I'm from Alaska, and I consistently tell anyone who will listen that New Mexico is by far the most beautiful place I've ever visited. My husband is from Italy and we live in Milan, and he and I agree that if we ever move back to the US, we'd like to move to Albuquerque. Everything about the city appeals to us, not just the scenery but the people too. Amazing state, my absolute favorite too.
My home state, thank you; it truly is the land of enchantment! We also have some of the bluest skies in the united states due to the altitude and clean air.
I often stop there as well when I'm driving through the state. All that spicy stuff before getting on the road for a few more hours isn't usually the best idea!
@@jonsanchez141 That place must be over 60 years old. I miss it so much, haven't been back to new mexico since 1989. i miss it sometimes. Is mac's steak in the ruff there any more.
Some history that was omitted was that the first atomic bomb was built and detonated in New Mexico. The dozens of Indian Pueblos were also overlooked. Almost every pueblo also has its own gambling casino if that's your thing. Fun fact, New Mexico originally wanted to be called the SUNSHINE STATE but that title was taken by Florida, which is ironic because it rains way more in Florida and New Mexico has more sunny days. The name LAND OF ENCHANTMENT was coined by the artist Georgia O'Keefe, who moved to New Mexico and fell in love with the scenery.
ACTUALLY New Mexico was called the "Sunshine State" by the territorial governor, Bradford Prince in 1892. The slogan actually appeared on license plates beginning in 1932. Florida did not officially take over the name until 1970.
Lol I imagine if Puerto Rico becomes a state they’ll have to change their motto because right now it’s “la isla del encanto” which translates to the island of enchantment. Very similar
Great to see another El Pasoan in the comments! We are truly nestled into a great geographical area with two great neighbors and Texas's own Big Bend to explore.
@Jeff Holland There is too much political tribalization. People need to get over all of the political rhetoric and learn how to live with each other again. People are people. The rhetoric is there to manipulate voters and project views that people do not necessarily hold. People need to get over this garbage.
I’ve lived all over the US and finally made the move to Taos New Mexico last year from Sun Valley, ID. I drove into town having never been there. I was instantly under the spell of the land of enchantment. The most beautiful state and people ever. That’s why it’s an artist Mecca. And not just painters but also writers. It’s so goddamn inspiring. You hit everything I love about the state. I tell people it’s as close as you can get to being in another country while still in the US. It’s just a completely different culture. Thank you! It’s the hidden gem of all the US.
@@IntensePeppers The cost of living in Taos is higher than some other areas I've lived in; don't know about Sun Valley. Because of transportation inefficiencies and smaller markets, you can expect to pay more for fresh food, for example, than in many parts of the country. Fuel can be more expensive here too, though you may well use a lot less of it - our home heating bills are about 20% of what we paid in Michigan. (And we live at high elevation so we don't need A/C.) Because of that, and because like a lot of people around here we get some of our heat from burning wood, we likely save on our domestic costs overall. Right now property prices are quite inflated, so housing costs are an issue for many folks. AirBnB undermined the long-term rentals (though the town and county are starting to crack down on that) and both existing homes and new construction are quite expensive relative to historical trends and some other areas. And, of course, the one thing people *really* need to pay attention to when moving to the area is water. What's your water source? How reliable is it? Do you have surface-water (acequia) rights? (And if you do, are you prepared to be a good parciante and help with ditch maintenance?) Agua es vida. It's also important to think about where you're going to live. The canyons are pretty, but think about how much sunlight you'll get in the winter months and what the fire danger will be in the summer. There's a reason the Pueblos and Spanish settlements are located where they are. It's always good to have new people coming in who respect and appreciate the traditions. There's a certain amount of carpetbagging from some of the wealthier, more arrogant new arrivals who want to turn Taos into another Jackson Hole or something. Taos politics are ... energetic. There's no shortage of eccentricity around here. It won't be to everyone's taste but if it's your sort of place it can really be very appealing.
It's cool you like our state! Just remember it's not just the Navajo natives that are here. There's Pueblo natives here too. Acoma Pueblo, Laguna Pueblo, Taos Pueblo, Santo Domingo Pueblo etc.
They're the unsung heroes of the state. They own so much land and prevent the government and corporations from spreading and polluting. Without them the state would lose so much of nature and the sunset.
I really appreciate the fact you point out our cuisine in not Mexican nor Tex-Mex, as our food is a huge part of our culture. For what its worth though the Navajo language is called Diné, not navajo, and its mostly only an official language in the north western part of the state.
Navajo people also call themselves Diné (which is just an Athabascan word that means "people"). This is a bit pedantic though since the term Navajo is also used.
Your video is the most comprehensive yet on our state. I first saw New Mexico when I was a mere youth of 13. I vowed then that I would return and live there. It took eight years, but I returned at age 21 and have lived here, happily, ever since.
I absolutely love New Mexico. It has so many surprises and beautiful landscapes, beautiful people and fantastic cuisine. There is a very spiritual quality I can sense when I am there. I can’t not mention the skies. They are amazing- the sunrises, sunsets and even the storms. My favorite is the night skies with so many visible stars and the Milky Way . It is a beauty that is hard to describe.
So far no one has mentioned Aspens, my absolute favorite tree in the world and everywhere in northern NM. I have a grove along the side of my back deck and two groves in my front yard in Edgewood. No need for a brook with bugs, the aspens make that lovely burbling serene sound, keeps the house super cool in summer, and gorgeous yellow in the fall.
Always nice in the autumn to look at the mountain and see the veins of gold aspens among the evergreens. We have some on our property too, and they do make that lovely rustling sound in the wind.
We are Texans who love New Mexico, one of our favorite destinations. Friends in Silver City and rest trips to Ruidoso to enjoy the mountains. The friendly people and great food...It's the best.
We visited New Mexico in 2021 and saw Albuquerque, Los Alamos, and Santa Fe. We ABSOLUTELY fell in love with the area from the landscape, people, food and wide open land. We loved it so much that 8 months later we went to Las Cruces and now plan to move there in the next several years. New Mexico is a well kept secret and I hope it stays that way...
Heck ya. Get out of this swamp. Thinking about it myself. Sucks about the rude comments. Guess they forget it's the United States of America. They'll probably freak out if I told them a liberal from Alabama is coming, lol.
One of my greatest desires is to one day visit New Mexico. There are not to many places in all the earth I'd rather visit. Thank you for sharing this video.
@@georgefloydspaceshuttlepro1839 Yes sir, it sure is. Well, let's see. One of my son's passed away recently and I'm taking care of my husband who has cancer and dementia. Some things like grief and caring for a loved one is more important than my wants/desires right now. But, one day soon, I hope, I will get to see the beautiful state of New Mexico.
My wife and I grew up in New Mexico, and it will always hold a special place in our hearts. As you mentioned, it's hard to beat the climate, food, or culture. It truely is "The Land of Enchantment"
New Mexico is my favorite state to visit as well. I love the wide open spaces, the weather, the people, the wildlife and the diverse terrain. Last fall I explored the extreme NE corner of the state. We headed east out of Raton toward the Black Mesa. We stopped at Johnson Mesa Church, Capulin Volcano, Clayton Lake State Park, Black Mesa State Park and made it to Clayton for dinner. Not once did I have another car approach us from behind. We could park in the middle of the road for photos anywhere along the way. After dinner we drove west toward Gladstone to check out the Milky Way. The skies there are about as light pollution free as it gets in the lower 48. It was truly an epic day.
I'm from New Mexico! Thank you for covering our state! So few people really know about our state or all that we have to offer, especially in our geography. We just get overlooked, or people only look at a few facts (like our high rate of auto-theft) and put us at the bottom of state-ranking lists by default. We're tiny (which contributes to our bad stats), but people who take the time to visit and understand us often fall in love with 'The Land of Enchantment'. Plus, I miss our food literally everything time I leave.
I have also spent A LOT of time both in Colorado and Texas, currently live in El Paso, TX, and have traveled a lot both inside and outside of the country. New Mexico is a unique cultural gem with incredible geography which needs to be experienced first-hand. I've truly enjoyed teaching my Mexican wife all about my home state throughout the years.
I live in NM and by far my favorite part about the state is the food, it's all so good. I probably don't go a day without some sort of New Mexico cuisine entering my mouth.
