Albuquerque had many sites for us to see. They are famous for their International Balloon Fiesta, held every early October. It is the biggest and best gathering of balloons anywhere on this planet. During this time, the clear desert skies are painted with a kaleidoscope of color as hundreds of balloons lift off. Because of Albuquerque's location, high Sandia Mountains in the east and ancient volcanic cones to the west, this creates an effect called the "box", where wind currents allow pilots to fly in any direction. The high-altitude desert location also gives it endless blue skies and great visibility. Although, we did not see any hot air balloons flying in the air, we did visit the Balloon Museum and saw the collections and programs highlighting the art, history and sport of ballooning. Andy even tried to land a balloon in a simulator, but unfortunately, he crashed! Two Albuquerque-native balloonists, were the first to cross the Atlantic Ocean in a gas balloon in 1978.
We also went to the Petroglyph National Monument, where there were opportunities for viewing petroglyphs (images created on rock) by hiking on some trails. This park is one of the largest petroglyph sites in North America with over 20,000 designs and symbols carved onto black volcanic boulders about 400-700 years ago. Some of these images are recognizable as animals, people, and crosses. Other images are mysterious. To the American Indians, this entire site is a sacred landscape.
After lunch, we walked the streets of Old Town Albuquerque, the city's original settlement founded in 1706. There are great shopping and galleries in Old Town Plaza, just like Santa Fe. It follows the traditional Spanish pattern of a central plaza and church surrounded by homes and businesses. The difference is there is a mix of Victorian and basic adobe architecture here. Andy and I did some shopping, and actually bought some souvenirs! Another great day!
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