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Awaken Your Senses in Santa Fe
 Founded in 1607 by Spanish explorers, Santa Fe is America’s oldest capital city. It is cradled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains at an altitude of 7,000 feet. Santa Fe offers both its residents and visitors a rich historical and cultural heritage. The city’s original name, “La Villa Real de Santa Fe de San Francisco de Asis,” translates to “the Royal City of the Holy Faith of St. Francis of Assisi.”
Reflecting its Spanish architectural roots, the city was designed around a traditional central plaza. The oldest buildings are made of adobe – a mixture of clay, mud, and straw baked in the sun. Much of Santa Fe’s modern architecture is designed in the Pueblo-revival style, which incorporates the adobe form.
 Among its many charms, Santa Fe is perhaps best known for its diverse art scene, as well as for its top-notch spa facilities. “Many people do not realize that Santa Fe is the third-largest art market in the country after New York and Los Angeles,” write HomeAway Homeowners, Marilyn and Jay Mitchell. “Another obscure fact: there are more massage therapists per capita in Santa Fe than anywhere else in America. Not surprisingly, this sets the stage for an awesome vacation!”
The epicenter of the Santa Fe art scene is only a short walk from the town center on Canyon Road. “There are over 80 art galleries on Canyon Road alone,” says HomeAway property owner, Michael Carroll. “It is a road known around the world as the most important art street in Santa Fe.” Adds HomeAway Homeowner, Maureen Hyde, “There is such a tremendous selection of art in Santa Fe that even if you are not looking for art, you will find plenty!”
 In addition to checking out Santa Fe’s many art galleries, don’t miss the Georgia O’Keefe Museum, the first museum in the U.S. dedicated to a single woman artist. In describing his HomeAway property, Scott Oury writes, “Our casita sits on a mesa with a view of Pedernal Mountain south, which Georgia O’Keefe painted often enough that she said God should give it to her…it was hers.”
Marilyn and Jay Mitchell share an insider's tip: “We always include a visit to the Nedra Matteucci Gallery to enjoy their outdoor sculpture garden, a beautiful space where bronze and stone sculptures co-exist in perfect harmony with ponds and waterfalls.”
A trip to Santa Fe is not complete without a visit to one of the city’s world-renowned spas. HomeAway property owners Jim and Lynn Pitts say, “If you miss the ocean while on vacation, try the 10,000 Waves Resort and Spa. It’s our choice for a relaxing evening massage and hot tub experience (clothing optional).”
 “What I can say about the Waves is that in my ten years as a massage therapist, I have never worked with such a great group of professional peers before," says HomeAway Homeowner, Patrick Coss, who is also a massage therapist at the 10,000 Waves. It’s a really wonderful place that allows people to relax and get away from it all in a beautiful mountain setting.”
HomeAway property owner, Margaret Schulz, recommends the Avanyu Spa. “I have been to several of the top spas in Santa Fe, and the one that is the best is the Avanyu at Las Posada Resort and spa. A well trained staff pampers you with everything you could possibly want,” she says.
Santa Fe offers many other world-class spas, museums and art galleries. Ultimately, whether you are spa going or gallery-hopping, Santa Fe has a welcoming, sunny and deeply spiritual vibe. “No matter what season,” writes Santa Fe resident, Pam Flesner, “you will find that the real charm of Santa Fe is the dramatic mix of cultures and the friendly folks that live there.”
Recommended Reading:
• Eleven Things You Should Know about Santa Fe
Before You Embarrass Yourself with the Locals.
• Read More Santa Fe and Taos Stories
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