I am in Rhinelander, Wisconsin...I am sooo done with 7 months or so of lousy weather up here. We really only get about 4 months of decent weather. So I would like to relocate somewhere where I can go out and play disc golf and hike. I am looking at Alamegordo at this point. I am 60 years old and just done with winter...Lol's
Just found this video. I spent a week driving all around New Mexico in October. I loved it!! There are mountains everywhere. Ruidoso looks like Colorado. The green chile peppers are great. Pistachios were delicious. And the hot springs in Truth or Consequences were awesome. There are five national forests. Several National Parks. Balloon fiesta. Had a great time. It's beautiful.
I know and denver goes on and on about being the mile high city. Colorado can go to hell along with texas oklahoma nevada and arizona. would like to remain on friendly with mexico however, unlike all the surrounding states does have a rich culture, not unlike that of beloved nuevo mexico. Who ever heard of a colorado restaurant. we have texas bar b que, but they suck compared to stuffy's stuffed soppalpilla?
Thank you so much for sharing! I was born in Tucson Arizona and lived here for thirty years. I decided to move to Silver City, New Mexico and just loved it there. After being there for 12 years I move to Santa Fe for 7 years then I wound up in Velarde for a year. Now I've been back here in Tucson for 3 years because my dad is not well so I decided to come back. I will be moving back to Silver city next summer and can't wait! I became a New Mexican lol
I'm going home soon. Born in Clovis, N.M. and traveled all over the states and now I'm sick with cancer. I just want to go back home to finish my life like I started it. Peace and respect
I live in Corrales, NM and I'm completely in love with my village. Our climate is amazing and the food, omg, no other state can come close. For work reasons I was gone for ten years and it made me appreciate my home state even more. I love our tri-culture and having some room. Hope we don't become a fast growing state.
I moved away for a little while to CA while enrolling my kids in school they proudly said including the principal we cannot accept documents from another country my oldest daughter rolled her eyes and responded and you people are in the teaching business
When I moved to New York from New Mexico in 2007I tried to get a job at a supermarket and the interviewing manager and another employee kept telling me I didn’t have the proper identification (New Mexico driver’s license) to work there. The security guard had to tell these two idiots that New Mexico is a state in the Union. I’m back living in Albuquerque.
Even though I don't live in New Mexico I still find it funny that people seriously think it's another country or part of Mexico. LIKE SERIOUSLY. How stupid can people be lmao I feel sorry for you guys having to deal with these people that don't know it's a state
Hello, I loved your video about my home state, New Mexico, and I’m happy to know that it is one of your favorite states. I am a native New Mexican and I’ve always said that I will never leave it for good. I will live and die here. I love the beautiful bright blue, unpolluted skies, our wonderful food, the beautiful mountains, the nice areas where we can go out to hike and much much more about it. The one thing that stands out to me the most though would be that especially up in the Northern area, people are so friendly with one another. We do have some drug issues, unfortunately, but I know we’re not the only state that has them, but there are people here who are just so good hearted. I like that we are multicultural. If you’re ever in the area, don’t forget to visit areas like Velarde, where they grow beautiful apples, different kinds of apples, and other fruits as well. Also, visit small areas like Penasco, where there’s some beautiful scenery and streams to go fishing in. There’s also Abiquiu Lake where you can see some boats in the lake, and do some hiking, and camping. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, we prefer that you visit our beautiful state of NM after all of this Covid-19 virus clears up. But if you do travel to NM please wear your masks, do the 6 foot social distancing and keep us and yourselves safe in whatever ways necessary to do so. Thank you for your nice video, I enjoyed it.
We are debating where we will be going on our next western trip. So far northern NM and southern CO is at the top of the list. So far we have visited Southwestern and Central NM. We really enjoyed TorC. Sometime soon our health and Covid permitting.
I live in New Mexico and a lot of people don’t even know it’s a state. I think it’s so underrated and there’s so much stuff from people who lived way before and it has lots of history. :)
@@Gofamily222 might be. I don’t know. Never been there, but NEW Mexico was always plenty of fun for me. I think the sticker was hinting at the fact that there is an oddly large number of US citizens that ask the NM tourism folks questions about what sort of passport is required to enter NM. I know, that sounds unlikely, but it is apparently a very real situation. Some folks are just not the brightest bulbs. Of course, it also points to NM’s very long history. Some VERY OLD towns there, some of the oldest settled places in the US. of course, they were originally in use long before NM was a state or had that name.
@@hgj2019 New York, New England, New Hampshire, New Jersey, they aren’t new and they aren’t, England etc, was and is also known as Nuevo México for an long, long time.
Great video Geography King, but you left out one very important point, and that's dealing with the mesmerizing light that slowly creeps over the landscape as late afternoon turns into evening. New Mexico's sunsets are the most fabulous when compared to the other contiguous states. NM is in the top 3 of my favorite states, the other 2 being Alaska and Colorado.
Yes, we do have the most beautiful sunsets here in New Mexico, not sure if I had mentioned that on my previous post. Too bad I’m not an artist, otherwise I’d be painting them. Thankfully, I do have a camera phone that captures the beauty of these sunsets.
I love the Organ Mountains. They are just so unique looking with their jagged peaks. If you haven't been to Dripping Springs Natural Area on the outskirts of Las Cruces, I highly recommend it. Absolutely gorgeous views.
I love the high desert in Western New Mexico. The VLA is really cool. Albuquerque is a really cool town too. There's no place better than Frontier to eat when you're a little less than sober.
I stumbled on your channel. A lot of really good stuff, so interesting. New Mexico. I moved here in 2002. So much to like. I live in the NW corner. Close to the mountains in Colorado and Moab Utah. Red and green chili on everything.
Santa Fe, Rio Rancho, and Corrales are my favorite cities and villages in the state. The weather here is diverse, but not harsh; it gets hot and it rains in the summer and it gets cold and it snows in the winter. Lots of mountains and forests to hike through. Beautiful clouds in the morning and the evening. If want to live in a low maintenance place that has beautiful organic scenery, while still having an urban aesthetic, then northeastern Albuquerque and Santa Fe are the way to go. If you want a rural setting, live in Corrales. If you want very rural, then live in Las Cruces, Carlsbad, Roswell, and Los Alamos. Good food, decent people, and a set of mountains as a constant backdrop. The only cons I would point out are the crime and homeless in downtown and nob hill in Albuquerque, from my experience as a resident here since birth, it only happens in inner city Albuquerque. All I can say is to treat people with respect and you’ll fit right in. There’s no events happening right now due to COVID, but I’m certain once it’s over we’ll be having balloon fiestas, concerts, dance recitals, car shows, busking, and everything else that makes the New Mexico experience once again.
I've been through New Mexico several times and loved the fascination of the landscape, but a year ago I actually took a trip specifically to there and realized that they have the nicest people I have ever experienced everywhere. I am the kind of person who goes up and talks to strangers, but in New Mexico, people came up and talked with ME! And you are so right about the food there...OUT OF THIS WORLD! And I got to experience both kinds of good experiences I mentioned above, I was eating something unique to New Mexico and I told the waitress HOW MUCH I LOVED IT and she asked me where I was from and I said Los Angeles. That opened up the entire room full of diners talking with me about the unique New Mexican foods, "You've got to try this and that and the other thing," which I did, and they were right! I loved New Mexico and was very sad when I had to come back home. Oh, and I highly recommend to anybody (all ages!) Albuquerque's Balloon festival that lasts for about a week--out of this world experience and, again, with the nicest people in the world, millions of them.
I moved to Albuquerque 3 years ago from the Chicaaaago suburbs and noticed how nice the people here were too. They say excuse me and wave to me while I’m driving in the car. Many people asked me if I had found a church yet. Drivers patiently wait for pedestrians walking across the road. In Chicago we say you’d better get out of the way or I’ll run you over😂🤣😂.
I’ve been a New Mexican for 24 years and have loved it here. Glad your a fan. My favorite areas nearby my home in Santa Fe are the numerous sights/sites in the Jemez including the amazing Valle Caldera National Preserve, the area around Abiquiu and Ghost Ranch, as someone who is disabled a place like Cowles is special as it can get you up into the mountains with access to manageable trails.
After I left the Mekong Delta in December 1967, I was stationed at White Sands Missile Range near Las Cruces. I fell in love with the wide open spaces, the dry climate and no bugs. Did some hiking on the base at the foot of the Organ mountains. Beautiful! And the food was delicious and cheap.
