Santa Fe

Santa Fe, New Mexico, is the oldest capital city in the US. I love it because I grew up there in a Greek family who owned restaurants. The crisp autumn air, the irresistible aroma of green chili and the comforting scent of wood fireplaces define the essence of fall for me. These cherished memories and sensory experiences make Santa Fe truly unique and unforgettable.

Santa Fe pops up on every “Girls Trip” list you’ll find — so our girls trip finally tried it. An art-vibrant, gallery-filled small New Mexico town, we found that a couple of nights would be enough and that (surprising for this group) our favorite places were outside the city center. We were by far the youngest group in town, except for the two bachelorette parties we ran into — most visitors were smaller groups of sweet older ladies. If you’re looking for quality time with friends to reconnect, Santa Fe’s pace will give you just that.

Boasting an average of 300 days of sunshine each year, Santa Fe was known as the "Dancing Ground of the Sun" by its indigenous inhabitants. The city has a lot to offer visitors. For those who love outdoor adventures, there are over 100 hiking trails to explore, and Taos is an easy day trip for skiers. Santa Fe has a thriving art scene, unparalleled shopping opportunities, and indulgent spas and dining experiences for those who prefer a more leisurely pace.

In the early 1800s, Santa Fe was the meeting point for three significant trading routes originating in California, Mexico City, and Missouri. The convergence of these trading routes led to a unique blend of cultures that defines the essence of Santa Fe.

The women of Santa Fe played a significant role in shaping and preserving the city's culture. Therefore, it is the perfect city to celebrate close female friendships.

In May of 2024, I had the privilege of staying at the luxurious Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa. This resort is great for a couple's getaway, girl's weekend or fitness retreat.

A couple of years ago I was in a rut after a long winter and wanted to see and experience a place that is completely different from where I live in coastal South Carolina. Flying into New Mexico felt like arriving on the moon, and it was exactly what I was looking for. Santa Fe has a small town feel but packs a big punch. Prepare to become officially enchanted as you take in The City Different. From fabulous spa options to luxe accommodations and incredible art and food, you cannot go wrong with this charming and friendly destination. Situated at an elevation of 7,200 feet, the oldest and highest capital city in the US is a hub of outdoor recreation and activities galore. Santa Fe is a treasure trove of art, culture and history all set against an exquisite high desert backdrop, with scents of pinon, juniper and chiles wafting through the clear air. Your time there can be spent as actively or as relaxed as you would like.

I spent a long girls' weekend in Santa Fe in March 2024. We stayed at beautiful Bishops Lodge. The resort has undergone a sensitive restoration to preserve it’s distinctive Southwestern heritage. It’s about fifteen minutes away from town, set in the mountains.

A confluence of Mexican, Native American and Spanish tradition meets at the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, giving birth to Santa Fe, the heart of The Land of Enchantment. Santa Fe's sunny and semi-arid climate makes it a perfect destination for year-round travel. Enjoy sweeping landscapes, outdoor adventures, traditional pueblo architecture, Southwest art and culture and an incredible food and wine scene. This is a destination that has something for everyone.

There’s something quietly powerful about Santa Fe that stays with you. I first came here in my 20s on a camping trip, and now—decades later—I'm staying in five-star comfort. Both experiences felt magical and luxurious in their own ways. The blend of Native, Spanish, and Anglo history gives the city its soul, while the perfect weather, beautiful architecture, vibrant art, and thoughtful cuisine make it a place that invites you to slow down, connect, and explore.