprehensive training programs that cover everything from the basics of the travel industry to advanced sales and marketing techniques. For example, LuxRally Travel's free online training course includes over 15 hours of video content and extensive text materials, covering topics such as travel agent basics, leisure and group bookings, and how to provide concierge services to clients.
In addition to training, host agencies provide access to Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems and proprietary booking engines, such as FastBook, which simplify the process of managing client bookings and interactions. They also offer guidance on travel agent accounting and fraud and scam detection, ensuring you are well-equipped to handle the financial and security aspects of your business.
Resources Provided by Host Agencies
Resource
Description
Comprehensive Training Programs
Covering industry basics, sales, and marketing techniques.
CRM Systems
Managing client relationships and interactions.
Proprietary Booking Engines
Simplifying the booking process, such as FastBook.
Travel Agent Accounting and Fraud Detection
Guidance on financial management and security.
Comparing Different Host Agencies in New Mexico
When choosing a host business in New Mexico, it is important to compare the different options available. Each host business offers unique benefits and support structures. For instance, Fora provides a one-stop shop with everything needed to get started, including access to booking systems, marketing support, and comprehensive training programs.
LuxRally Travel, on the other hand, offers a free online training course that is highly detailed and includes practical exams. They also provide a supportive community of luxury travel agents and ongoing education courses to help you stay updated with industry trends.
It's crucial to evaluate the specific resources, training programs, and community support offered by each host business to ensure it aligns with your career goals and business needs.
Checklist:
- Training Programs
- Access to Booking Systems
- Marketing Support
- Community and Networking Opportunities
- Additional Certifications and Education
TIP: Consider factors such as the cost of training, the level of support provided, and the reputation of the host business when making your decision.
Training and Education
Online Training Courses and Programs
Online training courses are a convenient and flexible way to begin your journey as a travel agent in New Mexico. Programs like those offered by Penn Foster and the University of New Mexico provide comprehensive online training that can be completed at your own pace. These courses cover a wide range of topics, including international travel, tour and vacation packages, and computerized reservation systems.
For example, Penn Foster's Travel Agent Career Diploma program can be completed in as little as 8 months and includes detailed lessons on key tourist destinations, tour packages, and how to start your own travel business. Similarly, the University of New Mexico offers an online travel and tourism training course that prepares students to assist clients in researching, planning, and booking their travel.
Comprehensive Training Programs Offered by Host Agencies
Host agencies in New Mexico offer extensive training programs that are designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed as a travel agent. For instance, LuxRally Travel provides a free online training course that takes around 50-70 hours to complete. This course is divided into several modules, including travel agent basics, leisure and group bookings, and concierge services. The training also includes practical exams and feedback sessions to ensure you are well-prepared for your role.
LuxRally Travel's Training Curriculum
Module
Description
The Industry
Covers travel agent basics, industry terminology, and best practices.
The Systems
Includes training on using CRM systems and booking engines like FastBook.
Practical Exam
A role-play exam with feedback to prepare you for real client interactions.
LuxRally Travel's training program also includes ongoing education courses, such as a travel agent marketing course, to help you continuously improve your skills.
Ongoing Training and Advanced Certifications
Ongoing training is essential in the travel industry, where trends and technologies are constantly evolving. Host agencies and organizations like The Travel Institute offer advanced certifications that can enhance your expertise and marketability. Certifications such as the Certified Travel Associate (CTA) and Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) demonstrate a high level of professionalism and can open up more career opportunities.
Specialized training programs in niche markets, such as golf, honeymoons & destination weddings, and luxury travel, can also provide a competitive edge. These programs include targeted marketing strategies and industry-specific knowledge that can help you stand out in the market.
Niche Market Specialist Programs:
- Golf
- Honeymoons & Destination Weddings
- Luxury
- Wellness
Hospitality and Tourism Degree Programs as Additional Education
For those looking to gain a deeper understanding of the hospitality and tourism industry, degree programs can be a valuable addition to your training. Central New Mexico Community College (CNM) offers a Hospitality and Tourism program that covers essential coursework such as operations, marketing, and event planning. This program can be particularly beneficial for those interested in group travel and luxury travel, as it provides hands-on training and the opportunity to build a network of industry professionals.
