Albuquerque - Chama

New Mexico-a natural for Topic Tours in many ways. First, the natural beauty of a New Mexico sunset; second, the many native cultures living side-by-side in the state; third, the local cuisine (red or green?). We can go on and on before we even add the topic element, and there are as many complimentary topics as there are shades of pink and orange in one of New Mexico's gorgeous sunsets.

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Albuquerque

From its simple beginnings in the historic Old Town area in 1706, Albuquerque has grown from small pueblos and Spanish farms to become one of the premier metropolitan centers of the Southwest. Built on the diversity of Spanish culture and Native American traditions, Albuquerque is now home to world class cultural events, attractions, museums, shopping and outdoor recreations. It is considered one of the most culturally diverse cities in the USA, with many ethnic groups represented. This diversity is seen not only in the faces, but in local celebrations as well as works of art.

The art scene in New Mexico is world-renown, from fine to funky, from classic to avant-guard. And of course to shop in Albuquerque is to discover works of art and any visitor must allow some time to look for handmade American Indian crafts, the latest fashions, gourmet New Mexico foods, or fine Southwestern furniture.

Red or green? Mild or fiery?

There is nothing like New Mexican cuisine and Albuquerque offers quite a variety of dining options, from the quaint and casual to the more elegant. If you cant decide how to answer, then place your order Christmas for a little red and a little green chili! Add some spice into your life!

New Mexico's natural landscapes, traditional architecture and magnificent sunsets provide the perfect backdrop for the rich history and proud heritage that exist in the Land of Enchantment. Albuquerque has a wonderful mild year-round climate, yet four distinct seasons and celebrations to go with each. You know it autumn when hundreds of hot air balloons fly overhead, and it is obviously Christmas season when we see thousands of luminaries light our way. We hope you will re-discover each season with Topic Tours.

La Posada de Albuquerque

Everything old is new again. Step into history, and not just that of Albuquerque, but also the history of hospitality itself. La Posada is Albuquerques only hotel listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 1939 it was the very first hotel opened by New Mexico native Conrad Hilton, who honeymooned here with his bride Zsa Zsa Gabor. In the 1980s the property underwent a multi-million dollar restoration, using old photographs and sketches to re-create Hiltons original ideas. With its elaborate Moorish brass and mosaic tiled fountain, handcrafted circular balcony, massive vigas and Native American war-dance murals, La Posada de Albuquerque is the southwest.

The hotel is well located in downtown Albuquerque with easy access to the Civic Plaza, Old Town, Nob Hill and restaurants and nightclubs. The beautiful and spacious lobby is a favorite gathering place to soak up southwestern atmosphere. The hotel is also home to Remedy, a healing spa, Conrads Restaurant, featuring innovative Mexican cuisine as well as Jane Butels School of Southwestern Cooking. The comfortable guest rooms are inspired by the beauty of local Hispanic and Native American cultures with furnishings handmade by local artisans.

Rooms have one king, one queen or two queen beds and among the amenities you will find coffee makers, clock radios, TV with movie channels, hair dryers, irons and boards, two-line telephones with voicemail, and data ports.

Chama

About two hours north of Albuquerque, we discover Chama. Charming Chama is located in the San Juan Mountains, surrounded by New Mexico beauty of three wilderness areas, the Caron, Rio Grande and Santa Fe National Forests. Chama is one of the best-kept secrets of the Rocky Mountains and is a paradise for anyone who enjoys the outdoors.

Warm weather activities including hunting, fishing, river rafting, hiking, cycling, boating, sailing and of course, riding the historic Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, Americas most authentic narrow gauge steam railroad. This train twists and turns through the rugged San Juan Mountains on the very tracks that tamed the West over 120 years ago. On the 64-mile trip from Chama to Antonito, Colorado, you will cross the Colorado-New Mexico border eleven times!

In winter, pristine wilderness, 100-mile vistas, and mounds of snow create a paradise for cross country skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling. This quiet wilderness is a perfect place for reflection and year round it is a photographers delight.

Chama is truly a place of peace, solitude and beauty.

The Lodge at Chama

About two hours north of Albuquerque in San Juan Mountains of northern New Mexico is the unique 36,000 acre retreat known as the Lodge at Chama. This lodge is the ultimate in luxury, with personal attention, fabulous cuisine and extreme comfort. Anywhere you look your eyes are met with breathtaking vistas, mountain peaks, valleys, lakes and forests, any one would take your breath away, but all together it is a scene of unsurpassed natural beauty.

All guest rooms at the Lodge at Chama offer views of the San Juan Mountains. On property are a whirlpool, sauna and fully-equipped exercise center. The great room has a 36 foot cathedral ceiling and 20 foot wide see-through fireplace. It is a comfortable place for a meal or a brandy and good book after dinner. Dining experiences will delight and surprise you; sumptuous meals and personal service against the backdrop of the rugged northern New Mexico mountains. All meals at the Lodge at Chama are prepared with fresh, local ingredients, accompanied by fine wines.

The Lodge at Chama is owned and operated by Native Americans and has won several prestigious awards for hospitality and building design. We think you will agree that we have found our own Shangri-La in the remote mountains of the West.

Itinerary