New
Mexico has a very diverse mix of cultures- from ancient Native cultures
to the spicy blend of Hispanic and European traditions. New Mexico is full
of history and it all undfolds in the celebrated museums, legendary historic
sites, and majestic monuments with the help of the art, the soul and the
stories from long times past. Savor the best the West has to offer, whether
in the drama of the open plains, the fragrance of a piñon fire, the
lonely howl of the coyote, or in the magic of unrivaled theatre, opera and
dance.
Most
visitors traveling to New Mexico come to the large towns such as Albuquerque,
Santa Fe and Gallup and get a false sense of what the state is really like.
The whole state is not as rushed and hectic and these few larger towns.
Most New Mexicans have a very relaxed concept of time which is strange for
visitors coming in trying to see everything in just a few days. New Mexico
has a huge amount to offer if you just take the time to see it.
The
Land of Enchantment has many American Indian traditions. Enjoy there
beautiful culture but also respect their ways. If you are on Indian
land, you're in a sovereign nation so here's a few things to remember:
1.
If you'd like to take pictures, make sketches or use your video camera,
you must get a permit from the pueblo or tribal government. If you
fail to do this, your film or pad will be confiscated.
2.
While you're out exploring, if you stumble upon someone's home, please
don't go in without and invitation. On special feast days, you may
be invited in to eat but you're expected to eat and move along so
others can also enjoy the food.
3.
Indian dances and ceremonies are religious observances. They are
not performances. Keep quiet and respect their ways. Do not applaud
or talk with the dancers and make sure not to block any entry or exit
ways or stand in the arena.
4.
While exploring ruins, do not pick up any pottery shards or other
artifacts. Leave them there for others to enjoy.
5. Do not climb on ruins or go into kivas. 6. Do not bring drugs or alcohol onto Indian lands.
Just
remember that you are visiting someone else's home and their way of
life and you don't want to disturb that. Be friendly and respect the
American Indians and their cultures and enjoy the beauty of the Land
of Enchantment.
Most
visitors traveling to New Mexico come to the large towns such as Albuquerque,
Santa Fe and Gallup and get a false sense of what the state is really like.
The whole state is not as rushed and hectic and these few larger towns.
Most New Mexicans have a very relaxed concept of time which is strange for
visitors coming in trying to see everything in just a few days. New Mexico
has a huge amount to offer if you just take the time to see it.
