Finding all the Treasures of Taos

Breakfast at Tiffany's? I have one better than that, Breakfast at Michael's Kitchen.  This popular place was the first on our list of places to try and it was nothing short of amazing.  Breakfast enchiladas, beans, rice, and my absolute favorite was the Fry bread with honey.  Make sure to get here early thought, this place fills up fast!

After filling up on way too much food, we were off to explore Taos and our first stop was San Fransicso De Asis, located on the main plaza of Rancho de Taos.  This historical church was built in the 1700s and is one of the finest architectural examples of a Spanish Colonial New Mexico Mission church.  It is one of the most photographed churches in the United States and is a designated National Historical Landmark.  This church is still active and offers mass many times per week.  Out of respect, no photos are allowed inside, but you are able to view it.  The detail of the interior architecture is incredible and walking inside takes you back hundreds of years.  More info can be found here https://www.san-francisco-de-asis.org/

The Taos Plaza was next on the to-do list; this unique square is filled with shops, art galleries and eateries.  We stopped by Chokola to grab a cup of coffee before making our way to El Rincon, the Original Trading Post of Taos. This hidden gem is over 100 years old and is still being operated by the same generation of the family who started it.  It is filled with amazing Native American Jewelry and artifacts that have been collected over the years for you to view. I was able to add the perfect turquoise and silver star to my collection.  This place is filled with history and culture and is not to be missed.

Time to drive; The Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway is an 83 mile loop through the forest, mountains, mesa's and valleys of New Mexico.  This drive is centered around Wheeler Peak which stands 13,159 feet and is the tallest point in the state.  Carson National Forest was beautiful and we stopped to take in the fresh air and crisp water of the Red River which runs along Highway 38.  It's also a great place to spot Big Horn Sheep, we saw a herd of them along the roadside.

The day ended with us stopping by to show our support for a local protest that was happening just minutes away from Hotel Luna Mystica.  Native Americans had set up camp for four days fighting to save their water supply.  A local man had climbed to the top of the rig to stop the drilling before coming down and ultimately being taken into custody.  Not only was this a sad situation but a humble experience to say the least.

We ended the day with another amazing sunset view of the mountains; Taos is turning out to be a new favorite location and a place everyone should experience.

Another Gorgeous Day In Taos
Shona

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Desert, Palm Trees, and Palm Springs

California...desert, palm trees, sunshine, and days of adventure.  I have never experienced Cali, other than passing through LAX which was an experience all in itself, but I am so glad I was able to get away for a few days with my BF.

We flew into John Wayne National Airport, grabbed our bags and took off to get the car...a convertible of course. We had open highways to cruise!  Top down, shades on, wind blowing through our hair, music, and venturing our way down the 111 to Palm Springs.  It was the perfect beginning to our vaca. We stayed at the Riviera Palm Springs and this resort is nothing but amazing.  We had a great view of the pool, brightly colored orange lounge chairs, palm trees, mountains, and plenty of room to soak up the sun.  

We explored downtown driving along Palm Canyon and Indian Canyon Drive. Think a lot of local shops and eateries but ended that evening having cocktails at Melvyn's, a local joint just off the beaten path.  We strolled along the streets and did some shopping before heading back to the resort. The weather here is warm, but no humidity so it's very enjoyable from sunrise to sunset.  

The next day we headed back downtown to grab brunch at Lulu's California Bistro before spending the rest of the day poolside.  The food was amazing and they had some of the best coffee I have ever had. I went with the infamous Strawberry Crepes, with a side of bacon of course, and he had the California Norwegian Benedict.  We spent the rest of the day relaxing at the pool, reading our books, and enjoying the warm sun and water.  That evening we went to Village Fest, a traditional downtown event of arts, crafts, a farmers market, and for us, people watching.  

Friday morning we grabbed a few snacks at the local 7-11; you know the essentials, water, mini-tacos, mozzarella sticks...and of course I got a Coke Slurpee..not to be confused with the original "Icee" and we headed to Joshua Tree National Park.  It was a relaxing drive while enjoying the desert scenery.  I will share more of Joshua Tree and our experience there in the next blog post :) 

Friday evening we spent our last night getting all dressed up. First things first, cocktails at the resort lounge. A Cosmopolitan for me and a Negroni for him. We then headed to Trio, a restaurant filled with vibrant splashes of colors, for a light dinner of Calamari and Wild Mushroom Linguine followed by a cocktail at Eight4Nine, which boasted a chic and swanky atmosphere.  

Saturday morning, we hit the road early, stopped for a quick bite at In-N-Out burger...I can check that off the list, and caught an early flight home to get prepared for the rest of our weekend that we would spend at the lake.  California delivered all that I expected and I would definitely return again. I love the architecture, the desert and mountains, the sunshine, the breeze, no humidity, great places to dine, great cocktails, and mostly experiencing it with the one person who loves the adventure as much as me!  

Until next time Cali...

Shona