The public, clothing-optional pool, is not for everyone and neither is the women’s pool. Relax in a spa or hot spring: If you want to soak in a Japanese-style hot tub, check out Ten Thousand Waves.It’s mostly a casual town, but many visitors (and locals) can be seen decked out in turquoise and silver and fabulous cowgirl boots. Even in the summer, evenings can be chilly and you’ll need a sweater. What to bring: When packing for Santa Fe, think layers.Since it’s sunny and dry (over 300 sunny days a year) you don’t get that bone-chilling cold that happens in places with humidity.
In winter, we can get warm days and even if it’s cold (unless it gets into the low 20s or the wind is blowing), it feels warmer than the thermometer leads you to believe. While it feels warmer than it does in humid places, come prepared for cold and snow. In winter people arrive not realizing that, yes, we do get a real winter. People are often surprised that it gets cold here. Expect an interesting climate: Santa Fe is not Phoenix.Trust me you will burn faster than you think. We are closer to the sun and the air is thin. Slather with a Capital S: Sunscreen and a hat are very important in Santa Fe.One drink here is the equivalent of two at sea level. And by the way, because of the altitude, alcohol affects you faster. Minimize coffee and alcohol consumption until you have acclimated to the high and dry. Spend your first day in our city acclimating. The Hotel Santa Fe, the city’s only native-owned hotel sometimes offers bargains and has shuttle service to the Plaza area as does the basic and budget Santa Fe Sage Inn. There are a few more moderate and budget options close to town but also check rates the on-line discounters are offering. It’s the area you will want to explore and dine in. Staying here: Pick lodging close to downtown.As a local let me share with you what I know about this city. Santa Fe is a perfectly comfortable place for solo women travelers and one that I recommend highly. The shopping here – everything from funky cowgirl boots to wonderful pieces of art – will make your heart sing.
Nicknamed The City Different, it offers world-class music and art and a sophisticated dining scene.
Santa Fe is a small, intimate city that offers way more than you probably expect from a city this size. A Local’s Tips on Sante Fe: Slow Down and Smell the Desert Flowers