Laotian refugee born fish n live on the Mekong aka Asia Mississippi thanks to the awesome biggest drug distributor the mighty CIA l to try to spend as many months as l can in NM weather perfect for this tan vampire alright alright alright alright alright
I have lived the entirety of my 43 years here in Clovis, New Mexico, located in the central eastern part of the state,10 miles from the Texas state line. Although this immediate area is mostly flat and not very scenic, we get to experience (in my opinion) the most amazing sunsets anywhere. My hometown is often unknown not only to outsiders, but often other New Mexicans are unfamiliar with Clovis. Which is ironic considering some of the oldest known human species hunted mastodon over a thousand years ago right here in my backyard. These stone age hunters utilized a distinctive shape of flint spear point that was sharp enough and strong enough to pierce the thick hide of the giant wolly mammoth. One of the first signs of human advancement, called Clovis Man, skillfully crafted this special shape of stone tool known as the Clovis Point, before we developed any known language. I love the rich history of my home state, which began long before a New Yorker named Henry McCarty took on the name of William H. Bonney , one of the most ruthless outlaws of the wild west became known as Billy the Kid. He is buried in Fort Sumner New Mexico, just 60 miles from Clovis, and some 300 plus miles he traveled on horseback running from the law in Lincoln New Mexico. I so enjoyed your show of love for my home state I was compelled to share some of these lesser known facts with you and your viewers. Would enjoy possibly seeing you shine more light on the rich and deep history your favorite state, and my HOME !
As a native New Mexican (born and raised in Las Cruces you pretty much nailed it. Some things I will add: - the cuisine is quite different between North and South. North is kind of its own thing and here in the south you can basically call it Mexican food - Ruidoso/Cloudcroft is my absolute favorite place in the state to visit. You get a beautiful wooded area and cool climate in a quaint little town without having to travel too far north. - not a fan of Albuquerque personally. The crime there has become more of an issue as of late but the annual hot air balloon festival is a must (or so I've heard, still haven't tried it myself) - haven't been to Santa Fe in a long time but I'm sure all the good things you've heard about it are true. From what I remember it was very nice - weather here down south can get quite hot, especially the past few years. Not unusual to get 100s for weeks on end, although it is dry heat which makes it better. And often I find myself wearing shorts late in December so obviously winters are very mild here - I personally always viewed southern NM and El Paso as sort of the same. Here in Southern NM we are pretty isolated from the majority of the rest of the NM population which is mostly up North and you could say the same for El Paso in Texas. I almost see EP as more New Mexican than Texan in some ways. - for those who aren't from NM, yes we also don't understand Roswell lol but we accept it for it's uniqueness - last but not least: if you visit you MUST try green chile cheeseburgers and the chile MUST be from Hatch! It is a lifechanger.
@@Ashley-fj3hq I wouldn't say El Paso is a part of NM as much as it is ignored by TX. Las Cruces is a lot closer than anywhere else in TX, and there is little difference between them. There are a lot of cultural and historical ties. I've lived in both places, and it's pretty hard to tell the difference.
Traveling across NM for my job at UNM, I always made a point to order enchiladas to compare and . All unique, all delicious. Sopapillas tend to be better at high altitudes.And Navajo Tacos are to die for. Always order that when I am on the rez.
I have been in New Mexico my whole life and my favorite part of the state is the central/southern part, specifically around the Socorro area. Its all empty and beautiful and small town New Mexico is unlike any other small towns in America. It makes me super happy that others can see the states beauty and worth the way I do.
They call it the Land of Enchantment for a reason. There is a an undefinable spiritual quality in many places. That's why it attracts artists. And Native Americans.
I’ve been living here for a little over 4 years and agree with your conclusion on the weather, food, geography and culture. One negative you left out was the academics and ranking on a national level for education... tough to raise a family here!
Education will improve overall in the US as a whole. I think we have hit rock bottom in this country this year if you look at the antics of grade school teachers and manipulation of children. Parents can give the best education by homeschooling . I believe that is on the rise.
Your insights are right on. Just visited New Mexico for the first time and already planning a repeat trip. The art and architecture is what really stood out to me. Even the variety of colorful license plates adds so much flavor. The backdrop of the landscape is totally appropriate to setting the scene for the cultural uniqueness of the state. I wouldn’t personally choose NM over California where I live but it’s definitely a lovely state to vacation to. Santa Fe is awesome. Will try Taos and Roswell next time around.
Grew up in El Paso and my Grandparents had a Cabin in Ruidoso NM up in the mountains at 7000 feet elevation. The cabin is still in the family and I try to get back there as much as possible. Have to get my New Mexican food and enjoy the cool mountain weather.
Yes, it's my favorite too! It's all about the light reflecting off the desert floor for me, and yes, all the good vibes. Love it! Thank you for posting all of your thoughts about it. I agree~
I have lived in many states, relocated to ABQ about a year ago, I'm enthralled to say the least. I'm a painter who was substituting teaching before the pandemic hit. Now, who knows what's going to happen. But, I'm really looking forward to indulging myself throughout this state. Fly fishing etc. Some of the people from my school, calarts, have relocated here. The most well known is Susan Rothenberg..Great painter, living somewhere outside of Santa Fe. I've really fallen in love with this state. Above all, so many people are the kindest I've ever met.
Thanks so much.....it’s easy to be kind when you live in a sunny, stress free place. Vijsit my brother n WA. Love it, great vistas, love the drizzly rain, but after a couple of weeks I go crazy....need my sun.
I moved to south central New Mexico a little over a year ago. I’m in a small town. It is a magical place where everyone gets along despite our differences.
Also if you’re ever back in Santa Fe and want to eat where the locals do and want the best green Chile in town, look up Horseman’s Haven. The Shed is good for red, but nothing beats the green at Horseman’s.
I’ve been there once filming Better Call Saul. Fell in love with the geography, the food and the space! Hiked the Albuquerque Volcanoes and was thrilled to find out how geologically active the state is.
NMSU has an agriculture lab where they just try to push the limits of spiciness in chile and hot sauce. They've created sauces that have hospitalized people. On top of the chile culture, Albuquerque has a Vietnamese diaspora that has joined us in testing the limits of how hot you can physically make your food before it's a delicious war crime. I have been sent to another dimension by some chile pastes and salsas. I love my state and I can't tolerate being anywhere else for too long because I'm addicted to the pain of the hottest food in the country and I can't get my fix anywhere else :)
The hottest thing I ever ate, or tried to eat, was a plate of green chile roast beef enchiladas at the now vanished Cowboy Cafe in Lemitar. I couldn't finish because I was full of water and sopapillas trying to put out the fire. The first bite was delicious, but after that I blocked out everything but the pain. Good times!
@@MidnightMimosa1 Why? I would direct you to the Cowboy Cafe, but that was 20 years ago, and the last time I drove past there (many years ago) it was something else. Memorable food, though.
Totally agree. I've been to over 30 countries and most US states, and I love New Mexico for the reasons you gave. And you may have said it but if not here it is: the people are so friendly. I live about 10 miles from the Atlantic Ocean in the middle of some of the biggest cities in the world. It is so refreshing to go to New Mexico at least twice a year. I just love it.
I'm also from California and have lived and traveled all over the U.S. I lived 10 years on the Texas, Louisiana border and traveled with my family to California yearly, always taking I-10 or 40 and thought that New Mexico and Arizona are the most boring states in the West. Then 7 years ago I moved to SE Arizona near New Mexico and found out that if you left the freeways these are some of the most beautiful states in the U.S. and it's not even crowded! Nice job on your videos and I can always relate to what you say.
driving east on I-40, approaching Albuquerque from the west, is one of the most stunning views in the U.S. the Sandia Mountains tower over the whole metro area, giving this epic feel, as you slowly descend into the city. That combined with the high elevation makes you feel like you're in a city up in the sky. Definitely has to be experienced in person, pictures I've seen don't do it justice.
Lived in ABQ NM for 10 years - loved it! Beautiful scenery, friendly people, the food BEST I had in the USA, and the culture unbelievable! I still have green chile on all my foods, turquoise jewelry, arts scene and weather just awesome. To each his own, but ABQ and NM is a hidden gem that has it's own pace and mystique all on it's own.
One of the most scenic drives in New Mexico is about a four hour drive that goes from Bernalillo to San Ysidro where you turn north through Jemez Pueblo and Jemez Springs which connects to a drive by of the fabulous Valles Caldera on to Los Alamos down to Santa Fe and return via I-25 to Bernalillo. Also a side visit to White Rock Canyon overlook near Los Alamos is pretty special.