TIP: The associate of arts degree in hospitality and tourism from CNM can be transferred to a bachelor’s degree program in hospitality management at New Mexico State University, offering a pathway to advanced education in the field.
Building Your Business
Building a Client Base Through Networking and Marketing
Building a strong client base is crucial for the success of your travel business in New Mexico. This can be achieved through effective networking and marketing strategies. Attend local business events, join travel and tourism associations, and participate in community gatherings to connect with potential clients. Building relationships with local businesses, such as hotels, restaurants, and tour operators, can also lead to valuable partnerships and referrals.
Leveraging Local Knowledge to Plan Trips in New Mexico
One of the unique advantages of being a travel agent in New Mexico is the ability to leverage your local knowledge. Plan trips that highlight the state's rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. For example, you can organize tours to Albuquerque's historic sites, Santa Fe's art district, and White Sands National Park. This insider knowledge can make your travel itineraries stand out and attract clients looking for authentic experiences.
Local knowledge is a powerful tool in the travel industry. It allows you to create personalized and memorable travel experiences that clients won't find elsewhere.
Using Social Media and Email Marketing Effectively
Social media and email marketing are essential tools for promoting your travel business and attracting clients. Use platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to share engaging content, such as photos and videos of New Mexico's attractions, client testimonials, and special travel deals. Email marketing campaigns can help you stay in touch with clients, offer exclusive promotions, and provide valuable travel tips and advice.
Social Media and Email Marketing Tips
Platform
Strategy
Instagram
Share high-quality visuals of travel destinations and use relevant hashtags.
Facebook
Post client testimonials and special travel deals to engage your audience.
Email Marketing
Send regular newsletters with exclusive offers, travel tips, and industry news.
Attending Industry Events and Conferences
Attending industry events and conferences is a great way to stay updated on the latest trends and network with other professionals in the travel industry. Events like the New Mexico Tourism Association's annual conference and the ASTA Global Convention offer opportunities to learn from industry experts, meet new suppliers, and build relationships with other travel agents.
Industry Events:
- New Mexico Tourism Association's Annual Conference
- ASTA Global Convention
- Local Travel Trade Shows
TIP: Make the most of these events by preparing an elevator pitch, bringing business cards, and actively engaging with other attendees to maximize your networking opportunities.
Earning Money as a Travel Agent
Commission-Based Earnings from Travel Bookings
Earning money as a travel agent in New Mexico is primarily based on commission-based earnings from travel bookings. When you book flights, hotels, and other travel services for your clients, you earn a commission on these bookings. This commission can vary depending on the type of booking and the agreements you have with travel providers. For instance, booking airline tickets, hotel stays, and package tours can generate significant commissions, especially if you are affiliated with a host business that has strong partnerships with major travel suppliers.
Planning Fees and Additional Revenue Streams
In addition to commission-based earnings, many travel agents in New Mexico charge planning fees for their services. These fees can be flat rates or based on the complexity of the travel itinerary. For example, you might charge a planning fee for customized travel itineraries or for handling special requests such as booking exclusive tours or arranging unique experiences. This fee structure allows you to earn income even if the client does not book through you but still values your expertise and time.
Additional Revenue Streams for Travel Agents
Revenue Stream
Description
Planning Fees
Charged for customized travel itineraries or special requests.
Consultation Fees
Charged for expert advice on travel planning.
Package Deals
Earning commissions on bundled travel packages.
Offering additional services like travel insurance, visa assistance, and travel gear recommendations can also add to your revenue streams, making your business more diverse and lucrative.
Flexible Scheduling and Income Potential
Flexible Scheduling:
- Set your own hours
- Work from home or remotely
- Manage your client base at your own pace
TIP: Utilizing technology and online booking systems can further enhance your flexibility, allowing you to manage bookings and communicate with clients efficiently, even outside traditional working hours.
Resources and Tools for Success
Technology Platforms and Booking Systems
To succeed as a travel agent in New Mexico, having access to the right technology platforms and booking systems is crucial. Host agencies like LuxRally Travel and Fora provide their agents with advanced booking systems such as FastBook, a proprietary booking engine that simplifies the process of managing client bookings. These systems are designed to be user-friendly and efficient, allowing you to book flights, hotels, and other travel services quickly and accurately.
Booking Systems and Technology Platforms
Platform
Description
FastBook
A proprietary booking engine provided by LuxRally Travel for efficient booking management.
