Today I’m sharing some highlights from my recent trip to New Mexico (hosted by the kind folks of the New Mexico Tourism board).

Even though I’ve done a good amount of traveling abroad, especially in Asia and Europe, it’s pretty embarrassing how few U.S. states I’ve visited. I think I can count them on two hands (California, New York, Texas, Kansas, Arizona, Washington, and Oregon). I’m making it more of a priority this year and I’d really love to explore more of our diverse country–especially after being inspired by New Mexico. The food, the nature, the turquoise jewelry–I loved it all so much. I’m saving White Sands for it’s very own post because it deserves it, but here are a few highlights from Santa Fe and Albuquerque.

10,000 Waves was our very first, completely unplanned stop in Santa Fe. It’s a Japanese-style spa recommended by my friend Emily. We had a few hours to kill before checking into The Lodge so we snuck into the spa for some zen time. It’s got hot mineraly tubs, cold dips, nap rooms and all the good relaxing stuff a spa should have. I only wish we had time for some of those yummy treatments.

That night, we had the most educational dinner at the Santa Fe School of Cooking. I love to nerd out on some food anthropology, so you know I loved learning about the medicinal qualities of chiles. The roasting activates the oils! While we were learning fun food facts, we also got to eat some regionally inspired fare, like this saffron poached pear with cajeta and chile. This was my favorite course of the night.

We stopped by The Pantry for “Christmas-style” breakfast, which just means red and green chile sauce smothered. Perfect for indecisive folks like me who want the freshness from the green AND the smokiness from the red. This looks like a lot of food (and it is!), but we shared it with Naomi from Baker’s Royale + family. Before leaving Santa Fe for Albuquerque, we hiked off our breakfasts at the Four Seasons.

We arrived at Los Poblanos with just enough time to explore the grounds before dinner. They have acres and acres of organic farms and lavender, so the whole place smells like aromatherapy. Mmm… So soothing. Even the peacocks that roam the grounds are super chilled out.

This blueberry lavender gelato was made with ingredients from the farm. It doesn’t get more local than that!

Next up we have Sadie’s! This place was iconic. From their award winning sauces to amazing food, I can see why everybody on Instagram was telling me to go there. Jim, the manager, shared his pro-tip with me by ordering the blue corn enchiladas with an egg on top. Try it!

And last but not least, we popped by Golden Crown Panderia. We came for lunch but stayed for the company! We had a great time chatting with the father and son team that run the this special place. The passion and commitment behind the food, sustainability and community really shines. If you come here, be sure to try the green chile pizza and the biscochitos.

And since I don’t want you to think I ate WHOLE time, here’s proof that I also went on a jewelry shopping excursion at Skip Maisel’s. Hog HEAVEN!