I agree!! This is a spectacular drive!! The Valle Grande is awesome with it's new, little, baby cone. I'm so glad I wasn't there when the super volcano blew!!! Ride this route on a motorcycle and then you can really smell the forests. Really great, fresh scents!! Something you don't get in a car!
This is so nice to hear! I'm glad that somebody appreciates my state. I hear a lot of negatives but you've highlited all the positive reasons I love it here. Thanks!
Hard to believe you didn't mention The Sacramento Mountain area of Southeast NM with Ruidoso, historic Lincoln County and Cloudcroft. Having lived eight years of my retirement in Ruidoso at an altitude of 7500 feet, and traveling the state from corner to corner, I can tell you it's one of the most beautiful areas of the state. And if you want to see some of the off-the-beaten-path parts of the state, the drive from Socorro to Springerville, AZ is one that few folks take, as is the drive From Silver City to Alpine, AZ. That part of New Mexico is very sparsely populated--truly the Old West. The drive from Truth or Consequences up through the old mining towns to Mogollon is very scenic as is the drive from T or C to Silver City, both of which take you through more old mining towns such as Hillsboro, Winston and Bayard.
... My absolute favorite place in NM is Mexican canyon and the railroad to the clouds, love the old wooden trestle, I love to drive a fire road and camp where I get stuck...
Absolutely love the content, the attitude, the education... I've learned a lot more here than in school. I'm very interested in topography, climate, geography, and culture I'm learning from this channel. Great work!
I love New Mexico so much! Like Igpfamily5 said, the architecture is great. I loved my vacation there and I want to move there. I have never been happier than when I was in NM. The Acoma Sky City was amazing the visit. It is a 900 year old town on top of a plateau in a beautiful valley.
I visit Acoma once a year or so. A wonderful hike. In the summer the locals sell fresh pies and bread. Also, the jewelry and pottery is beautiful and 90% less than what you would pay in Santa Fe or Taos.
Aaaaargh. . Native New Mexican. Lived in Los Alamos, ABQ, Santa Fe and now Edgewood. Visited almost every corner of the state except there. Every year it is my New Year’s resolution.
I'm from the east coast, and I've visited New Mexico several times. It is really a hidden gem. I don't know what it's like to live in New Mexico, although I have friends who live there, but it is one of my favorite states to visit for its landscape, food, architecture, history, culture. Lovely place.
There is a Mexican import store north of Taos that looks small from the highway, but inside it's HUUUGE. I could have spent all day in there. Someday I'm going back with a wad of cash.
I just watched this video again. Now I live in New Mexico. Moved here 5 months ago. I love it for all the same reasons you do. I wanted to move here 28 years ago. Finally made it. Great state! Feels like home to me.
Having grown up in El Paso I've always loved New Mexico. Fun fact: former Civil War general Lew Wallace, who was a governor of the New Mexico territory, wrote Ben Hur.
I love New Mexico. Lived there for one year in Albuquerque after military service. Best darn food and chilis in the whole country, and a great climate. First time I ever had a good burrito, chili rellenos, pork stew with chili, etc. And then there's the Sopapillas! Plus you are right about the diversity. People there just get along with each other for the most part. Would love to live there again, but my wife cannot tear herself away from her family.
We went to Carlsbad and took the elevator down and then hiked back up. We then made the mistake of hiking up Guadalupe Peak the next day. We are hikers, not mountain climbers, so it was pretty rough! The Carlsbad / Guadalupe Peak / White Sands combo is a nice group of areas to chain together on a trip in that part of the country. Some of the views on Hwy 82 from Cloudcroft down to Alamogordo are pretty amazing.
I’m from Ireland and New Mexico is my favourite state and I have the flag above my bed
Coolest flag... with a great history. Based on Ancient Zia sign, but incredibly modern design and color.
@Lawrence Deshawn ye Idc, take your adds elsewhere
Nice
How sweet! Sending ❤️ from New Mexico!
🥺 you’re the best, A Burqueña sends love
I'm from Alaska, and I consistently tell anyone who will listen that New Mexico is by far the most beautiful place I've ever visited. My husband is from Italy and we live in Milan, and he and I agree that if we ever move back to the US, we'd like to move to Albuquerque. Everything about the city appeals to us, not just the scenery but the people too. Amazing state, my absolute favorite too.
I visited Albuquerque once. I really like the pueblo style homes.
Santa Fe is stunning as well.
Don't mind the meth heads and getting shot but other than that. It's a-okay.
Crime is really bad there . Somewhere close might be safer.
You think that New Mexico is more beautiful than Alaska?
this made me happy to hear about my state in a positive note! thank you!
Quit watching KOB, fearmongers in chief 😂
any time! from TX NM has always been the land of enchantment. Where should we visit there?
Agreed, Its refreshing to hear a good opinion of our state
❤❤❤❤❤
I lived in Las Cruces for a few years where my wife did her Masters at NMSU. My wife's from El Paso, I'm from Juarez and welove New Mexico, USA too!!
Love the people in Juarez
My home state, thank you; it truly is the land of enchantment! We also have some of the bluest skies in the united states due to the altitude and clean air.
The sky color captured me
ayyy my boi i also live in nm
We indeed have a beautiful state
Very true......bluest skies I have ever seen were by Santa Fe.
Stop telling everybody!
Hello from the Ramah Navajo Reservation. I enjoyed the video. And, I love my state of NM.
New Mexico also has Blake’s Lotaburger, which is my favorite burger joint when traveling through the state.
I often stop there as well when I'm driving through the state. All that spicy stuff before getting on the road for a few more hours isn't usually the best idea!
Left in 89, is Stuffy's stuffed sopilla still open.
@@johngillon6969 Yep!
@@jonsanchez141 That place must be over 60 years old. I miss it so much, haven't been back to new mexico since 1989. i miss it sometimes. Is mac's steak in the ruff there any more.
@@johngillon6969 Sure is! :-)
Some history that was omitted was that the first atomic bomb was built and detonated in New Mexico. The dozens of Indian Pueblos were also overlooked. Almost every pueblo also has its own gambling casino if that's your thing.
Fun fact, New Mexico originally wanted to be called the SUNSHINE STATE but that title was taken by Florida, which is ironic because it rains way more in Florida and New Mexico has more sunny days. The name LAND OF ENCHANTMENT was coined by the artist Georgia O'Keefe, who moved to New Mexico and fell in love with the scenery.
Yes and all the history of the Lincoln county war ! Billy the kid
BS on Georgia Okeefe. Where the heck did you come up with that nonsense?
ACTUALLY New Mexico was called the "Sunshine State" by the territorial governor, Bradford Prince in 1892. The slogan actually appeared on license plates beginning in 1932. Florida did not officially take over the name until 1970.
So true re Sunshine State, born and raised in FL.
Lol I imagine if Puerto Rico becomes a state they’ll have to change their motto because right now it’s “la isla del encanto” which translates to the island of enchantment. Very similar
As a geography teacher in El Paso, nice to see you like the land of enchantment. It's a hidden secret of the US.
Thanks! And we definitely need more geography teachers!
Great to see another El Pasoan in the comments! We are truly nestled into a great geographical area with two great neighbors and Texas's own Big Bend to explore.
@Jeff Holland I'm thinking it's really a pink state at this point in time, but with election rigging and all, it keeps showing up light blue ... 😒
It's my favorite state too. Born and raised. I wish it would stay a secret. Too many outsiders moving in. Way too many Texans.
@Jeff Holland There is too much political tribalization. People need to get over all of the political rhetoric and learn how to live with each other again. People are people. The rhetoric is there to manipulate voters and project views that people do not necessarily hold. People need to get over this garbage.
I’ve lived all over the US and finally made the move to Taos New Mexico last year from Sun Valley, ID. I drove into town having never been there. I was instantly under the spell of the land of enchantment. The most beautiful state and people ever. That’s why it’s an artist Mecca. And not just painters but also writers. It’s so goddamn inspiring. You hit everything I love about the state. I tell people it’s as close as you can get to being in another country while still in the US. It’s just a completely different culture. Thank you! It’s the hidden gem of all the US.
Sun Valley to Taos? The cost of living has got to be much lower in Taos right? Are you saving a bunch of money or is it comprable to SV?
@@IntensePeppers The cost of living in Taos is higher than some other areas I've lived in; don't know about Sun Valley.
Because of transportation inefficiencies and smaller markets, you can expect to pay more for fresh food, for example, than in many parts of the country. Fuel can be more expensive here too, though you may well use a lot less of it - our home heating bills are about 20% of what we paid in Michigan. (And we live at high elevation so we don't need A/C.) Because of that, and because like a lot of people around here we get some of our heat from burning wood, we likely save on our domestic costs overall.