CRM Systems
Customer Relationship Management systems to manage client interactions and bookings.
Computerized Reservation Systems
Systems like Sabre, Amadeus, and Galileo for managing travel bookings and itineraries.
These technology platforms not only streamline your work but also enhance the overall client experience by providing seamless and efficient travel arrangements.
Marketing Tools and Community Support
Effective marketing and community support are vital for the success of a travel agent. Host agencies often provide a range of marketing tools and resources to help you promote your services. For example, LuxRally Travel offers marketing support through social media, email marketing, and other digital channels. Additionally, being part of a community of travel agents can provide valuable networking opportunities and support.
Subscription Plans and Associated Costs
When considering the resources and tools provided by host agencies, it's important to understand the subscription plans and associated costs. Different host agencies offer various subscription models, each with its own set of benefits and costs. For instance, LuxRally Travel's free online training course is part of their comprehensive package, which includes ongoing education courses, access to booking systems, and marketing support.
Subscription Plan:
- Monthly/Annual Fees
- Access to Booking Systems
- Marketing Support
- Ongoing Education Courses
- Community Access
Subscription Plan Breakdown
Feature
Cost
Monthly/Annual Fees
Varying costs depending on the host business and services included.
Access to Booking Systems
Often included in the subscription plan.
Marketing Support
Provided as part of the subscription package.
Ongoing Education Courses
May be included or available at an additional cost.
Community Access
Typically included in the subscription plan.
TIP: Carefully evaluate the costs and benefits of each subscription plan to ensure it aligns with your business needs and budget.
Conclusion: Embarking on Your Journey as a Travel Agent in New Mexico
Becoming a travel agent in New Mexico is a rewarding and exciting career path that offers a blend of personal fulfillment, financial stability, and the opportunity to explore the world. With the right training, certifications, and support, you can navigate the travel industry with confidence and success.
The stability of the travel agent industry in New Mexico, with around 150 employed travel agents and approximately 20 annual job openings, presents a promising landscape for aspiring agents. By leveraging local knowledge, specializing in niche markets, and utilizing advanced booking systems and marketing tools, you can create a unique and valuable service for your clients.
As you embark on this journey, keep in mind that becoming a successful travel agent is not just about the technical skills; it's also about providing exceptional customer service, building strong relationships, and staying updated with the latest industry trends.
Aspect
Description
Continuous Learning
Engage in ongoing education and certifications to stay competitive.
Networking
Join professional associations and attend industry events to build your network.
Local Knowledge
Leverage your knowledge of New Mexico to plan unique and memorable trips.
Marketing and Technology
Use advanced marketing tools and booking systems to enhance your services.
TIP: Always stay flexible and open to new opportunities and challenges. The travel industry is dynamic, and being adaptable will help you navigate its ups and downs with ease.
With determination, hard work, and the right resources, you can build a fulfilling and lucrative career as a travel agent in New Mexico. Embrace the journey, and let your passion for travel guide you towards a successful and rewarding career.
Success Mantra:
- Learn Continuously
- Network Actively
- Leverage Local Knowledge
- Use Technology Effectively
- Provide Exceptional Service
Located northwest of Santa Fe and 80 mi/130 km north of Albuquerque, Abiquiu, New Mexico, is where artist Georgia O'Keeffe lived for many years. You can still see the beautiful chimney rock formations (and even a few cattle skulls) made famous in her...
Acoma, or “Sky City” is located on the top a mesa, elevated area of land with a flat top, hundreds of feet above the surrounding land. Once you have reached the top of the mesa you can see breathtaking panoramic views of surrounding mesas and mountai...
Near Alamogordo is the birthplace of the Atomic Age. In 1945, the first atomic weapon was detonated at the Trinity Site—a 146-acre/59-hectare area of snow-white gypsum sand dunes about 50 mi/80 km northwest of town. The site is now part of the White ...
Albuquerque, New Mexico, could be the place to fulfill dreams of a southwestern getaway. A centuries-old Spanish church anchors the city's plaza, chili-pepper-spiked delicacies are found on almost every menu, and residential neighborhoods are chock-f...
Carlsbad Caverns National Park is part of the Guadalupe Mountain range southeast of New Mexico and southwest of Carlsbad, New Mexico, USA. 250 million years ago the area surrounding Carlsbad Caverns National Park was submerged in the sea - home to ma...
