TAOS, NEW MEXICO, USA -- Taos, New Mexico, a casual yet somehow elegant destination has an allure that seduces visitors into what locals call its "vibe." That vibe has been attracting visitors, a disproportionate amount of them being creative types, for decades. Bert Phillips and Ernest Blumenschein founded the original Taos Society of Artists back in 1912 in what is now Doc Martin's restaurant (then the good doctor's living room - yes there really was a Doc Martin). The attraction is still there today and visitors will find an enormous array of art galleries and museums, set amongst breathtaking mountainous and desert back drops.

There is an intriguing mixing of cultures here - from the Native Americans who predate everyone on this land, to the ranchers who work the land, to the artists who settled here, to the rich and famous who come here to get way from it all. As such it's not unusual to see gorgeous homes next to run down ramshackle dwellings or mobile homes. But not to worry, there's lots of unspoiled beauty here, and a friendly community that exhibits tons of spirit (check the Taos Chamber of Commerce for lots of special events throughout he year).

With so much nature surrounding the town, there's lots to do to keep active folks happy all year round from hiking, rafting, skiing, golfing, fishing and more.

After a day outdoors or exploring you'll come back to the comfort of world class lodgings and great cuisine - even though this is a small town, many its residents and visitors have sophisticated tastes. It's the best of all possible worlds!

Practicalities

For more information about planning a visit to Taos, New Mexico contact the Taos Chamber of Commerce at 877-587-8915 or visit www.exploretaos.com.

Photos this page courtesy of the Taos Chamber of Commerce, photographers Susan Christie and Ken Gallard.

Cheri Sicard, in addition to being the editor of FabulousTravel.com and its sister site, Fabulous Foods.com is the author of The Great American Handbook: What You Can Do For Your Country Today and Every Day and The Low Carb Restaurant Guide, and the co-author of US Citizenship for Dummies. To learn more about Cheri, click here.