Right now property prices are quite inflated, so housing costs are an issue for many folks. AirBnB undermined the long-term rentals (though the town and county are starting to crack down on that) and both existing homes and new construction are quite expensive relative to historical trends and some other areas.
And, of course, the one thing people *really* need to pay attention to when moving to the area is water. What's your water source? How reliable is it? Do you have surface-water (acequia) rights? (And if you do, are you prepared to be a good parciante and help with ditch maintenance?) Agua es vida.
It's also important to think about where you're going to live. The canyons are pretty, but think about how much sunlight you'll get in the winter months and what the fire danger will be in the summer. There's a reason the Pueblos and Spanish settlements are located where they are.
It's always good to have new people coming in who respect and appreciate the traditions. There's a certain amount of carpetbagging from some of the wealthier, more arrogant new arrivals who want to turn Taos into another Jackson Hole or something. Taos politics are ... energetic. There's no shortage of eccentricity around here. It won't be to everyone's taste but if it's your sort of place it can really be very appealing.
Seriously hush !
It definitely is an artist’s haven!!
Taos same!
It's cool you like our state! Just remember it's not just the Navajo natives that are here. There's Pueblo natives here too. Acoma Pueblo, Laguna Pueblo, Taos Pueblo, Santo Domingo Pueblo etc.
They're the unsung heroes of the state. They own so much land and prevent the government and corporations from spreading and polluting. Without them the state would lose so much of nature and the sunset.
Mescaleros as well
NM has the most native culture in one state and a few are worth over one mil with their casino industry alone.
I really appreciate the fact you point out our cuisine in not Mexican nor Tex-Mex, as our food is a huge part of our culture. For what its worth though the Navajo language is called Diné, not navajo, and its mostly only an official language in the north western part of the state.
I love Tex Mex, real Mex, NM Mex, Cali Mex, and I missing anything? 😆
Am*
Chex mix
Hahahaha 😂
Navajo people also call themselves Diné (which is just an Athabascan word that means "people"). This is a bit pedantic though since the term Navajo is also used.
Your video is the most comprehensive yet on our state. I first saw New Mexico when I was a mere youth of 13. I vowed then that I would return and live there. It took eight years, but I returned at age 21 and have lived here, happily, ever since.
as someone who lives in new mexico, i feel very ✨appreciated✨
Same 😂🌝
I absolutely love New Mexico. It has so many surprises and beautiful landscapes, beautiful people and fantastic cuisine. There is a very spiritual quality I can sense when I am there. I can’t not mention the skies. They are amazing- the sunrises, sunsets and even the storms. My favorite is the night skies with so many visible stars and the Milky Way . It is a beauty that is hard to describe.
I live in New Mexico, and have been here all my life. I haven't seen many videos about New Mexico like this one! Great job
So far no one has mentioned Aspens, my absolute favorite tree in the world and everywhere in northern NM. I have a grove along the side of my back deck and two groves in my front yard in Edgewood. No need for a brook with bugs, the aspens make that lovely burbling serene sound, keeps the house super cool in summer, and gorgeous yellow in the fall.
Mount Taylor by Grants also has aspens they’re quite pretty
Always nice in the autumn to look at the mountain and see the veins of gold aspens among the evergreens. We have some on our property too, and they do make that lovely rustling sound in the wind.
Aspens are THE MOST beautiful trees in the world. I love them.
We are Texans who love New Mexico, one of our favorite destinations. Friends in Silver City and rest trips to Ruidoso to enjoy the mountains. The friendly people and great food...It's the best.
We visited New Mexico in 2021 and saw Albuquerque, Los Alamos, and Santa Fe. We ABSOLUTELY fell in love with the area from the landscape, people, food and wide open land. We loved it so much that 8 months later we went to Las Cruces and now plan to move there in the next several years. New Mexico is a well kept secret and I hope it stays that way...
The people? In Albuquerque? Riiiiiighht…
It’s too late, there are people from overpriced states moving over here by the herds. Especially near Albuquerque and surrounding areas.
Thank you for highlighting the amazing aspects of this most mysterious state.
I've been to 45 states so far and this is definitely in my top 5 states. The culture and landscape are wholly unique and lovely
I moved here (New Mexico) from Houston 3 and a half years ago and it has been one of the best decisions that I have made in my life!!!!
WAY TO MANY TEXANS HERE!! Go back home Texas misses ya'll.
Heck ya. Get out of this swamp. Thinking about it myself. Sucks about the rude comments. Guess they forget it's the United States of America. They'll probably freak out if I told them a liberal from Alabama is coming, lol.
How the crime
@@desertrose5161 Don't worry axewipe. We will come back to claim the rest of our nation once the US falls apart. Viva la Tejas!
Good for you!!! I wish that everyone would live in a place that is enhancing for them, wherever that may be.
One of my greatest desires is to one day visit New Mexico. There are not to many places in all the earth I'd rather visit. Thank you for sharing this video.
I'm glad it was useful for you. I hope you get there soon.
Sharon, it really is beautiful here.
What's prevented you so far? It is attached to the rest if the country
@@georgefloydspaceshuttlepro1839 Yes sir, it sure is. Well, let's see. One of my son's passed away recently and I'm taking care of my husband who has cancer and dementia. Some things like grief and caring for a loved one is more important than my wants/desires right now. But, one day soon, I hope, I will get to see the beautiful state of New Mexico.
@@sharonallen6921 sorry for your losses
My wife and I grew up in New Mexico, and it will always hold a special place in our hearts. As you mentioned, it's hard to beat the climate, food, or culture. It truely is "The Land of Enchantment"
New Mexico is my favorite state to visit as well. I love the wide open spaces, the weather, the people, the wildlife and the diverse terrain. Last fall I explored the extreme NE corner of the state. We headed east out of Raton toward the Black Mesa. We stopped at Johnson Mesa Church, Capulin Volcano, Clayton Lake State Park, Black Mesa State Park and made it to Clayton for dinner. Not once did I have another car approach us from behind. We could park in the middle of the road for photos anywhere along the way. After dinner we drove west toward Gladstone to check out the Milky Way. The skies there are about as light pollution free as it gets in the lower 48. It was truly an epic day.
I'm from New Mexico! Thank you for covering our state! So few people really know about our state or all that we have to offer, especially in our geography. We just get overlooked, or people only look at a few facts (like our high rate of auto-theft) and put us at the bottom of state-ranking lists by default. We're tiny (which contributes to our bad stats), but people who take the time to visit and understand us often fall in love with 'The Land of Enchantment'. Plus, I miss our food literally everything time I leave.
I have also spent A LOT of time both in Colorado and Texas, currently live in El Paso, TX, and have traveled a lot both inside and outside of the country. New Mexico is a unique cultural gem with incredible geography which needs to be experienced first-hand. I've truly enjoyed teaching my Mexican wife all about my home state throughout the years.
Thank you for your honesty here.
If your roots are from New Mexico you will always come back no where do I both hate and love at the same time.
I live in NM and by far my favorite part about the state is the food, it's all so good. I probably don't go a day without some sort of New Mexico cuisine entering my mouth.
When I moved to TX for a little while, I went through chile withdrawal!
Agree. Sometimes a month will go by...and I have to have my favorite: traditional flat, red, blue-corn enchilada. But no egg on top. A shed enchilada.
I've lived in New Mexico for 18 years after being raised in Wisconsin. All the reasons you state in the video are the reasons I am here.
I am in Rhinelander, Wisconsin...I am sooo done with 7 months or so of lousy weather up here. We really only get about 4 months of decent weather. So I would like to relocate somewhere where I can go out and play disc golf and hike. I am looking at Alamegordo at this point. I am 60 years old and just done with winter...Lol's
Just found this video. I spent a week driving all around New Mexico in October. I loved it!! There are mountains everywhere. Ruidoso looks like Colorado. The green chile peppers are great. Pistachios were delicious. And the hot springs in Truth or Consequences were awesome. There are five national forests. Several National Parks. Balloon fiesta. Had a great time. It's beautiful.
Fun fact about Santa Fe, it is the highest elevated capitol in the US at 7200ft.
Another fun fact is that Santa Fe was founded in 1610 making it the oldest state capitol too.