Certain ancient places—the Egyptian pyramids come to mind—capture the imagination with their enduring majesty and mystery. Chaco Canyon is one of those places. Located in the northwest corner of the state, these ruins were built over a period of thre...
Located between Santa Fe and Taos, Chimayo is home to El Santuario de Chimayo. This unadorned but striking shrine was built on the site where, in 1810, villagers claimed to see a light emanating from the ground. When they investigated, they unearthed...
This town just west of the Texas border on Highway 84, 200 mi/320 km east of Albuquerque, is the home of the Norman Petty Studios, where the late Buddy Holly recorded many of his most famous rock 'n' roll hits in the late 1950s. The studio is still i...
Espanola, New Mexico, is best known for being at the heart of a handful of historic pueblos: San Juan, San Ildefonso, Santa Clara and Pojoaque, to name a few. Espanola will also appeal to car buffs: It's a center for low-riders and classic autos. It ...
Located in one of the most fertile valleys in New Mexico, Farmington is 150 mi/240 km northwest of Albuquerque and just east of the Navajo Nation Reservation, which stretches into Arizona. The city hosts a huge hot-air balloon fiesta every spring, an...
New Mexico's northwestern corner joins three other states—the only place in the U.S. where four states share a common point. A monument run by the Navajo tribe (whose reservation encompasses this corner of the state) allows visitors to stand in Utah,...
You may find yourself passing through Gallup, 130 mi/210 km west of Albuquerque: Both Interstate 40 and Amtrak's Southwest Chief rail line run through town, as does a portion of old Route 66 (the town even gets a mention in the musical tribute to the...
Another town that preserves a portion of Route 66, Grants lies near one of the largest deposits of uranium in the world, 75 mi/120 km west of Albuquerque. Its discovery in 1950 made uranium extraction the main business in Grants. The New Mexico Museu...
Not far from White Sands Missile Range is Las Cruces, 200 mi/320 km south of Albuquerque, the largest city in southwest New Mexico, a leading agricultural center and home of New Mexico State University. The New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum inc...
Las Vegas started as a farming and ranching settlement in the 1840s after a dozen or so families petitioned Mexico for a land grant. It was up and running when Gen. Stephen Kearny declared New Mexico part of the U.S.—the announcement was made from a ...
Lincoln, New Mexico, located 135 mi/215 km southeast of Albuquerque, owes its fame to Henry McCarty, better known as William Bonney and best known as Billy the Kid. It was in this frontier town in April 1881 that the Kid escaped from the Lincoln Coun...
Los Alamos, 55 mi/90 km north of Albuquerque, is where Robert Oppenheimer convened the team of scientists that first developed and tested the atomic bomb. In the years since, the town has become the center of the nation's nuclear-arms program. Today,...
Mescalero, New Mexico, is home to Ski Apache, part of the Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort & Casino. The park collects an average of 15 ft/4.6 m of powder each season and peaks at 11,500 ft/3,565 m, with 55 distinct trails for all levels. Eleven lifts...
No trip to New Mexico is complete without a visit to at least one of the state's 19 Native American pueblos. Although they are centuries-old dwelling sites, they are also modern communities whose residents deal with modern issues. One of those issues...
Once an important stop on the Santa Fe Trail, Raton (pronounced ra-TONE) is near the Raton Pass into Colorado. Today's visitors can experience the same sense of wonder that the pioneers must have felt as they observed the majestic ascent of the mount...
This is where the aliens landed ... maybe. Some believe it started in 1947, when the U.S. military recovered unusual wreckage on a ranch near Roswell. Though the official report later claimed it was the remnants of a weather balloon, others maintain ...
This small town in the mountains 130 mi/210 km southeast of Albuquerque is a popular vacation area, especially for people from west Texas. Many travelers go there to gamble at Ruidoso Downs and the attached Billy the Kid Casino. Slot machines are ava...
Santa Ana Pueblo has a long history of progress. In 1709, the pueblo purchased 5,000 acres along the Río Grande to increase its agricultural production and land base. The pueblo's 15,000-acre Spanish land grants and additional land purchases brought ...
