I’ll be honest, I had only been there once before, and really it was to the airport (one that offers free wifi). So I didn’t know what to expect. It’s an interesting place, reminds me a lot like Salt Lake City. I was sad I didn’t have more time there because I really wanted to go to the National Hispanic Cultural Center, and I was one week late to see the hot air balloon festival. Oh well, maybe next time, I did get my share of New Mexican food though.

Things I learned on this trip:

1. Green Chilies are delicious and a New Mexico Staple
2. If you ask for a side of green chilies and a side of red chilies it’s called Christmas
3. Don’t leave a rotten banana peel in your car door- you never know who will be the next person taking shotgun
4. New Mexico Police Department has some friendly officers
5. It does snow in Albuquerque and they do have ski resorts
6. The media is unpredictable but can be responsive
7. Don’t plan on taking scissors and duct tape in your carry-on
8. You cannot buy biscoff cookies at the grocery store
9. No matter how much you plan and are prepared- something will go wrong
10. It’s ok to stress but don’t stress over the things you cannot control

Places to check out: El Pinto- it’s an old mission that has been turned into a delicious restaurant. Every single presidential candidate has their picture from their visit to the restaurant on the wall, along with numerous other famous people. El Pinto is well known for their salsa and green chili sauce. Ask for a seat on the patio, this restaurant is all about atmosphere.