@@roncrotzer9861 bless the spanish
That wasn't that fun 🤷🏻♂️
I know and denver goes on and on about being the mile high city. Colorado can go to hell along with texas oklahoma nevada and arizona. would like to remain on friendly with mexico however, unlike all the surrounding states does have a rich culture, not unlike that of beloved nuevo mexico. Who ever heard of a colorado restaurant. we have texas bar b que, but they suck compared to stuffy's stuffed soppalpilla?
@@johngillon6969 what is Stuffy's stuffed soppapilla born raised and still living in santa fe going to look it up right now.
Thank you so much for sharing! I was born in Tucson Arizona and lived here for thirty years. I decided to move to Silver City, New Mexico and just loved it there. After being there for 12 years I move to Santa Fe for 7 years then I wound up in Velarde for a year. Now I've been back here in Tucson for 3 years because my dad is not well so I decided to come back. I will be moving back to Silver city next summer and can't wait! I became a New Mexican lol
I'm going home soon. Born in Clovis, N.M. and traveled all over the states and now I'm sick with cancer. I just want to go back home to finish my life like I started it. Peace and respect
I live in Corrales, NM and I'm completely in love with my village. Our climate is amazing and the food, omg, no other state can come close. For work reasons I was gone for ten years and it made me appreciate my home state even more. I love our tri-culture and having some room. Hope we don't become a fast growing state.
My dad lives in corrales too
Yeah Corrales is gr8
I live down the road near cottonwood mall off of Irving. Corrales is supposed to be the safest city in NM. I love it there too.
@@louannhuber2651
The property is not a bargan.... but it is a wonderful community.
Wish I could afford to live there.
I moved away for a little while to CA while enrolling my kids in school they proudly said including the principal we cannot accept documents from another country my oldest daughter rolled her eyes and responded and you people are in the teaching business
I was told I needed a passport to rent a room in California with my New Mexico Drivers license people in California are stupid.
@@mtz21601 hahahahahaahhbhahahaha OMG and i truly believe you
When I moved to New York from New Mexico in 2007I tried to get a job at a supermarket and the interviewing manager and another employee kept telling me I didn’t have the proper identification (New Mexico driver’s license) to work there. The security guard had to tell these two idiots that New Mexico is a state in the Union. I’m back living in Albuquerque.
@@monisolaelliott9346 stay away from New York hahahaahah wow OMG glad your back
Even though I don't live in New Mexico I still find it funny that people seriously think it's another country or part of Mexico. LIKE SERIOUSLY.
How stupid can people be lmao
I feel sorry for you guys having to deal with these people that don't know it's a state
Hello, I loved your video about my home state, New Mexico, and I’m happy to know that it is one of your favorite states. I am a native New Mexican and I’ve always said that I will never leave it for good. I will live and die here. I love the beautiful bright blue, unpolluted skies, our wonderful food, the beautiful mountains, the nice areas where we can go out to hike and much much more about it. The one thing that stands out to me the most though would be that especially up in the Northern area, people are so friendly with one another. We do have some drug issues, unfortunately, but I know we’re not the only state that has them, but there are people here who are just so good hearted. I like that we are multicultural.
If you’re ever in the area, don’t forget to visit areas like Velarde, where they grow beautiful apples, different kinds of apples, and other fruits as well. Also, visit small areas like Penasco, where there’s some beautiful scenery and streams to go fishing in. There’s also Abiquiu Lake where you can see some boats in the lake, and do some hiking, and camping.
Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, we prefer that you visit our beautiful state of NM after all of this Covid-19 virus clears up. But if you do travel to NM please wear your masks, do the 6 foot social distancing and keep us and yourselves safe in whatever ways necessary to do so.
Thank you for your nice video, I enjoyed it.
We are debating where we will be going on our next western trip. So far northern NM and southern CO is at the top of the list. So far we have visited Southwestern and Central NM. We really enjoyed TorC.
Sometime soon our health and Covid permitting.
New Mexico is beautiful and I do think they have the best food. Watching this made my mouth water. Hatch green chilies are the best.
When referring to new mexico its Chile lol chili is that Texas canned shit
We are in New Hampshire and have some Hatch Chilles in the freezer and some bottled green chiller in the fridge.
.... I'm just ove here like " I only eat hatch chile's when we run out of the good stuff...."
I live in New Mexico and a lot of people don’t even know it’s a state. I think it’s so underrated and there’s so much stuff from people who lived way before and it has lots of history. :)
My favorite bumper sticker - “New Mexico-It ain’t new and it ain’t Mexico”
@@Gofamily222 might be. I don’t know. Never been there, but NEW Mexico was always plenty of fun for me.
I think the sticker was hinting at the fact that there is an oddly large number of US citizens that ask the NM tourism folks questions about what sort of passport is required to enter NM. I know, that sounds unlikely, but it is apparently a very real situation. Some folks are just not the brightest bulbs. Of course, it also points to NM’s very long history. Some VERY OLD towns there, some of the oldest settled places in the US. of course, they were originally in use long before NM was a state or had that name.
What is your point
@@zapatavive8957 why do you ask?
@@hgj2019 New York, New England, New Hampshire, New Jersey, they aren’t new and they aren’t, England etc, was and is also known as Nuevo México for an long, long time.
@@zapatavive8957 it’s a BUMPER STICKER, not a legal description of the state.
Great video Geography King, but you left out one very important point, and that's dealing with the mesmerizing light that slowly creeps over the landscape as late afternoon turns into evening. New Mexico's sunsets are the most fabulous when compared to the other contiguous states. NM is in the top 3 of my favorite states, the other 2 being Alaska and Colorado.
Yes, we do have the most beautiful sunsets here in New Mexico, not sure if I had mentioned that on my previous post. Too bad I’m not an artist, otherwise I’d be painting them. Thankfully, I do have a camera phone that captures the beauty of these sunsets.
I love the Organ Mountains. They are just so unique looking with their jagged peaks. If you haven't been to Dripping Springs Natural Area on the outskirts of Las Cruces, I highly recommend it. Absolutely gorgeous views.
I love the high desert in Western New Mexico. The VLA is really cool. Albuquerque is a really cool town too. There's no place better than Frontier to eat when you're a little less than sober.
I stumbled on your channel. A lot of really good stuff, so interesting.
New Mexico. I moved here in 2002. So much to like. I live in the NW corner. Close to the mountains in Colorado and Moab Utah.
Red and green chili on everything.
Santa Fe, Rio Rancho, and Corrales are my favorite cities and villages in the state. The weather here is diverse, but not harsh; it gets hot and it rains in the summer and it gets cold and it snows in the winter. Lots of mountains and forests to hike through. Beautiful clouds in the morning and the evening. If want to live in a low maintenance place that has beautiful organic scenery, while still having an urban aesthetic, then northeastern Albuquerque and Santa Fe are the way to go. If you want a rural setting, live in Corrales. If you want very rural, then live in Las Cruces, Carlsbad, Roswell, and Los Alamos. Good food, decent people, and a set of mountains as a constant backdrop. The only cons I would point out are the crime and homeless in downtown and nob hill in Albuquerque, from my experience as a resident here since birth, it only happens in inner city Albuquerque. All I can say is to treat people with respect and you’ll fit right in. There’s no events happening right now due to COVID, but I’m certain once it’s over we’ll be having balloon fiestas, concerts, dance recitals, car shows, busking, and everything else that makes the New Mexico experience once again.
Las Cruces is not "very rural"
Come to Taos
I've been through New Mexico several times and loved the fascination of the landscape, but a year ago I actually took a trip specifically to there and realized that they have the nicest people I have ever experienced everywhere. I am the kind of person who goes up and talks to strangers, but in New Mexico, people came up and talked with ME! And you are so right about the food there...OUT OF THIS WORLD! And I got to experience both kinds of good experiences I mentioned above, I was eating something unique to New Mexico and I told the waitress HOW MUCH I LOVED IT and she asked me where I was from and I said Los Angeles. That opened up the entire room full of diners talking with me about the unique New Mexican foods, "You've got to try this and that and the other thing," which I did, and they were right! I loved New Mexico and was very sad when I had to come back home. Oh, and I highly recommend to anybody (all ages!) Albuquerque's Balloon festival that lasts for about a week--out of this world experience and, again, with the nicest people in the world, millions of them.
I moved to Albuquerque 3 years ago from the Chicaaaago suburbs and noticed how nice the people here were too. They say excuse me and wave to me while I’m driving in the car. Many people asked me if I had found a church yet. Drivers patiently wait for pedestrians walking across the road. In Chicago we say you’d better get out of the way or I’ll run you over😂🤣😂.