Even though Santa Fe is capital of New Mexico, the state's third largest city, and has been around longer than all but one other city in America, it is still relatively unknown to many U.S. travelers. The city history spans almost 400 years yet much ...
This town tucked into the Sangre de Christo Mountains, 70 mi/113 km northeast of Santa Fe, has attracted artists since the late 1800s because of its beautiful setting and dramatic light. Today, it's still full of artists, galleries and travelers who ...
We can't confirm or deny the incident, but if aliens did crash their UFO in Roswell, they certainly picked the right state: New Mexico is knee-deep in the mystical and the mysterious. Disappearing civilizations, secret atomic test sites, Native American healers, divine dirt and miraculous staircases are just some of the things you'll find that are hard to explain.
The unknowable can be fun, but it's only a part of New Mexico's allure. Whether or not they hold powerful energy vortexes, the mountains and desert are beautiful to look at and thrilling to hike, bike, ski or raft through. Whether or not Pueblo people have the remedy for the ills of civilization, their art is engaging and their communities fascinating. We think you'll have a completely enjoyable time taking New Mexico's scenery and activities at face value. If you happen to gain some spiritual insight (or meet an alien) along the way, so much the better.
Geography
Most of New Mexico lies above 4,000 ft/1,220 m and is a wonderful combination of mountains, rolling hills, deserts, plains and farmland. Generally, the farther north you go, the more mountainous the state becomes, with the most scenic portion being the north-central area, where the Sangre de Cristo Mountains march south from Colorado.
History
One of New Mexico's oldest mysteries is the fate of the Ancestral Pueblo people (sometimes called the Anasazi, although that term has fallen out of favor), who developed an advanced civilization beginning about AD 800. Their famous multitiered adobe dwellings housed as many as 1,500 people, and some were constructed in breathtaking settings atop cliffs and mesas. (You can see several of these structures at Chaco Canyon and Bandelier National Monument, among other places). Yet by about 1200, their dwellings were abandoned. Various explanations have been offered for the sudden end of the Ancestral Pueblo culture, including drought, warfare among communities and the rise of a new religion.
When the Spanish explorer Coronado first came through the region in 1540, he found sizable communities dispersed along the upper Rio Grande. The inhabitants of these settlements likely were the descendants of the Ancestral Puebloans. Spain's first settlement, at San Juan Pueblo in 1598, was followed 12 years later by the founding of Santa Fe. From the outset, relations between the colonists and the Native Americans were strained and, at times, brutal and bloody. In 1680, the oppressed pueblos staged a successful revolt. Although the Spanish would eventually regain control, the pueblo uprising was one of the most substantial resistance movements among Native Americans. It deterred Spanish colonization for 12 years.
The Spanish territory became a possession of newly independent Mexico in 1821 and was passed to the U.S. after the Mexican-American War. New Mexico grew more slowly than other western U.S. territories (it didn't become a state until 1912), but the discovery of uranium and other energy resources stimulated growth and revenue for the state and gave it a prominent place in the nuclear age.
As with other major cities in the Southwest, Albuquerque has grown steadily in the past 30 years, while Santa Fe and other mountain areas have become popular travel and retirement destinations. Down south, the climate and border location of Las Cruces make it a popular choice for both retirees and new businesses. The state continues to attract investment attention, with moviemakers focusing on the mountains and cities of New Mexico because of tax breaks and other incentives. Aviation, technology and increasing trade with Mexico are all part of New Mexico's modern mix.
Snapshot
New Mexico's main attractions include Native American and Hispanic culture, adobe architecture, spectacular mountain and desert scenery, festivals (celebrating everything from hot-air balloons to grand opera to folk art), Santa Fe, art galleries, Carlsbad Caverns, ghost towns, Taos, Native American pueblos, ancient ruins, Albuquerque, casino gambling, skiing and distinctively spicy cuisine (often made with green and red chilies).
New Mexico will satisfy any traveler interested in the Southwest. An American locale with European and Native American roots, the state gives tourists a sense of place and community lacking in many other parts of the U.S. Those who are looking for watersports, big-city entertainment or short drive times between attractions may find the state less to their liking.
Potpourri
If you want to ride a steam train through beautiful alpine scenery, make reservations for the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad from Chama, New Mexico, to Antonito, Colorado. It has been called the most spectacular mountain railroad in North America. The line operates late May-late October, with occasional rides in wintry December.
