For decades I've dreamt of owning a hot air balloon. Having gone up every chance offered, from Arizona to Myanmar, it's always a thrill.
Our wonderful friend's, the Stockers, live in Corrales, just on the edge of Albaquwrque. Every October the area hosts an international balloon festival. A perfect opportunity - a week of balloons night and day.
The fairgrounds host every unhealthy local food imaginable. Corn dogs anyone? Pins, hats and paraphernalia galore. As night falls, the special "night glow" festival sees emorphius shapes take form, rising to vertical positions and "glowing" as the propane heats air to complete the inflation. When completed - it's time for fireworks.
The next morning it's coffee at 7 and there are the gentle roar of fans in the next field next door. Coffee in hand, we go to investigate. Dozens of balloons inflated there, joining hundreds more in the sky.
Afterwards a drive to Cuba - the landlocked one in New Mexico. Retro signs, expansive landscapes - wonderfully typical southwest.
And then there's old town Albaquwrque. Adobe buildings and individual artisans surrounding the town square would remind you of Santa Fe 25 years ago.
Add a Mariachi Band and a local Mexican dance school - and you'll have a day that's unforgettable.
A week around balloons only inflated my interest. 30 hours of flying time to be licensed - I could do that. Easy! Now there's only the balloon, the basket, truck and chase team. Ok - one step at a time and maybe another visit next year.
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