I'm sure biscochitos were one of those suggestions!
I’ve been a New Mexican for 24 years and have loved it here. Glad your a fan. My favorite areas nearby my home in Santa Fe are the numerous sights/sites in the Jemez including the amazing Valle Caldera National Preserve, the area around Abiquiu and Ghost Ranch, as someone who is disabled a place like Cowles is special as it can get you up into the mountains with access to manageable trails.
After I left the Mekong Delta in December 1967, I was stationed at White Sands Missile Range near Las Cruces. I fell in love with the wide open spaces, the dry climate and no bugs. Did some hiking on the base at the foot of the Organ mountains. Beautiful! And the food was delicious and cheap.
Laotian refugee born fish n live on the Mekong aka Asia Mississippi thanks to the awesome biggest drug distributor the mighty CIA l to try to spend as many months as l can in NM weather perfect for this tan vampire alright alright alright alright alright
I have lived the entirety of my 43 years here in Clovis, New Mexico, located in the central eastern part of the state,10 miles from the Texas state line. Although this immediate area is mostly flat and not very scenic, we get to experience (in my opinion) the most amazing sunsets anywhere. My hometown is often unknown not only to outsiders, but often other New Mexicans are unfamiliar with Clovis. Which is ironic considering some of the oldest known human species hunted mastodon over a thousand years ago right here in my backyard. These stone age hunters utilized a distinctive shape of flint spear point that was sharp enough and strong enough to pierce the thick hide of the giant wolly mammoth. One of the first signs of human advancement, called Clovis Man, skillfully crafted this special shape of stone tool known as the Clovis Point, before we developed any known language.
I love the rich history of my home state, which began long before a New Yorker named Henry McCarty took on the name of William H. Bonney , one of the most ruthless outlaws of the wild west became known as Billy the Kid. He is buried in Fort Sumner New Mexico, just 60 miles from Clovis, and some 300 plus miles he traveled on horseback running from the law in Lincoln New Mexico.
I so enjoyed your show of love for my home state I was compelled to share some of these lesser known facts with you and your viewers. Would enjoy possibly seeing you shine more light on the rich and deep history your favorite state, and my HOME !
As a native New Mexican (born and raised in Las Cruces you pretty much nailed it. Some things I will add:
- the cuisine is quite different between North and South. North is kind of its own thing and here in the south you can basically call it Mexican food
- Ruidoso/Cloudcroft is my absolute favorite place in the state to visit. You get a beautiful wooded area and cool climate in a quaint little town without having to travel too far north.
- not a fan of Albuquerque personally. The crime there has become more of an issue as of late but the annual hot air balloon festival is a must (or so I've heard, still haven't tried it myself)
- haven't been to Santa Fe in a long time but I'm sure all the good things you've heard about it are true. From what I remember it was very nice
- weather here down south can get quite hot, especially the past few years. Not unusual to get 100s for weeks on end, although it is dry heat which makes it better. And often I find myself wearing shorts late in December so obviously winters are very mild here
- I personally always viewed southern NM and El Paso as sort of the same. Here in Southern NM we are pretty isolated from the majority of the rest of the NM population which is mostly up North and you could say the same for El Paso in Texas. I almost see EP as more New Mexican than Texan in some ways.
- for those who aren't from NM, yes we also don't understand Roswell lol but we accept it for it's uniqueness
- last but not least: if you visit you MUST try green chile cheeseburgers and the chile MUST be from Hatch! It is a lifechanger.
I'm from Silver City and I also always considered El Paso part of NM... I wonder if they feel the same way 😂
@@Ashley-fj3hq I wouldn't say El Paso is a part of NM as much as it is ignored by TX. Las Cruces is a lot closer than anywhere else in TX, and there is little difference between them. There are a lot of cultural and historical ties. I've lived in both places, and it's pretty hard to tell the difference.
Traveling across NM for my job at UNM, I always made a point to order enchiladas to compare and . All unique, all delicious. Sopapillas tend to be better at high altitudes.And Navajo Tacos are to die for. Always order that when I am on the rez.
I have been in New Mexico my whole life and my favorite part of the state is the central/southern part, specifically around the Socorro area. Its all empty and beautiful and small town New Mexico is unlike any other small towns in America. It makes me super happy that others can see the states beauty and worth the way I do.
They call it the Land of Enchantment for a reason. There is a an undefinable spiritual quality in many places. That's why it attracts artists. And Native Americans.
Agreed...I feel so at peace when I’m in NM ❤️
And the land of Mañana! Which is my favorite part 😅😂
Lame
AKA the Land of Entrapment.. once your here you want to stay
@@iwritechecksatthegrocerystore lol I’ll do it tomorrow
Great video! I love your enthusiasm for New Mexico. I'd love to move there. We're hoping to visit and check it out soon.
Shhhh... We're trying to stay a secret 😉
Exactly.
Balls, I've been all over New Mexico and I love it, I'm not keeping it a secret.
@Jeff Holland Not that I ever noticed, bollocks to politics.
@Jeff Holland How so?
@Jeff Holland It's mind boggling that people from NM would vote for Biden whos vowed to stop fracking which is our #1 money maker for our state
Greetings from Las Vegas, New Mexico!!!
AH. LAS VEGAS. BEEN HERE SINCE 1975. I LOVE IT. EAST OR WEST?
@@donaldinnewmexico East!!!! Lol!
@@joshs9239 RED OR GREEN? LOL.
@@donaldinnewmexico Christmas! Haha!
@@joshs9239 LOL JOSH
I’ve been living here for a little over 4 years and agree with your conclusion on the weather, food, geography and culture. One negative you left out was the academics and ranking on a national level for education... tough to raise a family here!
Poor school quality and poverty tend to go hand in hand. One feeds into the other and it is a vicious cycle.
The poor rankings are due in large part to the high dropout rate. If kids stay in school they can get a reasonable education in this state.
Education will improve overall in the US as a whole. I think we have hit rock bottom in this country this year if you look at the antics of grade school teachers and manipulation of children. Parents can give the best education by homeschooling . I believe that is on the rise.
I was amazed how pretty the drive was up I25 going from las Cruces to Colorado
Your insights are right on. Just visited New Mexico for the first time and already planning a repeat trip. The art and architecture is what really stood out to me. Even the variety of colorful license plates adds so much flavor. The backdrop of the landscape is totally appropriate to setting the scene for the cultural uniqueness of the state. I wouldn’t personally choose NM over California where I live but it’s definitely a lovely state to vacation to. Santa Fe is awesome. Will try Taos and Roswell next time around.
My parents were from New Mexico but raised us kids in Chicago. I miss the state and long to live there. Thanks for the great video!!
Grew up in El Paso and my Grandparents had a Cabin in Ruidoso NM up in the mountains at 7000 feet elevation. The cabin is still in the family and I try to get back there as much as possible. Have to get my New Mexican food and enjoy the cool mountain weather.
I GREW UP IN EL PASO AND SPENT SUMMERS IN RUIDOSO. I HATE THE HEAT TO THIS DAY. I LIVE IN THE NORTHERN MOUNTAINS NEAR SANTA FE NOW.
Love how genuine and honest all your vids are. Thanks for all of them.
Thank you for saying New Mexico is your favorite state, it the state I call home, I was born in New Mexico and I don't see myself living anywhere else
Love your positive outlook!
Those roasted green chiles are magic! You can get them frozen and shipped in big blocks. Worth it!
Yes, it's my favorite too! It's all about the light reflecting off the desert floor for me, and yes, all the good vibes. Love it! Thank you for posting all of your thoughts about it. I agree~
I have lived in many states, relocated to ABQ about a year ago, I'm enthralled to say the least. I'm a painter who was substituting teaching before the pandemic hit. Now, who knows what's going to happen. But, I'm really looking forward to indulging myself throughout this state. Fly fishing etc. Some of the people from my school, calarts, have relocated here. The most well known is Susan Rothenberg..Great painter, living somewhere outside of Santa Fe. I've really fallen in love with this state. Above all, so many people are the kindest I've ever met.
Thanks so much.....it’s easy to be kind when you live in a sunny, stress free place. Vijsit my brother n WA. Love it, great vistas, love the drizzly rain, but after a couple of weeks I go crazy....need my sun.
beautiful
I moved to south central New Mexico a little over a year ago. I’m in a small town. It is a magical place where everyone gets along despite our differences.
Greetings from Santa Fe. Your channel popped up in my recommends and I'm glad to know you love our weird pretty state.