New Mexico is the oldest wine-growing region in the U.S. and has 21 vineyards and wineries. Many offer tours and tastings. We're especially fond of a sparkling wine made in Albuquerque called Gruet.
Drive about 50 mi/80 km west of Socorro on Highway 60, and you'll see the shape of a large "Y" in the far distance. It's the Very Large Array (VLA) Radio Telescope: Some 27 huge dish antennas (each of them 82 ft/25 m in diameter) lined up across the desert. (It was seen in the film Contact, starring Jodie Foster.) The telescope is used to photograph distant galaxies. A visitors center is open at the site, and tours are available.
Lew Wallace, author of Ben Hur, was once New Mexico's territorial governor.
Truth or Consequences, New Mexico, is the only town in the U.S. named after a game show. Its name was officially changed in the 1950s as part of a publicity stunt that benefited both the TV show and the town.
The Lightning Field, in southwestern New Mexico, is an internationally recognized piece of art by sculptor Walter de Maria. Viewing its gridlike pattern (advance reservations and an overnight stay are required) amid a vast expanse of sky can be life-changing.
Smokey the Bear was New Mexican, found as a cub in 1950 after a forest fire in the Capitan Gap. He later lived at the National Zoo in Washington, D.C., and became the beloved firefighting symbol of schoolchildren across the U.S. He died in 1976 and is buried near Capitan.
New Mexico's second and final statue for U.S. Statuary Hall, is of Pope (pronounced poh-pay), who led the successful Pueblo Revolt in 1680.
Virgin Galactic and New Mexico have teamed up to build a Spaceport near Alamogordo.
New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson holds the world record for most hands shaken in a day: 13,392.
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We had the privilege of staying at AVA Resort Cancun on its opening day. Here’s our firsthand review of this highly anticipated, family-friendly, brand-new luxury all-inclusive resort in Cancun.
A...
“I think we will skip EPCOT until the kids are older” is something I hear clients say often. While a lot of adults do love EPCOT for the festivals and food/drink options, it is also a great park for c...
Popular Locations & Brands - Experiences All Over The World!
Click on a location below to learn more. We recognize that vacations are not just an investment, but often the highlights of our lives, and we take that responsibility seriously. We want to ensure you have the best experience.
Our motto at Vincent Vacations is, we go so you know! We want to ensure you have the BEST experience, whether it's a river cruise, or a corporate group incentive trip, we want to ensure your vacation is a success.
Many of our travel agents have been in travel since 2002! With Vincent Vacations, all travel components are taken care of - this includes accommodations, air, transfers, tours, activities, insurance, contracts, EVERYTHING.
Romance Travel
Destination weddings, Anniversaries, vow renewals, honeymoons, engagements, elopements, retie the knot, babymoons, proposal trips and more
Group Travel
Corporate group retreats and incentive trips, seniors-only river cruises, friends & family getaways, special group anniversary celebrations and more
Family
All-inclusive resorts, Hawaii, cruises, Europe, African Safaris, exotic Fiji and the islands, there are so many travel options for families
Disney
Adventures by Disney, Disney Cruise Lines, Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Resorts, Aulani, Universal, MyDisneyExperience, Disney Genie, characters dining, and more
Ocean cruising, river cruising, yacht charters, expeditions, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Viking, Lindblad, there are so many options when it comes to cruising
And SO Much More!
We create custom travel itineraries and trips, and we know travel - Whether it's Universal, river cruises, safaris, yacht charters, Australia, Thailand and more!
Travel agents can help save time and stress by doing the research and handling all your bookings for you. An experience travel agent is best at finding great deals and packages, as well as providing you with helpful information and tips. They can also help you plan special activities and experiences that you may not have thought of on your own.
All in all, using a travel agent can be a great way to make sure you get the most out of your trip.
In travel since 2002, and in business since 2013, our travel team serves clients all over the US!
Planning a vacation away from home takes a great team.
We have taken the time to build a team of dedicated, smart, hard-working personnel who are each committed to excellence and service.
We work side-by-side, creating and ensuring INCREDIBLE vacation experiences for you and your group.
Our store front in-office team, and our travel consultant independent contractors, work all around the US.
Start Your Next Trip With Vincent Vacations Today!
In business since 2013, we are your #1 source for travel!