Also if you’re ever back in Santa Fe and want to eat where the locals do and want the best green Chile in town, look up Horseman’s Haven. The Shed is good for red, but nothing beats the green at Horseman’s.
I’ve been there once filming Better Call Saul. Fell in love with the geography, the food and the space! Hiked the Albuquerque Volcanoes and was thrilled to find out how geologically active the state is.
Thank you for speaking so highly of my home.😊
Thank you! Your delivery is very gentle. Yes to the landscape, food and history!
NMSU has an agriculture lab where they just try to push the limits of spiciness in chile and hot sauce. They've created sauces that have hospitalized people.
On top of the chile culture, Albuquerque has a Vietnamese diaspora that has joined us in testing the limits of how hot you can physically make your food before it's a delicious war crime. I have been sent to another dimension by some chile pastes and salsas.
I love my state and I can't tolerate being anywhere else for too long because I'm addicted to the pain of the hottest food in the country and I can't get my fix anywhere else :)
The hottest thing I ever ate, or tried to eat, was a plate of green chile roast beef enchiladas at the now vanished Cowboy Cafe in Lemitar. I couldn't finish because I was full of water and sopapillas trying to put out the fire. The first bite was delicious, but after that I blocked out everything but the pain. Good times!
I swear the Vietnamese restaurants have the hottest jalapeños in town!
@@howardsmith9342 god I'm so jealous of you
@@MidnightMimosa1 Why? I would direct you to the Cowboy Cafe, but that was 20 years ago, and the last time I drove past there (many years ago) it was something else. Memorable food, though.
Yeah, after being to India I can't agree that NM is the Chile capital of the world. But maybe of the USA.
Totally agree. I've been to over 30 countries and most US states, and I love New Mexico for the reasons you gave. And you may have said it but if not here it is: the people are so friendly. I live about 10 miles from the Atlantic Ocean in the middle of some of the biggest cities in the world. It is so refreshing to go to New Mexico at least twice a year. I just love it.
I'm also from California and have lived and traveled all over the U.S. I lived 10 years on the Texas, Louisiana border and traveled with my family to California yearly, always taking I-10 or 40 and thought that New Mexico and Arizona are the most boring states in the West. Then 7 years ago I moved to SE Arizona near New Mexico and found out that if you left the freeways these are some of the most beautiful states in the U.S. and it's not even crowded! Nice job on your videos and I can always relate to what you say.
please don't tell anyone
I have to agree that making that crossing on I-10 is sheer torture.
Las Vegas New Mexico has some impressive architecture. Restored hotels, pretty nature, and more.
Thank you from New Mexico ❤️💛
I'm from upstate NY and it's my favorite state also!
I lived in New Mexico as a kid. Seeing your pictures of the food just made me miss it like crazy. So yummy.
mine to i live just south of roswell.good video!
Definitely one of my most favorite places I’ve ever been.
It is my favorite state too. I love the closeness of the sky and the light. And coming from East Texas, the lack of humidity is beautiful!
driving east on I-40, approaching Albuquerque from the west, is one of the most stunning views in the U.S. the Sandia Mountains tower over the whole metro area, giving this epic feel, as you slowly descend into the city. That combined with the high elevation makes you feel like you're in a city up in the sky. Definitely has to be experienced in person, pictures I've seen don't do it justice.
You are right. Beautiful and wonderful climate
I've lived her in NM since 2004. The people are wonderful and so many places to go.
Lived in ABQ NM for 10 years - loved it! Beautiful scenery, friendly people, the food BEST I had in the USA, and the culture unbelievable! I still have green chile on all my foods, turquoise jewelry, arts scene and weather just awesome. To each his own, but ABQ and NM is a hidden gem that has it's own pace and mystique all on it's own.
One of the most scenic drives in New Mexico is about a four hour drive that goes from Bernalillo to San Ysidro where you turn north through Jemez Pueblo and Jemez Springs which connects to a drive by of the fabulous Valles Caldera on to Los Alamos down to Santa Fe and return via I-25 to Bernalillo. Also a side visit to White Rock Canyon overlook near Los Alamos is pretty special.
I agree!! This is a spectacular drive!! The Valle Grande is awesome with it's new, little, baby cone. I'm so glad I wasn't there when the super volcano blew!!! Ride this route on a motorcycle and then you can really smell the forests. Really great, fresh scents!! Something you don't get in a car!
Beautiful drive.
High Road to Taos loop (going up the gorge, back through Truchas) is also just an awesome drive. Done it 50+ times, never gets old.
This is so nice to hear! I'm glad that somebody appreciates my state. I hear a lot of negatives but you've highlited all the positive reasons I love it here. Thanks!
Hard to believe you didn't mention The Sacramento Mountain area of Southeast NM with Ruidoso, historic Lincoln County and Cloudcroft. Having lived eight years of my retirement in Ruidoso at an altitude of 7500 feet, and traveling the state from corner to corner, I can tell you it's one of the most beautiful areas of the state.
And if you want to see some of the off-the-beaten-path parts of the state, the drive from Socorro to Springerville, AZ is one that few folks take, as is the drive From Silver City to Alpine, AZ. That part of New Mexico is very sparsely populated--truly the Old West.
The drive from Truth or Consequences up through the old mining towns to Mogollon is very scenic as is the drive from T or C to Silver City, both of which take you through more old mining towns such as Hillsboro, Winston and Bayard.
... My absolute favorite place in NM is Mexican canyon and the railroad to the clouds, love the old wooden trestle, I love to drive a fire road and camp where I get stuck...
I grew up on the East coast, but the “Land of Entrapment” got me. I’m loving NM now.
My wife and I are planning on retiring here, we currently live in Colorado, which we do enjoy, but it's pricey. Great Information!!!
If you think Colorado is pricey leave New Mexico off your list.
Absolutely love the content, the attitude, the education... I've learned a lot more here than in school. I'm very interested in topography, climate, geography, and culture I'm learning from this channel. Great work!
I love New Mexico so much! Like Igpfamily5 said, the architecture is great. I loved my vacation there and I want to move there. I have never been happier than when I was in NM. The Acoma Sky City was amazing the visit. It is a 900 year old town on top of a plateau in a beautiful valley.
I visit Acoma once a year or so. A wonderful hike. In the summer the locals sell fresh pies and bread. Also, the jewelry and pottery is beautiful and 90% less than what you would pay in Santa Fe or Taos.
Aaaaargh. . Native New Mexican. Lived in Los Alamos, ABQ, Santa Fe and now Edgewood. Visited almost every corner of the state except there. Every year it is my New Year’s resolution.
new mexico has always interested me , as someone from georgia
Thank you for doing this video! I love my state!
I'm from the east coast, and I've visited New Mexico several times. It is really a hidden gem. I don't know what it's like to live in New Mexico, although I have friends who live there, but it is one of my favorite states to visit for its landscape, food, architecture, history, culture. Lovely place.
New Mexico is one of my favorite states as well, especially the NC-NE area near Taos and the Enchanted Circle.
YEP
There is a Mexican import store north of Taos that looks small from the highway, but inside it's HUUUGE. I could have spent all day in there. Someday I'm going back with a wad of cash.
@Hank Mason It's definitely not NW. Pull up a map of the state and draw a line down the center.
I just watched this video again. Now I live in New Mexico. Moved here 5 months ago. I love it for all the same reasons you do. I wanted to move here 28 years ago. Finally made it. Great state! Feels like home to me.
Having grown up in El Paso I've always loved New Mexico.
Fun fact: former Civil War general Lew Wallace, who was a governor of the New Mexico territory, wrote Ben Hur.
I love New Mexico. Lived there for one year in Albuquerque after military service. Best darn food and chilis in the whole country, and a great climate. First time I ever had a good burrito, chili rellenos, pork stew with chili, etc. And then there's the Sopapillas! Plus you are right about the diversity. People there just get along with each other for the most part. Would love to live there again, but my wife cannot tear herself away from her family.
I love NM - lived there for about 8 years. And you are correct. The food is the best
I also love New Mexico, the adobe buildings, food and genuine people. The scenery is beautiful and their flag is perfect.
We went to Carlsbad and took the elevator down and then hiked back up. We then made the mistake of hiking up Guadalupe Peak the next day. We are hikers, not mountain climbers, so it was pretty rough!
The Carlsbad / Guadalupe Peak / White Sands combo is a nice group of areas to chain together on a trip in that part of the country. Some of the views on Hwy 82 from Cloudcroft down to Alamogordo are pretty amazing.